Anantara Chiang Mai

Iconic modernist, riverside, Thai hospitality

123 Charoen Prathet Road, Changklan, Chiang Mai 50100

(66) 53-253-333

See Website

At a Glance

This modern architectural gem, located directly alongside the Ping River, exudes Thai hospitality and contemporary comforts.

Indagare Loves

  • Riverside, black-bottom swimming pool
  • The location’s ease of access to Chiang Mai’s nighttime activities
  • The excellent Sunday Brunch

Review

While best known for designing Amanresorts, Australian architect Kerry Hill did some of his most dramatic work here on the banks of the Ping River. Behind an imposing bamboo clad wall, facing Chiang Mai town, are 84 ultra-sleek rooms, protected from city noise by two sets of thick oversized doors. Beds are comfortably plump, Wi-Fi is complimentary and speedy, and in the bathrooms, powerful rain showers wash away equatorial swelter. Suites 223, 323 and 423 look straight on the river.

Guests have the indulgent choice to unwind on outdoor and indoor daybeds in every room, or to head down to the well-padded teak sun loungers by the riverfront pool. More loungers above the adjacent spa allow for sunning after shadows fall down below. A destination in its own right, the spa offers some of Thailand’s top treatments. Here and throughout the hotel, staff delivers attentive service with sincere Thai smiles.

At the center of the U-shaped hotel sits the open-air restaurant (the colonial-era building once housed the British consulate), where chefs deliver a reliably delicious East-West menu blending Thai and Indian fare. Think tiger prawn curry and chili naan. The original wrought-iron staircase twists up to the rooftop bar where lemongrass adds flavor to traditional sundowners. Burn off vacation calories in the gym, where the latest equipment is positioned for unobstructed water views. Yogis, too, benefit from the meditative flowing river at a small yoga platform at the far side of the pool. For those who wish a closer look, the hotel can arrange boat rides on the waterway. Back on land, proximity to the colorful if touristy Chiang Mai night market is a convenience. Nature lovers can set out by Land Rover on hill tribe treks and elephant tours.

Who Should Stay

Design-conscious travelers and those looking to work on their suntans between cultural tours, as well as guests who prefer walking to local restaurants and the night market. Families will find enough space to play (but less greenery than at Four Seasons) but they might also have to endure the unfriendly stares of silence seekers, especially around the usually Zen calm swimming pool.

Written by Cynthia Rosenfeld

What's Nearby
Indagare employees walking up stiars

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