Best Places in Chiang Mai to Get a Thai Massage
Thailand is famous for their amazing Thai massages and if you’re looking to be pampered, Chiang Mai is the place for you! Getting a Thai massage in Chiang Mai should be at or close to the top of your list of things to do in the city.
There seems to be a Thai massage spa around every corner which means you’ll have an amazing array of choices across a whole variety of budgets, but it might also mean that you just end up confused and flustered. Don’t let trying to choose a place to get a Thai massage in Chiang Mai turn into a stressful experience! We’re here to tell you about the best places in Chiang Mai to get a Thai massage so all you have to focus on is relaxing and letting the amazing massage therapists work their magic.
After reading this article you’ll know what Thai massage is, why it’s so special and hopefully you’ll find several Chiang Mai massage places on our list that you’ll want to try. Or better… stay awhile and work your way through them all!
How is a Thai Massage Different?
Thai massages are quite different to those we might be used to like Swedish or shiatsu massages. A Thai massage isn’t about getting naked, oiled-up, and stroked (it sounds weird when you put it that way!), they’re more about the firm application of pressure in a variety of areas on your body while the masseuse arranges your body into different poses. It’s not uncommon for a Thai masseuse to seem like they’re performing acrobatic moves to position your body the way they want. Thai massage uses these acrobatic stretching techniques and gentle pressure on key points to relax your whole body. Clothes are kept on and you will usually be offered a set of loose clothing to change into for your massage.
You’ll also want to keep some etiquette in mind that might not apply if you were getting a massage at home. One of the main things is to remember that in Thai Buddist culture feet are considered to be the least sacred part of the body and there are rules that must be adhered to to respect this. First, make sure to keep your footwear outside, as you would in a temple of other such places. Second, there are specific rituals to abide by and your feet will be washed before your treatment so make sure to let this happen before hopping up onto your massage table.
As in many cultures, tipping is expected unless you deem the service to be exceptionally poor. The amount of your tip will depend on the type of place you’re in but, generally speaking, a tip of between 50 and 100 THB ($1.50 to $3) for a mid-ranged place for a Thai massage in Chiang Mai will suffice.
Health Benefits of a Thai Massage
If you’re on the fence about whether to get a Thai massage in Chiang Mai, you’ll want to consider some of the amazing health benefits. There have been studies and research conducted on clients of Thai massage that claim it lowers stress, boosts energy, and improves your range of motion. Once you experience your first good Thai massage in Chiang Mai, you’ll likely see that all of this is true. Thai massage is also said to improve circulation and even relieve headaches.
Different Types of Thai Massage Places
If you have an experienced and professional massage therapist, a traditional Thai massage will generally be very similar no matter where you choose to go. It will go through the same motions and stick with what it means to be a Thai massage versus a Swedish massage, for example. The way massages in Chiang Mai will differ most greatly is the overall aesthetic experience and the setting and it’s these differences that will be reflected in the price.
For example, you can find places offering a traditional Thai massage in Chiang Mai for as cheaply as 150 THB ($7.50) per hour all the way up to over 2,000 THB ($61). This is obviously a massive difference but just because a place is incredibly affordable, it doesn’t mean that the quality will be any less. It will, however, mean that the overall experience will be a lot more simple. This is good news both for people who want a great massage but are on a budget and for those who really want to splash out for a special occasion or feel the need to treat themselves or a loved one. There’s a whole range of options for getting a Thai massage in Chiang Mai across a variety of budgets and you’re sure to find a spot that’s perfect for you.
List of Spas Offering Traditional Thai Massage in Chiang Mai
If you’re looking for a Chiang Mai massage place then reading this extensive list is a perfect first step! There are so many places to get a massage in Chiang Mai that it sort of boggles the mind at first. Sometimes, too much choice can be overwhelming! But we’re here to help cut through the confusion so have a read and we’re sure you’ll find a place for a Chiang Mai massage that is a great fit for you.
Anantara Spa
Anantara is a global chain of high end hotels and resorts and you can expect an excellent spa and massage experience here. Set in a beautiful location along the banks of the Ping River, the moment you step inside its grounds you’ll feel relaxed. The spa has five private treatment rooms, five couple’s rooms, and a massage room for singles of couples. They also have indoor and outdoor spaces to relax for before or after your Thai massage. The service here really is top notch and the setting is quite magical and the prices match this standard. They have many different types of treatments and spa packages on offer including traditional Thai massage which costs 2,800 THB ($85) for 90 minutes. This is an excellent choice for getting a Thai massage in Chiang Mai if you really want to pamper yourself!
Address: 123/1 Charoen Prathet Rd
Hours: Daily, 10am to 9pm
Phone: +66 53 253 333
Email: spa.chiangmai@anantara.com
Website: https://www.anantara.com/en/spa-and-wellness
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anantara
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anantara_hotels
Cheeva Spa
Cheeva Spa is a higher-end place and you’ll be pampered from the moment you step foot on the premises which makes it worth it if you’re looking to treat yourself. A traditional Thai massage here costs 1,500 THB ($45) for 90 minutes and 1,900 THB ($57) for two hours and they have a huge menu of other treatments including deep tissue massage, aromatherapy, Thai herbal hot compress massage, and many more. You could even try a clay or chocolate body wrap here.
The setting is beautiful, the therapy rooms are immaculate, and the staff are professional and very good at their jobs. They pay attention to every little detail and you’ll walk out of Cheeva Spa after your Thai massage feeling revived.
Address: 4/2 Hassadisewi Road, Si Phum Sub-district
Hours: Daily, 10:30am to 8:30pm
Phone: +66 53 211 400 / +66 53 405 129
Email: cheevaspa@hotmail.com
Website: http://www.cheevaspa.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cheevaspa.chiangmai
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cheevaspa_thailand
Chiang Mai Women’s Correctional Institute
The Chiang Mai Women’s Correctional Institute is a forward-thinking prison that aims to train its inmates in vocational skills including massage so they have a better chance at finding a job and returning to society upon their release. It’s an innovation program and it allows you to get a massage with a cause! The prison is centrally located in the old city and you’ll find the vocational skills center across the road in a Traditional Thai building. The inmates have all been trained for six months in Thai massage before starting work and they offer a very professional service. Female prison guards are roaming around monitoring the place, but it certainly doesn’t feel like they’re needed and the atmosphere is calm and feels very safe.
Massages cost from 250 THB ($7.50) per hour and any tips you leave will be shared equally amongst the ladies each month. It’s not possible to make bookings here to arrive early to book a time slot. You can have a wander around their beautiful garden or grab lunch nearby if you have to wait awhile. There are currently five branches in Chiang Mai.
Address: 35/1 Jahban Road / 252/15 Prapokklao Road / 18/2 Wiang Kaew Road / 74/1 Ratchawithi Road / 28/7 Singharat Road
Hours: Daily, 9am to 9pm
Phone: +66 93 984 0532
Website: https://dignitynetwork.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wmc.mayflower
Dheva Spa and Wellness Centre
This wellness center is a whole destination in itself set on lush, tropical grounds and surrounded by natural beauty. Their facilities are stunning and you’ll feel like you’re stepping off of the busy Chiang Mai streets into a sanctuary of calm. Their facilities include manicure and pedicure stations, two hairdressers, a hydrotherapy room, a cafe, and a boutique and it’s all enclosed within a stunning building inspired by a Burmese temple.
The Dheva Spa offers a range of Thai massages, Ayurveda treatments, and complete wellness packages. They’re focused on holistic health and wellness and all of their treatments are personalized to the individual needs of their clients and if you choose to go on a retreat, a health professional will offer a consultation and give a full-body program including diet, exercise, and treatments. This is truly a luxury option for those who want to pamper themselves!
Address: 51/4 Chiang Mai-Sankampaeng Road, Moo 1
Phone: +66 53 888 983 / +66 53 888 888
Email: dhevaspa@dharadhevi.com / enquiry@dharadhevi.com
Fah Lanna Spa
The Fah Lanna Spa is one of the most popular choices in Chiang Mai, having won many awards. The spa is located in the middle of the old town but it provides a luxurious, modern escape from the chaos outside. The moment you walk inside into the beautiful gardens among the stunning Northern Thai-style architecture, you’ll feel at ease and relaxed.
The spa is quite large with over 20 treatment rooms, but somehow it doesn’t feel so big and you’ll be given attentive, personalized attention the whole way through. All rooms are private with their own bathroom and you’re welcomed with a cold face towel and iced tea on arrival to help you settle in. Rates here are on the more expensive side at 700 THB ($21) per hour for a Thai massage which is still a bargain considering the service and professionalism. They offer a free shuttle service to the spa from anywhere in Chiang Mai, which is a nice touch.
Address: 57 57/1 Wiang Kaew Road
Hours: Daily, 10am to 10pm
Phone: +66 53 416 191
Email: email@fahlanna.com
Website: https://fahlanna.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fahlanna
Giving Tree Massage
Giving Tree Massage is located in the center of the Old Town and it’s an excellent and very affordable place to chill out for a while among the hustle bustle of the city center. Staff are well-known for being very attentive and professional and this is one of the best places in Chiang Mai to get a traditional Thai massage. Rooms are air conditioned which is a nice bonus. A one hour traditional Thai massage here costs 300 THB ($9) and they even wash your feet on arrival and give you tea and biscuits after your massage.
Address: 5/13 Soi7 Ratchadamnoen Rd Sripoom Amphoe Muang
Hours: Daily, 11am to 9pm
Phone: +66 89 757 1698
Email: thaigivingtree@gmail.com
Website: http://www.thaigivingtree.com/html/main.php
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thai.givingtree
Green Bamboo Massage
This family-run business operates with a commitment to sustainability and the environment. They exclusively use home made, organic products that are made from locally sourced materials and their expertise is in traditional Thai massage. If you’re on a budget and want to support a small, sustainable business then Green Bamboo is a great choice for a Thai massage in Chiang Mai. Green Bamboo Massage is located just 10 minutes walk from Tha Phae Gate.
Address: 1 Moon Muang Road, Soi 1
Hours: Monday to Friday, 10am to 9pm, Weekends, 11am to 9pm
Phone: +66 89 827 5563
Email: green.bamboo.massage@gmail.com
Website: http://www.green-bamboo-massage.com
Kiyora Spa
This welcoming Chiang Mai spa offers complete spa packages if you really want to pamper yourself, or you can book individual treatments. For a traditional Thai massage they charge 1,000 THB ($30) for 1.5 hours which is on the more expensive side, but the spa is beautiful and the setting is peaceful and relaxing. Kiyora Spa offers free pickup and drop off within central Chiang Mai. If you book online through their website they offer 2-for-1 and 25% off discounts.
Address: 26/1 Chang Moi Soi 2, Chang Moi District, Amphoe Muang
Hours: Daily, 10am to 8pm
Phone: +66 52 003 268
Email: contact@kiyoraspa.com
Website: https://kiyoraspa.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kiyoraspa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiyoraspa
Lila Thai Massage
This spa isn’t a high-end place but it’s a great choice because it was established by the former director of the Women’s Correctional Institute and it’s the first stop for many of the masseuses after their release. Having a massage here is a great way to support these women and you’ll also have a wonderful experience here while you do it. Plus the staff are very professional, the spa has a nice ambiance, and the prices are excellent. A traditional Thai massage here costs 300 THB ($9) per hour and they’ve got a whole menu of interesting massages and treatment packages to tempt you.
Address: Several Locations in Chiang Mai – Phrapokklao, Ratchadamnoen, Tha-Phae Gate, Ratchapakinai, Ratchavithi, Phrasingh, Chedi Luang
Hours: Daily, 10am to 10pm
Phone: +66 53 279 403
Email: lilathaioffice@gmail.com
Website: http://www.chiangmaithaimassage.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LilathaimassageChiangmai
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilathaimassage
Nakara Spa
This spa is located inside the Ping Nakara Hotel, a relatively new boutique hotel in Chiang Mai. The atmosphere is serene and restful and it’s a perfect escape from the busy surrounding streets. The spa focuses on using Ayurvedic techniques which is a holistic system of healing developed 3,500 years ago in India. A traditional Thai massage here costs 1,300 THB ($39) for 90 minutes of bliss. There are lots of other interesting treatments on their menu as well. This is a place to be pampered and it’s good value for the quality of care you’ll receive.
Address: 135/9 Charoenprathet Road, T. Changklan
Hours: Daily, 11am to 8pm (last appointment at 6pm)
Phone: +66 53 252 101 / +66 53 252 999
Email: info@nakaraspa.com
Website: http://www.nakaraspa.com / https://www.pingnakara.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Nakara-Spa-Ping-Nakara-Boutique-Hotel-Spa-430829760282945
Naruncha Beauty & Massage
Naruncha is a massage parlor that has a wide range of treatments on offer, including coconut oil and aloe get massages. They have great prices and you can get a traditional Thai massage here for 250 THB ($7.50) per hour. One of the most interesting things about Naruncha Beauty & Massage is that they’re also a school! So if you’re interested in doing something a little different during your time in Chiang Mai and want to learn the art of Thai massage, then this place is definitely worth a visit!
Address: 130/1 Ratchaphakhinai Road
Hours: Daily, 10:30am to 11pm
Phone: +66 53 273 753
Email: jetlooi2017@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/narunchabeauty
Nimman House Thai Massage
Nimman House opened in 2003 and they offer a wide variety of spa packages and individual treatments. It has a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere and the staff are well-trained and professional. They have private single or double rooms for spa treatments and offer a couples version for all of their treatments. A Thai massage here costs 250 THB ($7.50) per hour for one person or their price for couples is 450 THB ($14). The treatments here are all well-priced and great value.
Address: 59/8 Nimmanhaemin Road
Hours: Daily, 10:30am to 10pm
Phone: +66 53 218 109
Email: nimmanhouse@gmail.com
Website: http://www.nimmanhouse.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nimmanhousethaimassage
The Oasis Spa
The Oasis Spa is one of the most acclaimed spas in Chiang Mai. It’s a popular place and appointments are required. They have three locations in Chiang Mai (and they even have one in Bangkok) but currently only the spa Nimman is open and the two other Chiang Mai locations are temporarily closed. The Oasis Spa in Nimman is set in a triple-level manor house with eight treatment rooms, a hydrotherapy bath, and Thai herbal steam rooms. Staff are friendly, professional, and attentive. They offer free round trip transportation from your hotel in Chiang Mai to the spa and back.
Address: 11 Nimmana Haeminda Road Lane 7, Tambon Su Thep
Hours: Daily, 11am to 8pm
Phone: +66 53 920 111
Email: cs@oasisluxury.net
Website: http://www.oasisspa.net
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oasisluxury
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oasisspathailand
Orn Healing Hands
This simple, unassuming spa is run by the friendly owner, Orn, who is a talented masseuse who can figure out exactly what your body needs and deliver an amazing and rejuvenating massage. Make sure to book well in advance as she’s popular! She has a small staff who also give wonderful treatments so if Orn is booked, consider a Thai massage in Chiang Mai by another person on her well-trained crew.
Address: 42 Moon Muang Road Soi 9
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 11am to 8pm, Closed Sunday
Phone: +66 82 183 9915
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Orn-Healing-Hands-Massage-190586944461757
Perception Blind Massage
Perception Blind Massage does what the name says, they offer treatments given by visually impaired massage therapists. They launched their first branch in Bangkok in 2014 in an effort to provide employment to an under served community and it’s a truly wonderful experience. A 60 minute traditional Thai massage costs 300 THB ($9) per hour or 500 THB ($15) for two hours.
Address: 278 Thapae Road
Hours: Daily, 10am to 10pm
Phone: +66 95 582 6024
Email: perceptioncm1@gmail.com
Website: http://www.perceptionblindmassage.com/branch/3
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptioncm1
Rarinjinda Wellness Spa
Rarinjinda Wellness Spa is located in a beautiful, five-star luxury hotel of the same name. A traditional Thai massage here costs 2,000 THB ($61) for two hours and there’s a 30% discount on bookings made through their website. They have a huge selection of packages and treatments so choose from in addition to massages. This is definitely one of those places to come if you’re looking to splash out a bit and be pampered.
Address: 1, 14 Chareonraj Road, T. Wat Gate
Phone: +66 53 247 000
Email: sparsvn@rarinjinda.com
Website: https://www.rarinjinda.com/spa
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rarinjinda.official
Supattra Blind Massage
This is one of the most affordable places for a Thai massage in Chiang Mai where you can have a one hour treatment for 150 THB ($4.50) per hour. They also offer foot massages, and that’s it! Their blind massage therapists are skillful at both treatments and, while the place is nothing fancy, you’ll come away feeling rejuvenated. You should book an appointment and many people recommend asking for Master Nat.
Address: Sri Poom Road, Lane 1, Tambon Si Phum
Hours: Daily, 8am to 9pm
Phone: +66 53 224 107
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapeuticblindmassage
Thanyaras Health Massage
Located in Santitham, Thanyaras Health Massage offers a variety of treatments including physiotherapy. The staff are very friendly and the service is professional. A one hour Thai massage here costs 200 THB ($6) and you might even get a free mini shoulder massage thrown in. Thanyaras Health Massage has a loyalty card that will give you discounts, so if you’re planning on indulging regularly in a Chiang Mai massage, be sure to ask for one. It’s best to book ahead of time and they’re very responsive on Facebook if that’s easiest.
Address: 5 Soi 5 Wang Sing Kham Road, Pa Tan
Hours: Daily, 10am to 9pm (Closed on the 16th of every month)
Phone: +66 61 792 4639
Email: thanyaras.aum@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thanyaras.Massage
Wat Pan Whaen Thai Massage
This massage place is housed in its own building on the grounds of the beautiful Wat Pan Whaen temple. It’s a very traditional place with few bells and whistles and so if you’re looking for luxury, this might not be the best Thai massage in Chiang Mai for you. Massages are given on mats on the floor that are lined up beside each other so there’s no privacy but it’s all done fully-clothed and the atmosphere is nice with mostly Thai customers.
This is a great place to try a Tok Sen massage which is a different style to a regular Thai massage. It’s an ancient practice where a wooden hammer is used to hit a wooden mallet in a rhythmic pattern along the meridian lines of your body which creates a vibration that heals your body. The massage is incorporated with usual Thai massage techniques at the end. This is one of the few places in Chiang Mai to get a Tok Sen massage and it’s very affordable starting at 200 THB ($6) per hour. If you want a regular Thai massage it costs 150 THB ($4.50) per hour.
Address: 50 Prapokklao Road Soi 2, Tambon Phra Sing
Hours: Daily, 9am to 6pm
Phone: +66 89 955 6259
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Pan-Whaen-Thai-Massage-1719124068309121
As you can see, if you want a Chiang Mai massage, you’re spoiled for choice! The city has a wide range of places catering to all budgets with locations all over the city so you don’t need to travel too far if you don’t want to. The city is filled with wonderful things to see and do but getting a traditional Thai massage in Chiang Mai is one of the best ways to appreciate the culture, treat yourself to something special, and to rejuvenate yourself for all of the other fun things Chiang Mai has in store for you!
We hope our list of places to get a Thai massage in Chiang Mai has been helpful. As always, please let us know if we’ve missed anything!