Chiang Mai, nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand, offers a captivating blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it a popular starting point for exploring the country. Bangkok, Thailand's vibrant capital, is a destination rich in history, culture, and bustling city life. It boasts iconic landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, a vibrant culinary scene, and incredible shopping opportunities. The fastest way to travel between these two cities is by air, offering a convenient and efficient journey. Direct flights typically take around 1 hour, although this can vary depending on weather conditions and air traffic. Several major airlines offer these direct routes, ensuring a good flight frequency. For instance, AirAsia and Thai Airways operate multiple direct flights daily, making it easy to find a convenient schedule. While direct flights are the most common and time-efficient option, alternative flight paths with stopovers may sometimes be more cost-effective, especially for budget travellers. If you're flexible with your dates, booking your flight during the off-peak months can lead to significant savings. Typically, the cheapest months to fly are during the shoulder seasons or the rainy season, often from July to September and October. Booking your flight well in advance will also improve your chances of finding the best deals. For this route, the peak season is during November to February, which may result in higher costs and more crowds, while the off-peak season falls between July and October. You may find the best deals and quietest time to fly during those periods.

Bangkok has a tropical climate, meaning it's hot and humid throughout the year. The best time to visit is during the cool season, from November to February. During these months, temperatures range from 22°C to 31°C, with low humidity and little rainfall. It's ideal for sightseeing. From March to May, temperatures can soar above 35°C with high humidity, making it less comfortable for outdoor activities. The rainy season, from May to October, sees heavy rainfall, though it's often in short bursts. While the temperatures drop in the rainy season, the humidity goes up significantly.

There are two main airports currently operating in Chiang Mai that cater to commercial flights.

Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)

Chiang Mai International Airport is the primary airport serving the city. It's a modern airport with good facilities and handles a large number of both domestic and international flights. It serves as a major hub for several airlines.

Other airports

There may be smaller, regional airports in the region surrounding Chiang Mai, but these are unlikely to offer flights to Bangkok.

Main airlines for this route

• Thai Airways
• AirAsia
• Bangkok Airways

Bangkok has three major international airports that serve commercial flights.

Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)

Suvarnabhumi Airport is the main international airport serving Bangkok. Opened in 2006, it's a large, modern airport with multiple terminals, and is a major hub for various airlines. To reach the city centre, you can use the Airport Rail Link, taxis, or private car services.

Don Mueang International Airport (DMK)

Don Mueang International Airport is another significant airport in Bangkok. It handles both domestic and international flights, offering an alternative to Suvarnabhumi. Similar transport options are available to reach the city centre from Don Mueang, including the Airport Rail Link, taxis and car hire.

Other airports

There might be smaller airports within the greater Bangkok Metropolitan Area, however these airports are unlikely to offer frequent international connections.

Bangkok offers a myriad of experiences for every kind of traveller. From ancient temples to bustling markets, the city is packed with incredible sights and activities.

• Visit the Grand Palace: Explore the opulent former residence of the Thai monarchs, featuring stunning architecture and intricate details.
• Explore Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn): Marvel at the iconic central prang, a towering structure adorned with porcelain.
• Take a boat trip along the Chao Phraya River: Enjoy the unique perspective of the city from the water, passing by temples and historical sites.