Things to Do in Chiang Mai at Night
Explore Chiang Mai’s vibrant night scene, from bustling markets and cultural shows to exciting rooftop bars and late-night adventures.
As the sun sets over the mountains, things to do in Chiang Mai at night light up the city with energy, color, and excitement. Whether it’s strolling through bustling night markets, enjoying a traditional dance show, or simply savoring the view from a rooftop bar, Chiang Mai at night offers something for every traveler. The city’s cultural charm comes alive, blending history with modern delights. Below, we take you through the top things to do in Chiang Mai at night, covering shopping, cultural experiences, nightlife, food, and night tours. Let’s explore the best of Chiang Mai after dark!
Night Markets
Chiang Mai’s night markets are vibrant and lively, providing a mix of shopping, food, and local entertainment. Here are the top night markets you must visit:
Located on Chang Klan Road, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is open from 6 PM until midnight, making it a prime spot for evening exploration. It’s famous for its vast selection of handcrafted goods, clothing, accessories, and delicious street food. Vendors line the street selling unique Thai crafts, and you can enjoy live performances.
Tip: Bring cash for small purchases and bargain politely.
Saturday Walking Street (Wualai Walking Street)
Taking place on Wualai Road every Saturday from 5 PM to 10:30 PM, this night market is known for its handmade silver jewelry, crafts, and textiles. Visitors can shop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs and sample local street food like sai ua (northern Thai sausage) while enjoying live cultural performances.
Tip: Arrive early to avoid the peak crowds and grab some of the best local snacks.
Sunday Walking Street (Tha Pae Walking Street)
Held every Sunday from 4 PM until midnight on Ratchadamnoen Road, this is one of Chiang Mai’s biggest night markets. The streets are filled with local artists, musicians, and performers, while vendors sell beautiful Lanna-style crafts, clothes, and delicious snacks like kanom krok (coconut pancakes).
Tip: Walk beyond the main road to discover hidden gems from local artisans.
Nimmanhaemin Road
Not your typical market but a must-visit spot at night, Nimmanhaemin Road is a trendy area with chic boutique shops, art galleries, and late-night cafes. This street is perfect for a relaxing evening, enjoying local food and drinks at stylish cafes and restaurants.
Tip: Take a stroll around the small lanes, known as ‘sois,’ to discover quirky stores and art spaces.
Jing Jai Market
Jing Jai Market, located on Assadathorn Road, is an eco-friendly night market that’s slightly quieter than the others. It’s known for organic products, local crafts, and sustainable goods. The market opens in the early evening, offering handmade goods and artisanal snacks.
Tip: Great for visitors looking for a more peaceful and eco-conscious shopping experience.
Cultural Experiences
Chiang Mai’s rich cultural heritage comes to life at night, offering tourists a chance to dive into local traditions and history. Here are the top cultural experiences to enjoy after dark:
Khantoke Dinner at Khum Khan Toke
A traditional Lanna dining experience, the Khantoke dinner allows visitors to enjoy northern Thai cuisine while watching traditional Thai performances, including Lanna dances and sword shows. Khum Khan Toke is a popular venue for this, and the experience typically starts at 7 PM.
Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center
Another excellent option for a Khantoke dinner, Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center offers a similar experience where guests sit on the floor and enjoy a meal while watching cultural performances. The center provides an immersive cultural experience, featuring dances from various regions of Thailand.
Doi Suthep Temple, located on a mountain overlooking Chiang Mai, is even more magical at sunset. After dark, the temple grounds are quiet, offering a serene atmosphere for meditation and reflection. Evening tours to Doi Suthep usually include a visit to the temple and an opportunity to see monks in prayer.
Muay Thai at Thapae Boxing Stadium
For something more thrilling, head to Thapae Boxing Stadium to watch live Muay Thai fights. The stadium hosts nightly events starting at 8 PM, where both local and international fighters compete in this traditional martial art.
Muay Thai at Kawila Boxing Stadium
Another great venue for Muay Thai enthusiasts is Kawila Boxing Stadium, which also offers nightly fights. The atmosphere here is more local, making it a great way to experience an authentic Thai sporting event.
Nightlife
Chiang Mai’s nightlife is diverse, with everything from cozy bars to bustling nightclubs. Here’s where to go for an exciting night out:
XANADU Rooftop Bar
XANADU Rooftop Bar at the Furama Hotel offers a quieter, more romantic setting for those who prefer a relaxing evening with a breathtaking view of the Chiang Mai skyline. With its open-air setup, this bar is a great spot for cocktails under the stars. The bar opens at 6 PM, and its 360-degree view is especially captivating at sunset.
Myst Maya Rooftop Bar
Situated on the rooftop of Maya Shopping Mall, Myst Maya Rooftop Bar is one of the most iconic nightlife spots in Chiang Mai. Offering a stunning 360-degree view of the city, the bar is perfect for watching the sunset while sipping on creative cocktails. With its modern décor, Myst Maya provides a chic, upscale atmosphere where guests can unwind after a day of exploring the city. The bar opens around 5 PM, and weekends often feature live DJs and special events.
Warm Up Café
One of the most popular nightlife destinations in Chiang Mai, Warm Up Café is located on Nimmanhaemin Road. It’s famous for its live music, DJs, and late-night dancing. The venue has different sections, including a lounge, a live band area, and an outdoor garden. Warm Up Café is a hotspot for locals, university students, and travelers alike, and it usually gets busy after 10 PM.
Beer Lab Chiang Mai
For beer lovers, Beer Lab on Nimmanhaemin Road is a must-visit. Known for its extensive selection of craft beers, both local and international, this bar is the ideal spot for those who appreciate a laid-back vibe. The Beer Lab offers more than 10 beers on tap, as well as bottled options that rotate frequently. Open from 5 PM until late, Beer Lab also serves delicious bar food like burgers and Thai-style snacks.
*** Be cautious of bars or karaoke establishments where attractive women sit outside waving at tourists or trying to entice you inside, as you may end up paying far more than expected. It’s important to clarify all prices before sitting down for a drink or asking women in the venue to join you. These places often present themselves as karaoke bars with women offering to accompany you as part of the service.
*** Avoid driving if you plan to drink alcohol, especially in Chiang Mai, as there are numerous police checkpoints at night targeting drunk drivers. Driving under the influence is considered a serious offense in Thailand, and penalties can be severe.
Food & Dining
Chiang Mai’s food scene is an exciting blend of street food, fine dining, and riverside eateries. Here’s where to grab a bite after dark:
Riverside Bar & Restaurant
Set on the banks of the Ping River, Riverside Bar & Restaurant is a popular spot for tourists looking to enjoy dinner with a view. The menu offers a mix of Thai and Western dishes, with live music every night.
The Good View Bar and Restaurant
Another great riverside spot, The Good View is known for its excellent seafood and lively atmosphere. It’s a great place to enjoy a late dinner or drinks while listening to live music.
If you’re craving street food, Warorot Market is the place to go. Open late into the night, this bustling market offers everything from grilled meats to fresh fruit and Thai desserts. It’s also a great spot to try local delicacies like sai ua (northern Thai sausage) and nam prik noom (northern chili paste).
Kad Rin Come Night Market
Located near Chiang Mai University, Kad Rin Come is a lively night market with a focus on local street food. Here, you’ll find a variety of affordable snacks, from grilled squid to fried insects.
Nimmanhaemin Road Food Scene
Nimmanhaemin Road is not only known for its shopping but also its food. The street is lined with cafes and restaurants offering a mix of Thai and international cuisine. It’s the perfect place to grab a late-night snack or dessert.
Night Tours
For a guided exploration of Chiang Mai’s night scene, these tours are a must:
One of the city’s top attractions, Chiang Mai Night Safari allows visitors to see nocturnal animals in a natural setting. Tours run from 6:30 PM to 10 PM, offering tram rides through the park where you can spot animals like tigers, giraffes, and zebras.
Explore the city’s landmarks, temples, and night markets in a fun tuk-tuk ride. These tours typically start at 7 PM and cover key spots like Tha Pae Gate, Doi Suthep, and Nimmanhaemin Road.
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Chiang Mai, from the bustling night markets to serene temples and rooftop bars. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation, Chiang Mai at night offers unforgettable moments for every traveler.