Next weekend I am planning on driving to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai.

On google maps it seems to be taking me on an unnecessary detour (screenshot attached).

Is that necessary? And if so, why?

Also, very open to suggestions on places to stop on the way there.

Thanks. (First post)

I've taken 118 many times. It's the best route as far as I'm concerned.

People like to stop here for pie: Charin Garden Resort

Welcome to the forum and welcome to Chiang Rai!

Hope this doesn't sound weird, but make sure to check out the "bird zoo" out front. Its actually pretty cool.

I've taken 118 many times. It's the best route as far as I'm concerned.

People like to stop here for pie: Charin Garden Resort

Welcome to the forum and welcome to Chiang Rai!

The road is cut through the mountains and also serves the major towns between CM and CR so it tends to take quite a few twists and turns, you will see this on your drive.

The first time I drove from CM to CR I really underestimated the time it would take. Lots of twists and turns, quite a low speed road. Allow more time than you estimate.

I can't explain the dip in the route on the 118 on your screenshot.

I went through early Feb with no detour at all- perhaps another member (or Google maps) can explain this diversion.

Your relying on the Internet for directions instead of buying a road map?

Edited March 9, 201214 yr by Johpa

Looking closely at my detailed road map, and the "dip" off the 118 on your Google map screen shot....I would say it is a glitch on Google's part.

My best advice is just get on the 118 and go.

That is just a flaw in Google Maps. Just get on the 118 and follow it to the end and turn left toward Chiang Rai. The signage is good so just follow the signs. It is roughly a two hour drive from the edge of CM to the edge of CR.

Stay on 118. Ignore the google detour around doi saket

Right before Doi Saket top up you gas tank

Keep an eye out for songtaws in the oncoming lane ;-)

I've taken 118 many times. It's the best route as far as I'm concerned.

People like to stop here for pie: Charin Garden Resort

Welcome to the forum and welcome to Chiang Rai!

Is it right on the 118 past the Mae Suai turn off?

Your relying on the Internet for directions instead of buying a road map?

You believe a roadmap in Thailand will be more up to date than the internet? That said, yes I think you can ignore that U bend at the Chiang Mai end that takes you off the 118 and back on again...

Anyway, fwiw, I've driven two routes more than once (107 & 118). Personally I prefer the 107 but that's only because I have a 50km head start from Mae Taeng. The 118 does have a lot fewer twists and turns than the 107 mind you. It's a comfortable 3 hours from Mae Taeng to Mae Sai on the 107, or 3 hours from Chiang Mai to Mae Sai on the 118.

Edit: Oops you wanted to go to CR not Mae Sai... Then yes the 118 is definitely best for you. Ignore the 107 unless you like twisty roads and mountains or fancy a stop off at Chiang Dao caves...

Edited March 9, 201214 yr by bobl

I've taken 118 many times. It's the best route as far as I'm concerned.

People like to stop here for pie: Charin Garden Resort

Welcome to the forum and welcome to Chiang Rai!

Is it right on the 118 past the Mae Suai turn off?

I think it's near KM marker #142.

Stay on 118. Ignore the google detour around doi saket

Just follow the Green Bus from Arcade busstation, can't get lost.