Attribution: Nawit Science | Wikimedia Commons Source: Nawit Science | Wikimedia Commons
Chiang Mai, located in northern Thailand, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, perhaps second only to the capital city of Bangkok. The province is known for being a cool mountain town where hill tribes, lush rainforests, and elephant sanctuaries abound. Apart from its favorable landscape, Chiang Mai is also well-loved for its preserved cultural heritage perfectly depicted in its architectural structures, ancient temples, and carved houses.
As well-preserved as it is, don’t let Chiang Mai’s cultural appeal and ancient structures fool you. The province has modernized in many ways over the past years, expanding far beyond the historic Old City wall. Today, the province serves as a haven for backpackers and digital nomads looking to stay in unique accommodations, including boutique hotels.
If you’re looking to visit the province anytime soon, here are some of the best hotels to consider.
- Raya Heritage
Perched beside the majestic Ping River is Raya Heritage, a luxury hotel that offers a breathtaking retreat from the city, seamlessly blending traditional Thai aesthetics with contemporary elegance. As you step into this luxurious sanctuary, you are immediately thrown into a world of timeless beauty and serene tranquility coupled complemented by the region’s past character and simple charm.
The hotel’s architecture is a true homage to the region’s rich cultural heritage. Each structure within the property is meticulously crafted using locally sourced materials and traditional building techniques, reflecting the essence of Northern Thai design. The decor also features artisanal pieces, including handwoven textiles, baskets, and wood carvings.
Additionally, Raya Heritage features rooms with high ceilings and a light contemporary twist. Its most popular suites—Rin Terrance and Huen Bon—have verandas that open out to a river-facing private balcony, in addition to free private parking and free WiFi. There are also several indoor-outdoor living spaces that complement a number of outdoor pools.
Find out more about Raya Heritage here.
- Hotel Art Mai Gallery
Credit: Hotel Art Mai Gallery
Hotel Art Mai Gallery is perhaps one of the most unique hotel in Chiang Mai. Located in the trendy Nimmanhaemin District, this boutique hotel steps away from traditional Thai-style rooms and introduces patrons to luxury guest rooms decorated with the works of local artists.
In addition, guests who arrive at the hotel lobby will be greeted with an abundance of artwork on display for sale. Those pieces continue to the hotel’s six residential floors. Each floor is devoted to a certain theme.
- Second floor: Nude Art
- Third floor: Optical Art (Op Art)
- Fourth floor: Pop Art
- Fifth floor: Abstract Art
- Sixth floor: Surrealist Art
- Seventh floor: Impressionist Art
- Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort
Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort is a captivating retreat nestled in the heart of Chiang Mai that offers an idyllic haven for those seeking a truly romantic getaway. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and the serene Ping River, this charming resort blends traditional Thai elegance with modern comforts.
The resort is built around a century-old Rain Tree that serves as a backdrop to an outdoor swimming pool in the central courtyard.
There are only eight accommodation options at Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort, each featuring thoughtfully designed teak colonial-style housing to provide a luxurious and intimate experience. The resort takes conservation seriously. As such, all rooms are designed with sustainably sourced materials handcrafted by local artisans.
Find out more about Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort here.
- Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel and Spa
Welcome to Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel and Spa, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Chiang Mai that features a charming blend of Thai and Spanish influences, creating a captivating ambiance that will transport you to the province’s distinguished colonial period.
The hotel boasts 19 large rooms, each individually styled and decorated with carefully-selected, handcrafted furniture. The rooms are also adorned with oil paintings of the flowers they are named after. Additionally, the bathrooms in each of their rooms are equipped with a range of bath and beauty products from the hotel’s own Nakara Spa.
Find out more about Ping Nakara here.
- Tamarind Village
Tamarind Village is a secret refuge in Chaing Mai that is inspired by the tamarind trees surrounding the hotel, one of which is at least 200 years old. The resort is charming, made even more so by the ancient bamboo-lined lane going into and out of the property.
Tamarind Village has 41 intimately-styled guestrooms and five expansive suits. The rooms are all positioned around flower-filled courtyards, giving the space a relaxing atmosphere complemented by the interior’s contemporary design and terracotta tile flooring.
One of the resort’s draws is the Spa Suite, which is set in a spacious area with a marble bathtub and an outdoor shower. The suite also has a large private terrace with sun loungers and an unhindered view of the massive tamarind tree.
Other Chiang Mai Boutique Hotels To Consider
- Elliebum Boutique Hotel
- Anantara Chiang Mai Resort
- Amata Lanna Chiang Mai
- Villa Klang Wiang Hotel
- Rachamankha Hotel
