Bangkok to Chang Mai
Train is the best way to travel between Bangkok and Chang Mai. There are several trains each day, including night trains starting from 400Baht and taking around 12 hours. There are lots of buses that also costing from 300Baht and taking 10 hours. Cheap flights are also available with AirAsia.
Train
Trains leave Hualamphong train station, a 60Baht taxi ride from Th Khao San Road. The overnight sleeper trains are the best option, as it's a long ride and you save a nights accommodation (820Baht). Food is available on the train all day. Chang Mai train station is 2km outside of town, and should cost 60Baht in a tuk-tuk, although bigger guesthouses will arrange collection.
Bus
Buses leave Th Khao San Road during the day and arrive at Chang Mai Arcade Bus station, taking 10 hours. Prices start at around 300Baht for a comfortable AC bus.