We’ve got a real soft spot for Wat Pan Whaen Thai Massage as it holds status as ‘old faithful’ for many of us for many years. As it’s the largest of Chiang Mai’s temple massage halls it does get busy, but you can often walk in and nab an appointment, particularly in the low, rainy season. It’s a huge, long hall, with over a dozen people being treated at any given time. The staff seems to change a lot (apart from the legendary auntie on reception, we love her) but you generally get absolute diamonds working here. There’s a private space cornered off for oil massage, but locals are in for Tok Sen – the sound of multiple hammers in unison is a very Wat Pan Whaen soundtrack. So it’s not a luxurious or tranquil place but it’s a staple of Chiang Mai’s ancient healing spaces and we are grateful for that.
Wat Pan Whaen Thai Massage. B180-300. Phra Pok Klao Rd Soi 4. 9am-6pm