Best hotels in Chiang Mai

If sweet, sweet chocolate therapy, tai chi on the lawns and peaceful river views are your idea of a retreat, then this is the resort for you. Anantara gives the disarming impression that it's far from the well-walked streets of Chiang Mai but it happens to be in easy reach of revered temples and downtown markets. Make the most of this choice locale with a ride on the resort's river boat, sipping on champagne as you drift past quaint Thai homes and spice gardens. Par for the course in this ancient city, Anantara has quite the backstory as the former British Consulate. Trust us, the hotel pays homage in rather original ways!

Down the road from the time-worn temples and lofty pagodas of the Old City, this hotel sits behind walls of greenery that keeps the buzz out. Named after the 200-year-old tamarind tree at its centre, a tunnel of arched bamboo leads from the outside world to fragrant foot baths, jasmine garland-making and a restaurant that draws patrons from miles away. When you're ready to extract yourself from the comforts of Tamarind Village, the head-turning sights of Chiang Mai beckon. The city's plethora of shrines, museums and markets are in walking (or cycling) distance. In the company of snazzy resorts, Tamarind is a timeless classic.

Sitting beneath the dangling boughs of a 100-year-old rain tree beside the serene Ping River, Na Nirand Retreat captures the charm and whimsy of Chiang Mai. The entire hotel was constructed with Chiang Mai's heritage in mind and aims to preserve the authentic knowledge of its people, evidence of which you'll see throughout the hotel. Built in a Colonial-Lanna style, the rooms feature beautiful textiles, teak pieces and original art, all the handy work of local artisans. Bicycles are always ready and waiting whenever you feel like exploring more of the city, its historic sites, and ornate temples.

The Rim Resort is a boutique resort built in Lanna-Burmese style which is located in the old city along the fascinating canal in the Chiang Mai historical ramparts and moats. An old Colonial Thai Lue house stands elegantly in the center of the resort where a welcome lounge is surrounded by an outdoor swimming pool, a tropical garden, a restaurant and a bar. Other services include free Wifi and small gym onsite. Its 36 luxurious guestrooms are well-equipped with facilities and amenities including private balcony and flat screen TV.

Rimping Village is boutique hotel in Chiang Mai, located in the peaceful and leafy Wat Gate community on the east side of the Ping River. Built in 2005, the hotel near Chiang Mai night market, was designed to blend with its surroundings and to pay homage to the history of the community which centers around the ornate temple. This relaxing hotel in Chiang Mai is a nature lover's paradise home to beautiful gardens and mature trees that beckon you to sit outdoors on the shady terrace. Unwind at the refreshing saltwater swimming pool where loungers and a wonderful lush view are waiting. Grab a book from the lobby, catch up on some emails at the computer corner or enjoy a scenic ride around the neighbourhood with the hotel's complimentary bicycles. Despite feeling like a world away, you are only a short 10 to 15-minute walk to the bustling Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, and a 25 to 30-minute walk to Thapae Gate at the Old Town.

Sabai Sabai Chiang Mai Hotel situated in the tranquil lane of the business quartier, this hotel conveniently gives you access to the tourist attractions, the old town, commercial areas and shopping complex. mass transportation is also easy to get to both Chiang Mai International Airport and bus station by a red cab or taxi that are available 24 hours.

Puripunn Hideaway is a boutique, intimate small luxury hotel with about 30 rooms, constructed in a contemporary Lanna-Oriental architectural style inspired by traditional homes found in Chiang Mai during the colonial period. The hotel is situated in the midst of one of Chiang Mai's centuries-old communities where ancient Lanna treasures, cultural traditions and way of life have been well-preserved.