Northern Thailand Nightlife

Chiang Mai’s nightlife scene is constantly changing. Nimmanhemin Rd., near Chiang Mai University, is home to the classiest, newest bars and discos. Several popular bars lie on the Ping’s east bank, just north of Nawarat Bridge. The 60฿ tuk-tuk from Tha Pae Gate is well worth it. Farang pubs with cheap beer line the old-city streets near Tha Pae Gate, and extend north and south on both sides of the moat. Those immediately at Tha Pae Gate attract backpackers, while those to the south on Loi Kro Rd. are sketchier. There are very few outright go-go bars in Chiang Mai. In their place, not-so-thinly disguised “karaoke” bars fill the void. The night bazaar hosts some relaxed gay bars. Updates on gay nightlife in Chiang Mai can be found at www.utopia-asia.com/thaicm.htm. There isn’t much nightlife in the center of the old city. Instead, most of it is near the eastern edge, along Moon Muang Rd.

• The Old City

North Gate Jazz Co-op (☎ 085 5992 861), just east of the Chang Phuak Gate, is another place to hear live music. Some patrons watch from atop the city wall across the street.Music nightly at 9:30pm ...more

• East Of The Old City

This is where to go for the most easily accessible and exciting nightlife in Chiang Mai. Bars cluster around the Tha Pae Gate, the Night Bazaar, and everywhere in between. Rooftop Bar (☎ 086 7293 ...more

• West Of The Old City

Another popular nightlife area in Chiang Mai is the university-oriented Nimmanhemin Rd. It’s a hefty 3km walk from the old city, so it might be easiest to get there in a tuk-tuk. WarmUp Cafe ...more