Each hotel featured here has been handpicked by our dedicated team of travel aficionados and hotel enthusiasts. We've personally journeyed to and experienced each place firsthand.
Read more about how we curate our guides here.
Villa Mahabhirom
Chiang Mai
From the moment you step foot onto the resort, you'll be swept away by the peaceful and serene atmosphere. The lush gardens, the pretty pool and traditional Thai decor provide a sense of tranquility that is hard to find anywhere else. Each of the 14 suites and villas is beautifully decorated with handcrafted furnishings and intricate details that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Thailand. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with all the amenities you need to make your stay as relaxing as possible.
Katiliya Mountain Resort
Mae Chan District
Katiliya Mountain Resort is a luxurious retreat situated amidst the picturesque hills north of Chiang Rai area. The all-suite resort boasts stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lush vegetation, providing guests with a tranquil and scenic environment for relaxation and rejuvenation. Quietly secluded, yet conveniently equidistant between the city of Chiang Rai, Mae Sai and Doi Mae Salong, Katiliya's grand villas and suites preside over a spellbinding landscape of lush green valleys, mountain lakes and endless forest-covered hills.
Le Méridien Chiang Mai
Chiang Rai
Le Méridien is considered one of the best 5-star hotels within Chiang Rai. The resort boasts 159 spacious and elegantly designed guest rooms, each featuring modern amenities and great views of the surrounding landscape. The resort's location on the banks of the Kok River provides easy access to the region's many natural attractions, such as the famous White Temple and the Golden Triangle. The resort's commitment to sustainability has earned it the Green Hotel Award from the Thai government.
Four Seasons Chiang Mai
Mae Rim
The Four Seasons Chiang Mai boasts stunning natural surroundings and a serene ambiance that provides a perfect escape from the bustling city life. The resort's architecture and design blend seamlessly with the local culture, creating a harmonious and authentic atmosphere.
All Rooms and suites are spacious, well-appointed and exude elegance, decorated with traditional Thai elements and offers modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The private outdoor balconies or terraces with lovely views of the tropical gardens or rice paddies adding to the overall sense of tranquility. The resort features an array of dining options,from Thai specialties to international cuisine. Don't miss their traditional Afternoomn Tea. All wellness facilities are top-notch, with a well-equipped fitness center, a beautiful spa and two stunning infinity-edge pools overlooking the tranquil rice terrace. Various recreational activities are on offer, such as yoga classes, cooking demonstrations and guided nature walks.
Ban Nam Phrae
Nestled within a Lanna Colonial style residence, Sela immerses guests in a serene ambiance where exquisite Indo-China interior decorations seamlessly blend with the tranquil forests and scenic mountain vistas. Every aspect of Sela, from its location to its layout, architecture, interior design, and curated items, exudes a profound sense of inspiration. This remarkable "house" pays homage to its multicultural history, embraces the alluring charm of the Hang Dong region, and showcases the abundant craftsmanship of Chiangmai in a meaningful and sustainable manner. Within Sela's premises, 14 uniquely designed rooms and suites eagerly await travelers, offering them an opportunity to embark on their personal journey of discovery.
Anantara Elephant Camp & Resort
Golden Triangle
Nestled among breathtaking landscapes, this resort offers a captivating blend of luxury accommodation and immersive elephant experiences, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and animal lovers alike. The resort's accommodations are beautifully designed, showcasing a seamless integration of traditional Thai elements with modern comforts. Guests can choose from a range of options, including spacious rooms and luxurious suites, all adorned with elegant furnishings and offering stunning views of the surrounding nature. At the heart of the resort lies the Elephant Camp, where guests have the opportunity to interact with these magnificent creatures in a responsible and ethical manner. In addition to this elephant experiences, this Anantara offers a range of activities like exploring the nearby forests on guided nature walks, embarking on a river cruise or taking part in Thai cooking classes.
Rachamankha Boutique Hotel
Chiang Mai
Enveloped within a series of charming courtyards, Rachamankha pays homage to Chiang Mai's rich heritage by crafting a secluded sanctuary. Step inside and be captivated by the interior adorned with pristine white walls, delicate silks, bare floors and a remarkable assortment of Asian artwork and ancient artifacts. Rachamankha is the personal project of interior designer and owner Rooj Changtrakul and his step-father, the award-winning Thai architect Ong-ard Satrabhandu. Indulge in the delights of a captivating 20-meter pool adorned with enchanting turquoise tiles, embraced by terracotta surroundings. Lounge upon plush day-beds nestled beneath the comforting shade of umbrellas, offering the epitome of relaxation and serenity.
Chiang Mai
Raya Heritage draws inspiration from the Lanna culture of olden times, presenting a modern interpretation of traditional Thai design. The resort is adorned with a unique collection of handcrafted furniture, artifacts, and accessories, meticulously curated from local artisans, that showcase the beauty of Thai craftsmanship. Raya Heritage features 38 roomy suites spread across three levels and surrounded by lush gardens, all conveniently located just a few steps away from the tranquil Ping River. The resort's tranquil ambiance provides a serene getaway, perfect for exploring the area's distinctive attractions at a leisurely pace. The hotel is approximately 20 minutes away from the historical center of the city, with a complimentary shuttle service provided.
137 Pillars House
Chiang Mai
Nestled in the Wat Gate district, this lovely boutique hotel is the perfect retreat for those seeking a combination of traditional Thai charm and contemporary elegance. The hotel is built around the original colonial teak homestead which dates back to the late 1800’s and served as the headquarters for the Borneo Company. It boasts a delightful fusion of historic elements and sleek modern design, complemented by exquisite dining, a stunning spa and a dramatic 25m lap pool flanked by a vertical plant wall.
Each of the 30 luxurious suites at 137 Pillars House offers generous space, a private veranda or patio, comfortable four-poster beds, indoor and outdoor showers, dual washbasins and stylish Victorian bath tubs. The prime location makes it ideal for exploring local markets and visiting nearby temples.
Golden Triangle
The Four Seasons Tented Camp is one of the most luxurious and exclusive hotels of Asia (if not the world), sitting in the heart of the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. The camp is designed to provide guests with an immersive experience in the region's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
It features 15 spacious and beautifully designed tents, each with its own private balcony and stunning views of the surrounding jungle and mountains. The tents are equipped with modern amenities and luxurious furnishings, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Guests can interact with elephants, learn to cook traditional Thai dishes or participate in a Buddhist almsgiving ceremony.
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Northern Thailand! Nestled in the lush mountains and surrounded by pristine forests, this region is a true gem of Southeast Asia. From the ancient temples and stunning landscapes of Chiang Mai to the stunning scenery of the Golden Triangle, Northern Thailand offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility. Immerse yourself in the local way of life and explore the vibrant markets and bustling streets of Chiang Rai, or escape to the serene countryside and relax in a hillside village. With a rich history and diverse mix of cultures, Northern Thailand is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience.
Northern Thailand can be visited year-round. The region has a tropical monsoon climate, experiencing different weather patterns throughout the year. For those looking to escape the heat and enjoy cooler temperatures, the best time to visit is from November to February. During this time, temperatures are comfortable and there is less rainfall, making it a great time for outdoor activities such as trekking and exploring the region's natural beauty. For those interested in witnessing the vibrant culture and festivals of Northern Thailand, the best time is from February to Apri, when the region is celebrating its traditional New Year, known as Songkran, and you can enjoy street parties, water fights, and other festivities. If you're looking to avoid the crowds, travel between May and October, when temperatures are higher and there is more rainfall. However, this is also the time when the rice fields are at their most lush and vibrant, making it a great time to explore the countryside.
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Elephant riding is still a popular tourist activity in Thailand that involves riding on the back of an elephant as it walks through the jungle or other scenic areas. While it can feel like an exciting and memorable experience, it's important to note that many animal welfare organizations and conservationists consider elephant riding to be unethical and harmful to the animals. The weight of the saddle and passengers can cause physical discomfort and long-term health issues for the elephants.
In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the negative impact of elephant riding. Visitors are encouraged to participate in ethical elephant experiences, such as visiting elephant sanctuaries or conservation centers that provide a safe and natural environment for elephants to live in. It's important to research the company thoroughly and choose a responsible tourism provider that prioritizes the welfare of the elephants.
Many nationalities are eligible for a visa exemption or visa on arrival when visiting Thailand for tourism purposes. Under the visa exemption scheme, travelers can enter Thailand without a visa for a stay of up to 30 days if they arrive by air and up to 15 days if they arrive overland. The exact duration and conditions can vary by nationality.
The visa on arrival allows eligible nationalities to obtain a visa at certain Thai airports or border crossings, usually for a stay of up to 15 days. If you plan to stay longer, or your nationality is not eligible for visa exemption or visa on arrival, or if you're visiting for purposes other than tourism (like work or business), you'll likely need to apply for the appropriate visa in advance at a Thai embassy or consulate.
Overstaying your visa in Thailand can result in fines and potential bans from re-entering the country. Visa regulations and policies can change, so it's crucial to check the most recent guidelines from official sources or the Thai embassy or consulate nearest you before your trip.
Northern Thailand is a haven for luxury travelers seeking captivating experiences that blend natural wonders, cultural immersion, and refined comforts. Whether you find solace in serene landscapes, revel in cultural encounters, or indulge in culinary delights, this region will leave an indelible mark on your soul. Prepare to be captivated by the enchanting charms of Northern Thailand.