Getting to Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai's modest size makes it can excellent first stop destination in Thailand. Direct flights only come from Munich, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Kunming, Mandalay via Yangon (Rangoon), Singapore and Vientiane. If coming from other destinations, ask your travel agent to make reservations on the 50 minute domestic flight to Chiang Mai from Bangkok International Airport. Chiang Mai Airport is 15-20 minutes journey from downtown Chiang Mai. (200 Baht by taxi).

Airlines (Bangkok to Chiang Mai)

Several Airlines fly several times a day to Chiang Mai from Bangkok Domestic Airport, some at very low prices. There is a Shuttle Bus from Bankok International Airport to Domestic in front of the terminals, or you can use the 500 meters walkway.

Bangkok Airways
One Two Go by Orient Thai
Nok Air
Thai Air Asia
Thai Airways

Trains and Buses

Book railway tickets for Thailand

Bus and Train schedules.

Currency, Telephone and Time

The Thai currency is the Baht, which comes in 1, 5 and 10 Baht nickel alloy coins. Small brass alloy coins are worth a quarter of a Baht and half a Baht. Notes are in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 Baht. A simple rule of thumb for measuring prices is 40 Baht. = 1 US dollar. The in-country telephone area code for Chiang Mai is 053. If calling from abroad, dial 66 (Thailand country code), then  53 and then the six digit number. Local time is seven hours ahead of GMT.

Credit Cards

Many places accept American Express, Diner's Club and ICB; however, Master and Visa have the widest acceptance. You may draw cash with Master and Visa credit cards from any Bangkok Bank or Thai Farmer's Bank ATM machine using your PIN.

Bangkok Bank machines also accept Diner's Club cards. Use an exchange booth if the ATM machine does not function with your card. Many shops will levy a 3-5% surcharge if you pay by credit card. Though nearly all businesses are honest, it is best to keep your card in sight when you use it.

Banking & Business

Banking hours are from 8:30-15:30, Monday- Friday. Foreign exchange booths run by major banks operate on Thapae Road and at the airport until 20:00, and in the Night Bazaar area on Chang Khlan Road until 22:00.
Government Office hours are from 08:30-12:30, 13:30-16:30. On weekdays.
Offices are closed at weekends and national holidays.