How to Get to Doi Mae Salong from Chiang Rai: A Complete Travel Guide

One of the most common questions we get from visitors is: "How do I actually get to Doi Mae Salong?" It's a fair question — this mountain village isn't on the main tourist trail, and the journey involves some winding roads. But getting here is part of the experience, and once you arrive, you'll be glad you made the trip. Here's everything you need to know.

How to get to Doi Mae Salong by car or motorbike (the most popular option)

Most travelers reach Doi Mae Salong by car — either a rental, private driver, or their own vehicle. From Chiang Rai city or Mae Fah Luang – Chiang Rai International Airport, the drive takes approximately 1.5 hours. The route heads north toward Mae Chan district, and from there you'll turn onto Road 1130, the scenic mountain road that climbs up to Doi Mae Salong. This final stretch takes about 30 minutes and is where the views really begin.

The road is paved and in good condition, but it's winding with plenty of curves — so take it easy, especially if you're driving for the first time. If you're on a motorbike, the ride is beautiful but requires confidence on mountain roads. Go slow, stay alert on blind corners, and avoid driving after dark when visibility drops quickly.

A few driving tips worth knowing: fill up your fuel tank in Mae Chan before heading up, as petrol stations are limited on the mountain. If you're using GPS, search for "Doi Mae Salong" — most navigation apps will route you via Road 1130. And if you're heading to 101 Tea Green View, you'll find us right along the tea plantation road before reaching the village center.

By public transport (budget-friendly and doable)

If you prefer not to drive, public transport is available — it just requires a bit more planning. From Chiang Rai, take a bus from the Chiang Rai Bus Terminal to Mae Chan intersection. Buses run frequently throughout the day and the ride takes around 45 minutes.

From Mae Chan, look for the public shuttle pick-up cars on the main road near Mae Chan Market. These songthaews (shared pick-up trucks) run on a fixed schedule up and down the mountain:

Mae Chan to Mae Salong (going up): departures at 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Mae Salong to Mae Chan (going down): departures at 7:30 AM, 11:00 AM, and 3:00 PM. The cost is approximately 100 THB per person each way.

When you board, let the driver know where you're heading so they can drop you at the right spot. If you're coming straight to us, the drivers know 101 Tea Plantation (ไร่ชา 101 ดอยแม่สลอง) well. Just arrive at least 10–15 minutes before departure time — the trucks leave on schedule and won't wait.

Keep in mind that the shuttle schedule is limited, so plan your day around the available times — especially for the return trip. If you prefer more flexibility, you can also arrange a private car or taxi through your accommodation.

By private transfer or taxi

For a more comfortable and flexible option, private transfers can be arranged from Chiang Rai city, the airport, or even from Chiang Mai. Many accommodations on Doi Mae Salong, including 101 Tea Green View, can help coordinate a transfer for you. This is especially convenient if you're arriving late, travelling with luggage, or prefer a door-to-door experience.

Hiring a local driver for the day is also a popular choice — it gives you the freedom to stop along the way, visit Mae Chan's morning market, or take a detour to other Chiang Rai attractions before heading up.

What to expect on the road

The drive up Road 1130 is scenic and enjoyable — lush green hills, tea fields beginning to appear on the slopes, and cooler air as you gain elevation. In the cooler months, you might even hit a patch of fog near the top. It's the kind of road that tells you you're heading somewhere special.

Once you arrive, the pace changes completely. The mountain air, the quiet, and the tea-covered hills make the journey feel absolutely worth it.