Chiang Mai, the cultural capital of northern Thailand, is home to a wide variety of accommodation options for travelers. From budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts, there’s something for everyone in this charming city. But if you’re looking for something truly unique, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, I’ll share my personal favorites—the 3 most unique hotels in Chiang Mai, each with its own distinct character and charm.
Oh, and once you’ve found a home base of your choice, take a look at some of the best things to do in Chiang Mai! It’s my favorite city in Thailand, and after checking out the sights on this list, it’ll be yours, too.
Please note that I have been hosted by some of these hotels, but all thoughts are my own.
The Chai Lai Orchid
The Chai Lai Orchid is an Instagram-famous eco-lodge located in the rural jungle around Chiang Mai. This wonderful nonprofit hotel takes care of rescued elephants and donates their earnings to underprivileged women in the nearby Thai village. Everything about this hotel holds a special place in my heart, from the kindness of the staff to the gentle beauty of the elephants to the gorgeous mountainside and river that are home to not only the elephants, but also countless local families.
It costs approximately 2800 baht (or about 80 USD) to stay one night at Chai Lai Orchid, which is high by Thai standards but is an absolute steal compared to hotels in other countries. Especially when you consider you’re waking up with elephants in the morning and your money is going towards real, individual locals paid a fair wage, it’s hard to find any reason to complain about the price. Every hotel booking comes with “morning call,” aka the elephants coming around to your bungalow’s front porch to wake you up for breakfast. It’s unbelievably sweet and beautiful.
Unlike many elephant “sanctuaries” that are dangerous or unhealthy for elephants, the ones at Chai Lai Orchid are so obviously well taken care of and respected that there’s no need to worry. Rooms are snatched up fast, so make sure to book well in advance. And to truly commemorate your time here, consider booking a photography session!
Book your stay at the Chai Lai Orchid through Booking.com here.
Veranda Resort Chiang Mai
The epitome of luxury, the 5-star Veranda Resort is my favorite hotel not just in Chiang Mai, but in all of Thailand. The sprawling hotel property is located deep in the forested mountains about 40 minutes from Chiang Mai city center and boasts a sense of peace and luxury that I cannot communicate through words. From the incredibly thoughtful design to the excellent and discreet service, every aspect of this resort is well-crafted.
The rooms are clean and modern while still having a traditional wooden charm. The beds are enormous and soft, the plunge pool pavilion places a beautiful infinity pool in your backyard, the bathtub is naturally lit by sunlight and framed with bamboo, and there are somehow no mosquitoes despite the entire hotel being situated in the jungle. I love the food at the restaurant, which is as luxurious as it is expensive. You can even call to get shuttled around the hotel property in a golf cart.
Every amenity you could possibly imagine is at your fingertips. A lemongrass-scented bath? Already ready for you in your bathtub. Instagram-friendly floating breakfast? Simply schedule your delivery for the morning, all the way down to which kinds of fruit you prefer. The hotel property even has meeting rooms and a library for kids, as well as a stunning public infinity pool that is perfect for watching sunsets.
And just when you thought this resort was too remote, there is a free shuttle that runs to two locations in Chiang Mai to and from the hotel property for hotel guests. If you want to get back into the action, the city is just a stone’s throw away.
Want to explore what to do in Chiang Mai? I’ve got you covered!
Akyra Manor Chiang Mai
Akyra Manor is a stunning modern 5-star resort located in the heart of Chiang Mai. Its location is so premium, in fact, that it is located on the most popular street in the entire city. The hotel property is posh and ultra-sleek, full of black marble and glass. It’s hard to find a better resort with a more contemporary vibe.
The fanciest suite is massive even by luxury hotel standards, with the centerpiece being the open-air circular bathtub that overlooks Chiang Mai. The bathroom design is absolutely fantastic and well thought-out, and the bed is the zenith of comfort. You feel well taken care of at Akyra, and not by accident. The staff is attentive to all details, down to supplying a menu for what kind of pillow you would like and your preferred misting scent.
The bottom floor of the hotel is Akyra’s award-winning restaurant, which I can confidently say deserves all of its wins. Every menu item is a delicious winner, from the seared tuna and mango salad to the prawn ravioli. We enjoyed every bite until we were beyond stuffed. Breakfast is a similarly exquisite affair, served a la carte with a fanciful 3-tiered side of fruit and pastries.
On the top floor is the bar and a stunning glass swimming pool that overlooks the city streets. It’s possibly one of the most beautiful hotel pools I’ve had the fortune to swim in, and perfect for sunsets. There’s no better way to relax in the middle of Chiang Mai’s hustle and bustle.
Book your stay at Akyra Manor through Booking.com here.
Chiang Mai is home to some truly exceptional luxury hotels that offer unparalleled comfort and style. These 3 hotels stand out for their unique character and charm, providing you with a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat, a cultural immersion, or the ultimate indulgence, you’re sure to find the perfect accommodation in this enchanting city.
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