Best way from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
 

Does anyone have any advice in the best way to get to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai? Is it best to hire a driver or is there another way? Can any drivers in particular be recommended. How long would it take to drive? Thanks.

the direct drive is about 3 hours....how about renting your own car....the drive is not difficult it is reported

We did the opposite last year--flew to Chiang Rai and hired a driver to Chiang Mai. The drive was about 3-3 1/2 hours and cost about $60. We got the driver from our hotel. It will be no problem to get a driver from Chiang Mai, either through your hotel or a travel agency.

How was the drive? I keep reading about hairpin turns and scary roads. I'm a wuss. How was it?

We hired a driver and car from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai in December 2004. It's very easy, a few winding roads but nothing scary. My spouse is prone to motion sickness but she didn't have a problem. It's scenic too.

If your not sure about the driving, then fly. We did that and cost around 50 dollars one way.

Every guesthouse and hotel in town can arrange a minivan with about 6-8 people in it for $4-$10 one way.??!!!