Chiang Mai Transport

Chiang Mai is tourist-orientated, and is therefore relatively easy to get around. Three-wheeled tuk-tuk are usually the quickest means of transport, while songtaew is another novel way to travel. Chiang Mai’s bus service is limited, and it is perhaps easier to catch a taxi. Motorcycle and car rental agencies are also available, though traffic can be heavy. Bicycles are another good way to explore Chiang Mai and these can be hired in the Old City.

By bus

Buses in Chiang Mai were officially cancelled in 1997, and despite the five-route and flat fare service that began operation in November 2005, songtaew are the primary mode of public transportation in the city. These are small, red, pick up trucks with benches fitted along the side that have no fixed route. They pick up and drop off passengers in the same way that buses do, need to be flagged down and they cover all routes in Chiang Mai, but are hard to find after midnight. Since most of the drivers do not speak English, it is recommended that you ask your hotel concierge to write your destination in Thai for you before your departure.

Taxis

Chiang Mai did not use to have a metered taxi service, but Bangkok-style metered taxis have finally been introduced. In early 2005, there were a mere 15 of them (versus 2,700 songthaew) plying the streets, but just a year later, there were over 45, with the number growing monthly. Phone: +66 53 279 291 for advance bookings.

Tourist services

For sightseeing tours of Chiang Mai, mountain biking across the beautiful landscape surrounding the city or whitewater rafting through the jungle and along the Mae Tang River, you might want to go on an organised trip booked through a travel agent, or opt to do the sights on your own. Trekking in the mountains of Chiang Dao and Chiang Mai, you’ll encounter caves, waterfalls, elephant centres, national parks, hill tribes, bamboo rafting and much more. Chiang Dao Nest Tours and Trekking (phone: +66 53 456 242) offers different packages from half-day to three-day treks. If you want to see Chiang Mai from a new angle, Chiang Mai Sky Adventure (phone: +66 53 868 646) might be just what you are looking for.

From the airport

There are several kinds of transportation service provided for passengers such as limousine and car rental service. Visitors can make enquiries at the counters on the ground floor, opposite the domestic and international Arrivals lounge. Legal airport taxis charge a flat fee for up to five passengers; metered taxis usually come to less. Taxis operate from the exit at the north end of the terminal. Alternatively, take bus number 4 to the city centre, or charter a tuk-tuk or songthaew. Most hotels and guesthouses also offer cheap or free pick-up and drop-off services.

Airport facilities

Although Chiang Mai Airport is small, it has a full range of facilities on offer. There are exchange bureaux offering reasonable rates, with ATMs also on hand. The airport has several food outlets including two coffee shops, a deli and a fast-food outlet. There are also a number of small shops selling silk, handicrafts, fresh produce and souvenirs. On the mezzanine level, you will find a bookshop selling English-language books and magazines. Within the Departures lounge, there are additional food and merchandise shops, and a large screen television.