Punch Sethapanichsakul

Whether you’re looking to refuel after a Songkran water fight or sweating it out after some merit-making at the temple, a smoothie or cold-pressed juice is the perfect way to stay refreshed. What used to be simple refreshment stops have evolved into spots that mix wellness with creativity, popping up across the city and adding a functional twist to every sip. These health-conscious drinks now include everything from protein and spirulina to other superfoods and vitamins, making every smoothie or juice a refreshing, nutrient-packed boost. We’ve rounded up the city’s standout juice bars – from creamy cashew milk blends to antioxidant-rich acai cups and photogenic cold-pressed drinks – all delivering flavour, freshness and a little extra goodness.. With seven spots to try, a smoothie a day might just keep the doctor away.

It's finally here. Songkran is finally here! Well, almost. One of the most anticipated festivals in Thailand starts on Monday but in Chiang Mai, it’s officially kicking off this weekend. And with temperatures climbing by the day, it couldn't have arrived at a better time. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to Songkran parties – take your pick from MAYA's Singha Summer Club, a more laid-back splash session at Warmup Cafe or Think Park's Songkran for Singles if you're feeling optimistic. For something more family-friendly, Central Chiang Mai's Songkran Fun Fest has kids under 10 in for free. But it’s not all about the water.  There are many quieter ways to spend your time this weekend too. Experience bold 3D cartoon styles at the Ton Kwen: Roots Rewired festival at Central Chiang Mai Airport, build sand pagodas at Songkran Sookjai at The Backyard Mahidol or head to Baan Kang Wat for their special edition of ram wong dancing performances and hands-on workshops.    For Songkran fanatics, check out the full list of Songkran parties here.

For Chiang Mai (and most of Thailand) breakfast is no afterthought – it’s a proper meal. While the west tends to reach for cereal or a slice of toast, mornings here are built around something more substantial (usually rice) and oftentimes a lot more interesting. A traditional Chiang Mai breakfast often starts with patongo – a puffy, airy fried dough eaten with a creamy custard dipping paste, or dunked into a bowl of jok, the thick rice congee that anchors the northern Thai morning table. Kai kra ta is another staple – egg fried in a small metal pan with Chinese sausage and minced meat, topped with scallions and best eaten while it's still sizzling. And while both of these have foreign origins, they’ve evolved to match the Thai palate with spice and salty zings that put a kick in your step from the earliest hours of the morning. All of this washed down with warm tofu milk, Thai tea or a cup of locally sourced coffee, and you’ve got yourself a very good start to the day. But that’s not to say a more western approach is any less valued. Bacon, croissants and yogurt all make a strong appearance in the morning menu too, as do the everyday classics like pad krapao and fried rice – because rice is suitable any time of day. Craving some sustenance? Here are our top spots in Chiang Mai that do classic breakfasts best.

Chiang Mai is one of the top spots to spend Songkran in Thailand and this year the government has made it official – celebrations run for 12 days straight. Which means quadruple the fun and quadruple the parties to choose from!  The epicentre of it all is still the old faithful  Old City moat, where water fights run from morning into the evening and pickup trucks circle with buckets of ice cold water (although the jury is out how it’ll go this year with the current diesel shortage). Tha Phae Gate is the municipality’s cultural anchor – parades, ceremonies and opening events all pass through here. Nimman brings the more polished side of Songkran, with pool parties, live music and crowds that treat the whole week as more of a music festival than a traditional one. And scattered across the city, venues from shopping malls to garden bars are throwing their own parties every night of the week. Whether you're after the full chaos of the moat, exclusive riverside pool parties or eight hours of underground bass music in a hidden garden venue, Chiang Mai serves a Songkran smorgasbord for every kind of person this year. Here's where to be and where to get wet.   Prefer to roam? Check out our list of areas that do Songkran best and flow like the water.

Availability and pricing confirmed for the 2026 season. Not all restaurants list specific service windows, so always call ahead or book through official channels – several require advance reservations and operate limited daily quantities. For those who don't know khao chae, it's a Thai summer delicacy historically enjoyed by royals and those in more, high-society positions. Originating from the Mon community and popularised during the reign of King Rama IV, khao chae is deeply rooted in Thai culinary heritage. In essence, a bowl of jasmine rice is cooled and then submerged in jasmine-infused water and (more recently) topped with ice – served alongside an array of savoury fried sides including crispy vegetables and meats.  Today, the dish is enjoyed by all, but many don’t know about it or have simply never had the chance to try it. To help you on your quest for some royal cooling, we’ve picked out a few spots in Chiang Mai that let you try this historic dish for yourself.  Before we get into the list, here's how to eat it properly so you don't offend everyone else at the table. First, pour the jasmine water and ice onto the rice. Then, use a soup spoon to scoop up the rice and water. But here’s the important bit – do not use the same spoon for the fried sides and do not mix the sides into the rice. The sides are deep fried and oily, and mixing them in defeats the whole point of the dish. Use separate utensils for the fried food, then follow with a scoop of rice. This way the w

Most holidays are really just about the food and Easter is no exception. Not widely celebrated in Thailand, the Christian festival still finds a way into the calendar – we suppose any excuse for a buffet, party or meetup is good enough for Chiang Mai. Of course there are more elements to it than just the food, but a good Easter egg hunt and a few drinks to go with it are usually what people look forward to most.  Chiang Mai knows this well, which is why the city pulls out a surprising number of stops every year with brunches, buffets and feasting spreads that give you every excuse to book a table and celebrate – regardless if it's your culture or not.  Whether you're after a family day out at Shangri-La complete with pool access, a five-evening buffet at U Nimman, a drive out to Four Seasons in Mae Rim or a blowout at InterContinental where the menu is more than impressive – Chiang Mai has an Easter table for every kind of person this year.

April means Songkran – and if you're in the city, it also means gridlocked roads, water guns at every corner and the kind of chaos that is fun for exactly one day. Either way, there's no better time to get out of the city and discover a more relaxed way to ease into what is about to be a very hot Thai summer. This month's lineup spans Chiang Mai, Koh Phangan and Hua Hin, each offering a different kind of escape. Anantara Chiang Mai makes the case for the staycation done properly – khao chae by the Ping River, a Songkran pool party and an Easter brunch that gives you every reason to get out of the city and see something new.  Further south, Anantara Rasananda on Koh Phangan takes romance seriously with a five-night package designed to make you feel thoroughly swept off your feet. For families, Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas has thought through the chaos of travelling with kids so you don't have to, with activities for little ones and spa time built in for the adults who need it most. At the Sheraton Hua Hin Resort and Spa, Luna Lanai Restaurant is making a strong case for a table with their Pak Tai Trail menu – a journey through the bold and unapologetic flavours of Southern Thailand, best enjoyed with the sound of waves in the background.  And in Hua Hin, The Standard brings its signature playful wellness energy to the beachfront for anyone who wants to feel good without giving up the fun or opt for a full body reset with expertly trained coaches at Avani+ Hua Hin’s Wellnes

If you've somehow avoided matcha until now, firstly wow – it’s so popular there’s actually a global shortage – and secondly, this list is for you. Once a cornerstone of Japanese tea ceremony traditions, matcha has since travelled far from its origins – so far so it's arguably more popular overseas than it is back home in Japan. Traditionally whisked with water into a simple drink, globalisation got hold of it and milk entered the picture. Then oat milk. Then coconut water, orange juice and pistachio. Matcha today looks nothing like its ceremonial roots, but while contemporary takes fuel a new craving for the bright green drink, the best spots on this list hold onto its spirit, making sure the quality and respect for the craft remain in the picture. For Chiang Mai, the city’s independent creative spirit has taken the craft surprisingly seriously – with cafes fully immersing themselves in the tradition, sourcing directly from Japan while in the same whisk, pushing matcha into unexpected territory. Whether you're a convert in the making or a committed devotee, consider your next cafe crawl to be green, not black.

What is it? A cosy smoothie spot in the heart of Nimman with a low-sugar approach that lets the natural fruit flavours do all the talking. Optional add-ons like protein, chia seeds or nut butters mean you can adjust to whatever health-boost you need from it. Why we love it: Smooze hits the sweet spot between healthy and delicious. Every smoothie feels light and refreshing, yet still satisfying, making it easy to get a nutrient-packed boost without any fuss. The low-sugar base means you can sip guilt-free, while the creative flavour combos keep things exciting. Time Out tip: Go for the Mixberry with added protein – it’s silky smooth, easy to drink and the perfect way to sneak in extra protein without compromising on taste. It’s especially great if you’re on the move or looking for a post-workout pick-me-up. 21 Soi 5 Nimmanhaemin. Open 8am-7pm

What is it? A small, unfussy spot that keeps it simple with 100 percent natural ingredients, fresh fruit and no sugar. Smoothies can be customised with add-ons like protein or extra fruit, making it easy to find the perfect flavour for you. And if you prefer your drinks not too sweet then you’ll love this spot even more.  Why we love it: Drinks here are made to look as good as they taste. The midnight cloud is a standout – black sesame, balanced fruit and a swirl of spirulina that's as striking to look at as it is to drink. The acai lover is the more classic pick, packed with antioxidants and full of flavour. Time Out tip: Although still low on sugar, those with a sweet tooth should try the lemon cream pie – a refreshing, fruity blend that genuinely tastes like dessert in a glass. 19 Nimmanhaemin Soi 17. Open 10am-8pm

What is it? ‘You’re not sad, you just need some smoothies’ – the tagline says it all. This cheerful juice bar with genuine beach-hut energy is a hit with locals and tourists for good reason. Fresh, wholesome ingredients across everything from ginger shots to acai bowls and even fresh salads. Why we love it: Khun Kae’s feels like a neighbourhood treasure. Sticky notes from past customers cover the walls, a testament to the love and fruity warmth this place spreads. Their colourful smoothies and bowls are generous in size and flavour, ensuring every visit leaves you full and nourished. Time Out tip: For a serious health boost, try the turmeric, ginger and lemon shot. Packed with vitamin C, anti-inflammatory properties, liver-detoxifying benefits and antioxidants, it’s the perfect immunity booster – and an excellent remedy if you’re recovering from a night out. 193 Mun Mueang Road. Open 9am-7.30pm

What is it? A smoothie and juice bar tucked into Klay Commu wellness studio, alongside yoga, pilates and barre classes. The menu covers every colour in the rainbow – bright red watermelon, fresh orange juice, green celery kiwi – another fully natural ingredient list with no added sugar. Why we love it: Smoothies are a simple concept, but this one’s executed exceptionally well. No confusing menus or combos – just straightforward, health-conscious drinks that still taste delicious. The charming stand set-up makes it ideal for a grab-and-go and yes, their photobooth is a must. Time Out tip: Cool down even more on a hot day with their acai bowl. The icy acai mix topped with fresh fruits and crunchy granola is the perfect summer treat. 21, 11 Nimmanahaeminda Road. Open 10am-6pm

What is it? A stylish and health-focused juice and smoothie cafe that blends feel-good drinks with a space designed for you to spend hours in. Samoodi guarantees that all their smoothies are properly smooth – no annoying chunks or clumps getting stuck in your straw. With prices starting from just B45, it’s an easy stop for refreshing blends made with seasonal fruits and creative flavour combinations. Why we love it: It’s not just about the smoothies here, though each cup comes served as an artpiece – an undeniable highlight that’s great for the gram. However, the space is what really sets it apart – roomy, comfortable and ideal for catching up with friends. With free board games for groups and strong air conditioning, it’s a welcome escape from both the heat and Chiang Mai’s smoky season. Time Out tip: Don’t skip their homemade snacks – the crispy baked brownies and fragrant butter cookies make the perfect pairing with your smoothie. 181/38-39 Chang Puak. Open 10am-5.30pm Sundays close early at 4.30pm

What is it? This smoothie spot did so well in Chiang Mai it eventually made its way to Bangkok. Gapple blends everything with their signature homemade cashew nut milk for an extra creamy finish, with dates added for just the right amount of natural sweetness. Everything is 100 percent natural with no added sugar. Why we love it: This is the kind of place that makes healthy eating feel easy. The menu covers everything from fruit-forward blends to more functional options, so whether you’re after a post-workout boost or a light midday pick-me-up, there’s something for it. You’ll find ingredients like kale alongside more unexpected additions like grilled chicken, giving the smoothies a protein-packed edge without sacrificing flavour. Sure, a chicken smoothie is a hard sell, but these guys are right on the money. Time Out tip: Add spirulina to your smoothie for an extra boost – this nutrient-dense blue-green algae is known for supporting immunity, heart health and reducing inflammation. 19 Soi 17 Nimmanahaeminda Road. Open 8am-8pm

What is it? As the name suggests, this spot will make you feel very chuen jai. Every sip of their cold-pressed juices and smoothies bursts with natural flavour, served in bamboo holders that are as organic as they are practical. The menu focuses on seasonal, high-quality fruit and vegetables, letting the ingredients do the talking without masking them with sugar or artificial gunk.  Why we love it: The freshness of their drinks is notably refreshing and their transparency around what goes in the cup is genuinely one of a kind – a dedicated display of fresh produce shows you exactly what goes into each drink before you order. No guessing, no surprises. Time Out tip: If you prefer to chew your smoothie, you can order the fruit itself, cut into bite-sized pieces rather than blended. A great snack or a little extra alongside your drink.  185 Moo 7 Tambon On Tai. Open 8.30am-5pm

Songkran celebrations in three different ways across three days. Yoda’s CNX Gallery kicks things off on April 10 with underground beats from North Beans, House of Priests, G6PD and more. April 11 blends hip hop and rock, featuring Hell Boys Squed, Dirty Heaven and Fluid Frequency. For the metalheads, April 12 showcases TSAR BOMBA, 12 ROAD and NEVERBRIAN. Each night includes a free drink with entry, so grab a drink and snag a spot on the dance floor for this pre-Songkran Sonkgran party. April 10-12. B250 for April 10 and 11, B200 for April 12. From 9pm-midnight

Larb is a classic – Isan or Northern, there’s not many dishes that top the Thai table than this meaty salad. This weekend, the city rekindles its love for the dish with an all-out celebration of larb in all flavours and styles, from  minced meat or fish, to beef and buffalo, all mixed with fresh herbs and various spice mixes that reflect the many regions, communities and households. If you’ve never tried it before, this festival is the perfect introduction, featuring every type of larb you can imagine, from larb pla fan som from Doi Tao and larb pla neow from Chom Thong to raw meat larb servings for the more iron bellied. Although it’s not just about tasting; the Larb Reinterpretation competition lets chefs put their own creative spin on the dish, offering a live MasterChef style experience that’s not to be missed. April 11-12. Free entry. Huan Sor Hong, Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center. From 11am-6pm

Getting soaked this Songkran is inevitable – so you might as well do it riverside in an all-white outfit at Anantara's pool. Antonio Sax, DJ Cameron Glasgow and DJ BYAS are flying in especially, running from 3pm to 8pm as the sun goes down over the Mae Ping River. Entry starts at B690 with one drink included, or go all in at B2,200 for two hours of food and drinks from 4pm to 6pm. Knowing Anantara's reputation for traditional recipes with a creative twist, the food alone makes the upgrade worth it. Sort your white outfit now – the dress code of all-white is non-negotiable and the setting deserves the effort. April 12. From B690 per person. Tickets here. Anantara Chiang Mai Resort. 3pm-8pm.

The streets of Chiang Mai during Songkran are hardly a stylish affair – after all, even your best threads will be soaked in moat water by the end. So, it could be enticing to hear that HYDR Rooftop bar in Nimman is keeping things on-vibe high above the street level with a two–day Miami-themed party in collaboration with Masometop. We’re talking million-dollar views, non-stop house, afrobeat, drum ‘n’  bass and Miami bass (very on-theme) and a distinct blue-pink hue. Walk-in prices go up the later you arrive, so if you’re planning to commit, turn up early for the best rates. Coming as a group? Why not ‘splash-out’ on a table for up to 8 people that includes beers and buckets in the price.  April 13-14. HYDR Rooftop Nimman. B250 (4pm-6pm), B300 (6pm-7.30pm) and B350 (7.30pm-close). VIP tables from B2,200, book via Line @hydr_rooftop_nimman. 4pm-midnight

Skip the crowds and get a head start on Songkran with a short lift ride eight floors up to ARISE Rooftop Bar, bringing poolside energy and Nimmanhaemin views to the start of the holidays. This is one of those pre-game parties that really set the mood, and a good excuse to go full splash mode before the festival officially kicks off.  The approach is laid-back, starting with an afternoon of music, food and drinks before turning into a full-blown rooftop pool party session by the evening hours. Aside from the pool, splash station and drink deals tailor to the crowd, setting the tone for the week ahead with good vibes and space to actually enjoy it. April 11. ARISE Rooftop Bar. 3pm-late

Those who know Chiang Mai know the moat water circling the Old City is not something you want anywhere near your mouth, or face for that matter. Not ideal when most of the water flying around during Songkran comes straight from it.  But, as clockwork, authorities have come out and declared the moat water ‘safe for Songkran’ – although if you read the comments, it seems like the locals can’t help but notice fewer treatments in the lead-up to the festival.  Either way, there’s some reassurance as the official water testing that took place just this afternoon has declared the water safe for splashing, skin contact and everything external. Just try not to drink it, they ask politely.  Photograph: Chiang Mai News Water testing by the Chiang Mai Municipality recorded a pH of 7.55, which sits within the range for general use. It’s definitely not drinking water, but it is considered safe enough for the full-body soaking that Songkran is known for. And although efforts may be less publicised, the municipality says that efforts to improve water quality have been in action since late March. Fresh irrigation water has been pumped through the moat daily to keep it moving and prevent stagnation, while efforts have been made to reduce contamination and remove rubbish and debris from the city’s major Songkran water sources.  Good news for anyone planning to stick to the classic Old City water fights instead of heading to malls or club events – something we think is a tradition worth holdin

If your idea of Songkran usually involves water fights and street parties, here’s something a little quieter but arguably more meaningful to add to your calendar. Head to the Museum of Broken Relationships for a special ‘Carry Your Intention: A Songkran Ritual Festival’ that brings a more reflective pause amid the splashy chaos of Thailand’s New Year. Running from April 6-19, this contemporary take on a traditional ritual meets turns into an art experience, letting you swap water buckets for something more symbolic: a tung, or the traditional Lanna prayer flag.  Create your own tung sai moo and choose colours based on what you want to carry into the new year – red for courage, green for growth, white for letting go – and inscribe your own intention onto the flag. Whether that’s a bold life pivot or simply to drink more water is entirely up to you. Photograph: Museum of Broken Relationships Thailand The ritual draws from the Lanna tradition of Tan Tung, where offering a flag is believed to generate merit and symbolically release the weight of the past. In other words, it’s a culturally rooted way of saying new year new me.  Once you’re done, you can choose to keep your creation, leave it as part of a collective display in the museum or take it to a temple on April 15 when the tradition of sticking it in a big pile of sand is widely observed across Chiang Mai. True to the museum’s ethos, the experience also opens the door to something more personal. Visitors are invited to do

Everyone’s favourite Rimping is celebrating the weekend (because what’s not to celebrate about two days off work) with free tastings and irresistible deals so clear your schedule and come hungry.  Popping up at their Meechok branch from April 3-6, Happy Weekend brings together the very best of what loyal shoppers already love about the supermarket – and opens the floor to vendors, street food artists and much more besides.  Photograph: Rimping Supermarket Trips to the Supermarket are one of the few fun things we can do right now thanks to the smog, so head to the plaza and eat your way through over 30 food and beverage booths, serving up free tastings of everything from salmon sashimi to fresh smoothies, seasonal fruit and Korean noodles.  Beyond the tastings, Rimping are also offering over 200 promotional items available throughout the four days. Highlights include high-quality beef, frozen seafood, pasta, ice cream and the ever popular mayongchid – ‘tis the season after all.  Photograph: Rimping Supermarket So whether you have a weekly shop planned or are just looking for some fun to be had in an air-conditioned space, Happy Weekend makes it easy to indulge. Sure, there’s some booths on the outside, but you’ll have to walk past them to get in anyway – so why not stop for a second, pop off your mask and grab a free nibble.    April 3-6. Free entry but prepare to cash in on some deals.  Rimping Supermarket, Meechok Plaza. 8am-9pm  

Bangkok summers are brutal. Everyone's either fleeing to a beach or holed up poolside in a fancy resort. But this year, centralwOrld is making a case for staying put – and it's a compelling one. centralwOrld The Summer Club, running March 13-May 10, transforms centralwOrld into something between a community sports ground, an art installation and a very aesthetically pleasing excuse to get off your sofa.  Photograph: centralwOrld The visual identity comes courtesy of illustrator Prang Vipaluk (back for a second collaboration with centralwOrld) whose vivid and imaginative linework turns the mall into something that actually looks like summer feels – chaotic, colourful and alive. The centrepiece is a pickleball playground out front – the sport that everyone swore was a fad and yet here we are, still talking about it (and playing it too). The courts have been built into a full festive experience in partnership with Vaseline, Havaianas, Prebo Pop, Wilson, Hatari and Molly Tea, with check-in spots, rest areas and enough going on that non-players have a reason to show up too. Book a slot through the Central X app or simply walk-in, either way it’s completely free. Photograph: centralwOrld Beyond pickleball, there's a rotating roster of activations designed to shake off office syndrome, including the HOKA SPEEDGOAT 7 FLYLAB – a space showcasing the innovations of HOKA’s footwear that runs April 10-12 and the HOKA x centralwOrld Vertical Run Wilder on April 11 – a similar event bu

Chiang Mai might finally be getting a tram. Or, that’s what they’re saying this time. But, like the boy who cried wolf, we'll believe it when we see it. But for the first time in a while, the plans seem to actually be moving forward. The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) has presented findings from its study into a new electric tram system for the city – named the Red Line – and if everything goes to plan, Chiang Mai's urban transport is about to look very different… by 2032.  For a city where getting around has long been a choice of  songtaew, tuk tuk or Grab, and with the current gas crisis making that last option increasingly expensive, a decent public transport system is sorely needed.  Photograph: MRTA As a first step, the MRTA will first focus on the red line (above) which runs from Mae Hia to Royal Park Rejapreuk. However, the full proposed route runs 20.8 kilometres across 21 stations, starting at Nakorn Ping Hospital. The line runs above ground for most of the journey but there are plans for underground sections through the city centre – including a stretch that passes directly under Chiang Mai International Airport – once they extend. The system uses a light rail tramway – electric trams on rails laid along existing roads – which means less disruption to the city layout than a full metro and a much lower environmental footprint than everyone driving. That last part matters more here than almost anywhere else in Thailand. Chiang Mai residents already

One Nimman is getting a pop-up market this weekend and it's one of the more locally-rooted ones the neighbourhood has seen in a while. Chiang Mai Pop Market by Eiiga takes over One Nimman's One Square from March 26-28, running 4.30pm-10.30pm each evening. The concept is simple but refined – eat, drink and shop local, all in one place.  But what makes this market worth talking about? Firstly, the vendor lineup has been carefully curated to actually represent Chiang Mai rather than the usual tourist trap. Secondly, we love markets – so there.  Photograph: one nimman Over each day, the market runs across three zones. The ‘Good Stuff With a Story’ zone is exactly what it sounds like – local food and goods from vendors who have something worth knowing behind their product, the kind of stalls you actually want to stop at rather than walk past.  The ‘Photo Zone’ makes things even more memorable, with a collection of traditional Lanna attire you can throw on, get your hair done and take photos that make the whole outing feel worthwhile.  The wildcard, however, has to be the ‘Tech Zone’, where hosts Eiiga are launching their new Eiiga Pass – a new, locally-run source for unlocking hidden destinations and secret deals across participating vendors in and around Chiang Mai.  This could arguably be the best thing you'll spend B99 on all weekend. Photograph: one nimman But tech passes aside, this market is less about spending money and more about bringing together a community keen to p

Chiang Mai University (CMU) is about to make Chiang Mai feel a lot more like Bollywood this weekend – and before you ask, yes there’s more to it than just the movies.  Organised in cooperation with the Consulate of India and Chiang Mai Wellbeing Social  Enterprise, the Indian Studies Center at CMU presents an Indian Film and Cultural Evening on March 28 – a full day of cultural exchange running from 1pm to 9.30pm at CMU Cultural Square.  Photograph: Indian Studies Center, Chiang Mai University In true Bollywood style, there is, of course, a major motion picture screening of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara. But arrive before the main event and get into a multi-sensory experience that will let you taste, feel and fully immerse yourself in the world of Bollywood.  The Lanna India Bar is serving masala chai, made with Chiang Mai wild honey alongside Lanna-India fusion tapas – an unexpected but bound-to-be-delicious combo.  There's also a sound bath with Tibetan singing bowls, perfect for anyone who has been meaning to try one without committing to a full wellness retreat. Throw in henna art, Indian spice craft workshops, traditional Indian games and a family corner and it’s a treat for families and friends alike. Love it hate it, the standout activity of the evening (aside from the films) is an AI Bollywood Experience, where you can dress in traditional Bharat attire including sarees and lehengas and have your photo transformed into a full Bollywood moment – no acting experience requi

Mellowship Jazz Club is doing a full jazz remake of Olivia Dean's catalogue and we're very much here for it. With a Best New Artist Grammy award under her belt, it was only a matter of time before someone did a jazz remake of her songs.  On March 27, The Mellowship is that someone – bringing together some of Chiang Mai's finest musicians and singers for a full reimagining of her catalogue. Photograph: Olivia Dean Music And the crowd is going to be ready. Thailand ranks as one of Olivia Dean's top listener countries on YouTube globally, which means her music has struck a chord well beyond her British fanbase.  The modern jazz bar sits somewhere between cosy neighbourhood spot and proper music venue – great cocktails, a relaxed atmosphere and live performances every night of the week.  Guest performers from around the world pass through regularly, making it a genuine hub for music lovers whether you're a jazz die-hard or someone who just wants a good night out with a soundtrack to match. And while Olivia Dean may not be here in person, she’s with us in spirit. Photograph: The Mellowship Jazz Club The evening kicks off with RibbindaSky, a sweetheart acoustic pop jazz duo local to Chiang Mai, before the Olivia Dean tribute session takes over from 9pm. Free entry, so splurge guilt-free on espresso martinis and mai tais as a good ‘reason to stay,’ in Olivia’s words. March 27. Free entry. The Mellowship Jazz Club. Doors 6pm, main performance 9pm-10.15pm

The heat is turning up in Chiang Mai, but the air conditioner will no longer be of much help as the local government requests all air conditioners be set to 26 or 27 degrees celsius. This push is part of a broader national campaign, as Thailand responds to an ongoing energy crisis with roots in escalating Middle East tensions.  Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul ordered the measures to begin on 10 March, with Energy Minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon launching a formal campaign a week later. Now, Chiang Mai Governor Rattapol Naradisorn has rolled it out across all sectors – both private and governmental. Photograph: Sky News Air conditioning, once a solace for anyone looking to survive Thailand's summer, is now encouraged to sit between 26 and 27 degrees celsius, doors and windows should be kept closed and units switched off the moment the working day ends. While reasonable on paper – during a Chiang Mai March, it is a lot. The measures don't stop at temperature either. Offices are being urged to cut paper use and shift to electronic documents, turn lights off in empty rooms, and the lift – unfortunately – discouraged in favour of the stairs. He’s also asked businesses who can, to operate work-from-home protocols to reduce energy and petrol use, and shift meetings online. Officials have also been told to ditch the tie and wear short-sleeved shirts, except during ceremonies, which may be the most quietly radical part of the whole thing. There's also no official end date. The campa

Calling all seasoned thrifters and vintage lovers. If you’re into Y2K fashion, vintage accessories, secondhand clothing, street food,fairy lights and spoons (yes, spoons!) all in the heart of Nimman, then you’re in luck.  Think Park is back with its Saturday Vintage Flea Market and, contrary to what you’d expect with a market full of cheap second-hand finds, if you're looking to save money, you'll want to stay home – because the finds here are too good to resist. Photograph: Think Park Chiang Mai The market feels right at home at Think Park, the open-air creative hub at the north end of Nimmanhaemin Road. Founded by Varisa ‘Gift’ Passakornnatee – who studied theatre design at St Martin's in London before convincing her family to turn the plot into a community creative space – Think Park has always been built around supporting local artisans and independent makers. The Saturday Vintage Flea Market manifests that spirit in full swing. Photograph: Think Park Chiang Mai Past editions of the market have thrown up some serious standout finds – denim jackets with the kind of quality and durability that modern clothing rarely matches and leather handbags whose wear only deepens their charm.  And it's not just clothing. Handmade crafts make an appearance too, including rings made from silver spoons – the kind of one-of-a-kind local souvenir that will beat a mango sticky rice mini magnet any day of the week. Photograph: Think Park Chiang Mai   Beyond the thrill of the treasure hu

Songkran is just around the corner and Chiang Mai is taking it up a notch by adding nine extra days to the city’s festival schedule.  Traditionally Songkran is celebrated over three days, with the official national holiday falling on April 13-15. But Chiang Mai has never been one to keep the party short. Chiang Mai Municipality has just confirmed that this year's celebrations will stretch across 12 days, from April 6-17, making it one of the most expansive Songkran celebrations the city has seen.  The extended period is part of a wider effort to boost tourism and showcase everything the city has to offer during Thailand's most iconic festival. This makes sense given Chiang Mai is one of the hottest picks for travellers this year, with a Traveloka report placing it second most searched destination for bookings in April nationwide. Photograph: A little adrift For those more, let’s say aquaphobic folks, don't panic – the water fights won't be running throughout the entire period. Songkran is about far more than just water anyway.  Aside from the big water battles that take over Nimmanhaemin and the Old City (to name just a few hotspots), local groups and communities will also be celebrating the festival at its heart – a time for purification, paying respects to elders and welcoming the Thai New Year with merit-making and temple visits. From April 1, visitors can take part in bathing Phra Phuttha Sihing at Wat Phra Singh to ask for blessings throughout the month.  Mid-April is

Not every week does the world come to Chiang Mai. But if any week calls for breaking your usual routine, it’s now as the city hosts hundreds of paralympians for a cycling world cup and all the seat-gripping adrenaline that comes with it.   With Chiang Mai becoming the first city in Thailand to host the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Para Cycling Road World Cup, this is a landmark event for the city. The championship brings together riders from 44 countries, with over 400 athletes, staff and officials taking part in one form or another. The circuit itself covers 8.4km (per lap) on wide, fully closed roads, featuring climbs that only add to the challenge. Photograph: Thai Para Cycling Association Para-cycling is contested by athletes with a range of physical impairments, including limb differences and neurological conditions. Each rider carries a unique story and the racing itself is anything but ordinary – expect a striking variety of modified bikes on the course, from standard bicycles to handbikes, with riders competing across different classes. Among the competing teams is the Gaza Sunbirds, a team of Palestinian amputee athletes, who are now competing at world cup-level. There are few sporting events anywhere in the world that offer stories as powerful as these and this week, they're unfolding right here in Chiang Mai. Photograph: Mohammaed Dahmani Haitham Rajabhat University (Saluang Campus) plays host to an action-packed week of elite competition that runs fro