Since April 2018, Chiang Mai city now offers a new bus service that, at 20 THB per trip, easily beats the price of the tuk tuk and red songteow. In fact, it is such a bargain that locals, tourists and expats are all expected to use it.
Large, modern, wheelchair friendly, with air-con, free Wi-Fi and space for bicycle, the new CM Transit Bus is convenient and its staff are super friendly. Cash will not be used in this transportation service; however, a CM Transit Card can be bought for the price of 300 THB (200 THB deposit and 100THB for course). The price for each trip is 20THB, no matter the distance.
At the moment, their bus stops are not yet ready, but soon they will be and it will make everything much easier. Meanwhile, bus stops include: Chiang Mai Airport, One Nimman, Hillside 4 Condotel, opposite Central Kad Suan Kaew, Icon Square, Ford showroom at Chang Puak Gate, Yuparat School, 3 Kings Monuments, Money Museum, Thapae Gate, Sompet Market, Dk Book, CM Gate, Siam TV, Old Cultural Center and Central Airport Plaza.
CM Transit Bus starts at 6am and ends at 10.30 pm; they have a total of 11 buses and soon will add more routes.
You can download their application and check at anytime where are each bus: CM Transit by RTC.