Minivans leave Chiang Mai’s Arcade bus station roughly hourly during the day and take about three hours to cover the 130 km, with a rest stop halfway. Seats sell out in high season, so book at least a day ahead. Private cars cost more but can stop at viewpoints and let you set the pace on the bends.
Mae Hong Son has a small airport with a limited number of flights from Chiang Mai, and is linked to Pai by minivan in around two and a half to three hours. Many people travel the whole Mae Hong Son Loop — Chiang Mai, Pai, Mae Hong Son, Mae Sariang and back, about 600 km — over four to six days by rented car or motorbike.
Routes at a glance
| From | Best route | Time | Approx. cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chiang Mai | Minivan from Arcade bus station | About 3 hours | Around 200–250 THB |
| Chiang Mai | Private car transfer | About 3 hours, more with stops | Priced per vehicle |
| Chiang Mai Airport | Taxi to Arcade station, then minivan | About 4 hours in total | Around 400 THB |
| Mae Hong Son | Minivan via Soppong | About 2.5–3 hours | Around 150–250 THB |
| Chiang Rai | Bus to Chiang Mai, then minivan | About 7 hours | Around 450–600 THB |
| Bangkok | Flight or train to Chiang Mai, then minivan | Half a day at least | Varies |
Getting around Pai & Mae Hong Son
Pai town is walkable in ten minutes. For the valley, bicycles work for nearby sights, and shared tours or hired drivers for the rest. Scooters are everywhere, and so are bandaged travellers: the roads are steep, gravel-strewn and unforgiving. Ride only if you are licensed and experienced, and always wear a helmet.
