By bus, it takes 9-10 hours to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. You have the option of taking an ordinary bus, an air-conditioned government bus, and air-conditioned private bus, or a special VIP 24 seat air conditioned bus.
The Arcade Terminal is the center for inter-province travel, with buses coming from and going to Bangkok as well as many other provinces. Tickets can be purchased at bus company offices, many which are located at the Anusarn Market and Food Center.
The Chang Phuak bus station on Chotana Road is the center for buses travelling to and from the different districts of Chiang Mai. The inter-disctricts buses leave continually all day, and tickets can normally be purchased immediately before departure.