Cheap flights to Chiang Mai from across Australia

Chiang Mai is the kind of place you visit for a week and accidentally stay a month. Set up north in Thailand, it’s got chilled-out charm, jungle adventures, temples galore, and street food that’ll ruin you for anything back home. It’s cooler than Bangkok, cheaper than the islands, and you’ll still get your fill of mango sticky rice and Thai iced tea. Whether you’re here to recharge, explore, or snack your way through the night markets, Chiang Mai ticks all the boxes.

Flight time to Chiang Mai from Australia 

As there aren’t any direct flights to Chiang Mai from Australia, flight times are dependant on connections and the length of layovers. Here’s the minimum flight times from major cities that we’re seeing now.

• Sydney to Chiang Mai: 12 hours, 40 minutes (1 stop)
• Melbourne to Chiang Mai: 12 hours, 15 minutes (1 stop)
• Brisbane to Chiang Mai: 14 hours, 15 minutes (1 stop)
• Perth to Chiang Mai: 10 hours (1 stop)

Airlines flying direct to Chiang Mai

There are no direct flights to Chiang Mai from Oz, but there are plenty of solid one-stop options. Here are the ones worth checking out:

• Scoot: Budget-friendly, award-winning low-cost carrier. Good prices and a surprisingly comfy upgrade if you want a bit more legroom.
• Thai Airways: Thailand’s national carrier, with full-service, roomy seats, and that famous Thai hospitality from the moment you board.
• AirAsia: One of Asia’s best-known budget airlines. Great fares, lots of options, and they've taken out plenty of awards for low-cost travel.
• Cathay Pacific: Multiple-time Skytrax winner with consistently solid service. Think roomy cabins, decent food, and a premium feel.
• China Airlines: Rated one of the best in Greater China. Clean, reliable, and checked baggage is included.
• China Eastern: Big player in the region with competitive prices and decent in-flight comfort.
• EVA Air: Known for excellent service, comfy seating, and one of the world’s best premium economy cabins.
• Korean Air: Quality airline with modern aircraft, slick service, and consistently high ratings.
• Malaysia Airlines: Trusted option for Southeast Asia, with smooth service, hot meals, and a checked bag included.

Where you can fly to Chiang Mai from with these airlines

• Scoot: Sydney, Melbourne, Perth (via Singapore)
• Thai Airways: Sydney, Melbourne, Perth (via Bangkok)
• AirAsia: Sydney, Melbourne, Perth (via Kuala Lumpur)
• Cathay Pacific: Sydney (via Hong Kong)
• China Airlines: Sydney, Brisbane (via Taipei)
• China Eastern: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane (via Shanghai)
• EVA Air: Brisbane (via Taipei)
• Korean Air: Brisbane (via Seoul)
• Malaysia Airlines: Perth (via Kuala Lumpur)

Where is the airport in Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai International Airport is just 3 kms from the Old City, which sounds like you could walk it. But between the heat, traffic, and lack of footpaths, do yourself a favour and don’t. The easiest options are prepaid taxis, which you can arrange at counters in the arrivals hall. Grab is another solid option now that it has an official pickup point. Prefer to plan ahead? Book a private airport transfer for a stress-free arrival.

For a bit of local flavour, red songthaews (shared utes turned buses) are waiting just outside the terminal. Tuk-tuks are another shout if you’ve got light bags and want to lean into the Thailand experience. Tight budget? The airport bus is your cheapest bet; it’ll get you to most parts of town for loose change.

Cheapest time to fly to Chiang Mai

Flights to Chiang Mai are usually cheapest from January to March, with another dip in August. It’s a great time to visit if you want cooler weather, fewer crowds, and more cash left over for night market snacks.

Prices jump in December (hello, school holidays) and again in September, so unless you love spending more, best to steer clear of those months.

Passport and visa requirements when flying to Chiang Mai

Aussies can stay in Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa. Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months. Just make sure to fill out the free Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before you fly. Need a visa? Apply online through the official Thai E-Visa site.

Flights sorted? Don’t forget to book your Chiang Mai hotel, car hire or activity with Traveloka.