Getting around Chiang Rai - Car Rentals, Buses and Taxis, Chiang Rai Transportation

Public transport consists mainly of tuk-tuks and songthaews, plus a smaller number of taxis. The city itself can be explored on foot, but for trips into the province consider renting a car or a motorbike. Budget and Avis both have offices in Chiang Rai and there are several local agencies. If you don't feel up to driving in what may be a very different environment, then consider hiring a car with driver - it doesn't cost much more.

A motorbike is a good way to see these parts; there are several trails and a 250cc dirt bike is a great way to see the country side. However be aware that many of the mountain roads are narrow and winding and that Thailand has one of the highest rates of motorcycle accidents in the world. Stay alert.

By Airport Transfers :

As the airport is quite close to town most city hotels offer free shuttle services to and from the airport. However do ask specifically for charges involved before ordering hotel transportation.

By Tuk-tuk :

Chiang Rai transport offers Tuk-tuks or samlors that are three wheeled carts, and are a popular option for travelling inside Chiang Rai. Samlors are quite noisy but are not very powerful. So, uphill rides are not possible in samlors. Use your negotiating skills to agree upon a fare before you get onto a tuk-tuk.

By Pedalo :

Pedalos are three wheeled bicycles that are a common form of transport in Chiang Rai. The fare charged is almost the same as that for a tuk-tuk. So just hop on to whichever one you find first.

By Motorcycle :

Renting motorcycles is also a good way of being mobile in Chaing Rai. Make sure you are carrying your driving license and wearing a helmet.

By Car :

Car rental agencies are aplenty in Chiang Rai. You will even find branches of international chains like Avis, National and Budget. Though driving in Chiang Rai is not very difficult, hiring a driver along with the car will ensure that you have a more restful holiday. There are police check points near the border on the northern side, so a local driver will be helpful in crossing these points.