Chiang Mai to Sukhothai tickets

About the ride from Chiang Mai to Sukhothai

Chiang Mai is an essential spot on the northern Thailand route. Whether you’re backpacking for months or visiting for a week, this mountainous city is a must-see for all travelers. 

However, it’s not the only ancient city that should be on your list! Let’s travel south to Sukhothai, another iconic city known for its historical sites, excellent museums, and mouth-watering street eats. 

The distance between Chiang Mai and Sukhothai is approximately 322 km (200 miles). Depending on your ride, the journey can take anywhere from 4.5 to 6 hours. The main ways to bridge the gap include buses, cars, and minivans, but we’ll give you the lowdown on each below. 

Are you ready to eat the tastiest bites while admiring one of Thailand’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage sites? Keep reading to get in the know ASAP.

Five places to explore in Sukhothai 

Sukhothai isn’t your average city. It was the capital of Siam in the 13th century. Founded by King Ramkhamhaeng, it’s the center of Thai civilization, home to awe-inspiring architecture and the birthplace of traditional art styles.

Whether you have a whole week or a few days in Sukhothai, these iconic sites should be on your to-do list:

1. The Ramkhamhaeng National Museum: Even if you’re not a museum buff, visiting this museum should be one of your first stops. It sets the scene for Sukhothai’s history and gives the context for many historical sites. You’ll understand more about the city after visiting this spot.

2. Wat Traphang Thong: This stunning temple is right next to the museum above. It sits in the middle of a moat, making it great for Instagram snaps!

3. Wat Maha That: Another gorgeous temple, Wat Maha That sits within the Sukhothai Historical Park. You’ll want at least half a day to see this area. Visit early in the morning to skip the crowds.

4. Wat Si Sawai: Also within the historical park, this Khmer-era temple features intricate brickwork and dates back to the late 12th century.

5. Wat Traphang Thong Market: Sightseeing is hungry work. Taste the freshest street food from local chefs at this market. 

Pro tip: Apply mosquito repellant before you enter. This market can be a hotspot for biters!

Is Sukhothai the same as Ayutthaya?

Sukhothai and Ayutthaya are two ancient cities in Thailand. Sukhothai is approximately 400 km (248 miles) further north than Ayutthaya. Also, Sukhothai’s history is a bit older, yet its temples and sites are in better condition.

How to get from Chiang Mai to Sukhothai

The main ways to jump from Chiang Mai to Sukhothai are buses, cars, and minivans. Here’s what sets each apart:

By bus

Buses to Sukhothai are the cheapest way to arrive. Prices start at $8 per person, so you can travel without breaking the bank. 

Buses typically take five to six hours to arrive, depending on your pick-up and drop-off locations. Most buses leave from Chiang Mai Arcade 2 and arrive at bus stops in central Sukhothai, such as Amphoe Si Samrong or Tambon Mueang Kao, but pay attention to the details when booking.

Amenities you can expect on buses include A/C, individual seats, and large luggage storage.

Pro tip: Toilet stops aren’t guaranteed. Use the WCs at the bus station before you leave.

By private car

Private cars from Chiang Mai start at $128 per vehicle hire. This might initially sound expensive, but you can split the cost between your group. For example, a $128 fee between three guests equals $42 each for a private ride.

Private cars come with a range of amenities, such as:

A/C

Large luggage (usually up to 25 kg each)

Toilet stops

English-speaking staff

Another perk of private cars is that they provide hotel pick-ups and drop-offs. You won’t need to navigate to and from bus stations with a private driver on your side! Additionally, you can set the departure time. 

Most cars allow two to four passengers and take 4.5 hours to arrive.

By private minivan

Private minivans begin at $169 per booking. Again, this seems very expensive for one journey. But minivans can carry up to eight or nine passengers. With eight others, $169 suddenly becomes $22 each.

Minivans are ideal if you are traveling in a larger group or want more space than a car. 

Most minivans offer A/C, large luggage storage, toilet stops, and English-speaking staff. They also provide hotel pick-ups and drop-offs.

The average minivan journey time is 4.5 to 6 hours, depending on your pick-up and drop-off points. As with the car, you get to choose your pick-up time.

More details about the trip from Chiang Mai to Sukhothai

The ride from Chiang Mai to Sukhothai takes you 322 km (200 miles) southeast through northern Thailand. 

On the way, you’ll pass through the countryside, which gives you an unparalleled glimpse into the daily Thai lifestyle. 

You may also pass a few national parks, such as the Mae Wa National Park or the Si Satchanalai National Park. Expect verdant green views and mountain landscapes.

The journey to Sukhothai is a popular and safe one. It’s frequently traveled by passengers of all nationalities, genders, and ages. 

The best time to travel from Chiang Mai to Sukhothai

November to March has the sunniest weather and the least rain, with temperatures above 30°C/86°F. The hottest months are February and March when temperatures can reach up to 38°C/100°F. 

It isn’t cold from April to September — far from it — the temperature remains around 32 to 35°C (89 to 95°F). It’s the amount of rainfall that makes it a less desirable time to visit. At least 200 mm (8 inches) of rain falls monthly during this period.

August and September are the wettest months, with around 350 mm (14 inches) each.

Where to visit after Sukhothai?

If you have plenty of time to continue exploring after Sukhothai, consider a few days in Tak. 

Tak is a city and province in northern Thailand, right by the border of Myanmar. Here, you can see a less touristic slice of Thailand, meander through stunning pristine forestland, and admire majestic waterfalls. Sukhothai to Tak takes just under four hours by bus.