The capital of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is in the heart of an area that was known as the Lanna Kingdom in the 13th century. (Lanna means "the land of a million rice fields.") In those days, the boundaries of the kingdom stretched far into Burma and Laos. Today, this history has led to a blend of cultures that gives the north of Thailand its distinctive charm and unique traditions. The landscape is still covered with vividly green rice fields.
Chiang Mai is often fondly called the Rose of the North for its beauty and spirit. Meeting local people in the city's handicraft centres and centuries-old temples, one finds it easy to feel their sense of sanuk  which means fun in Thai  as they welcome visitors with an attitude that is both warm and captivating.

Located in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is the north's most populous and well-known city. Once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Lanna, now this cultural epicenter is a haven for artists, restauranteurs and entrepreneurs. Despite the city's growth, tradition remains strong, and festivals, holidays and religious gatherings are celebrated heartily.
Festival highlights in Chiang Mai include the grand procession of the charming giant Krathong, the religious ceremony and Lanna cultural performances, the spectacular light and sound show on the River Ping, the Queen Nappamas Beauty Pageant and the Lanna Thai candle-lighting market at Tha Pae Gate.

Transportation

Limousine service
Luxurious limousine service is available to and from the airport and may be arranged at the time of reservation or through our Concierge. Our airport representative will be greeting you at the Airport as you leave the baggage claim, and will then escort you to the waiting limousine.
Choose from the following limousine options for your airport transfer, and enjoy complimentary airport meet and greet service:

•    Mercedes Benz E250
•    Toyota Ventury Van

In-Limousine Service

•     Complimentary Wi-Fi
•     Digital device charging station
•     Complimentary bottled water and chilled wet towel

Other Limousine Services
Limousine service is available on an hourly basis with a minimum charge. Please contact the Concierge for more details.

Private Helicopter Services
Private helicopter charters are available to connect Four Seasons Tented Camp at Golden Triangle and Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai. Along the way, these rides offer spectacular views of the northern Thai countryside. Board the helicopter at heliport close to the banks of the Mekong River and land in Mae Rim village, a two-minute drive from the Resort. Flying time is approximately one hour.

Shuttle Bus Services
The Resort is also offering complimentary shuttle bus services into town. The drop off and pick up points are the D2 Hotel, just off Bazaar Street, and Nimmanhaemin Road. During your stay, our Concierge would be pleased to assist you with restaurant suggestions.

Time and distance to

• City centre: 30 minutes by shuttle bus
• Chiang Mai Night Market: 30 minutes by shuttle bus
• Walking distance to delightful antique shops and art galleries
• Financial district: 30 minutes by shuttle bus
• Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) : 25 minutes, distance: 20 kilometres/12.5 miles

Things to Do in Chiang Mai

The Chef Concierge at Four Seasons share these tips and other suggestions to make your stay in Chiang Mai, Thailand, a memorable one , from where to shop for art and crafts to the best time of day to visit the Doi Suthep Temple.

Known as "the Rose of the North," Chiang Mai will inspire you with its rich culture, lively art scene, and surrounding countryside of rice paddies and forest-covered mountains. To help plan your next trip to Thailand, we asked Nonpavidh Tosivutsilavut, Chef Concierge at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, to share his recommendations for experiencing the very best of Chiang Mai  from sacred temple visits to savouring local cuisine to where to shop for souvenirs.

Shopping in Chiang Mai
Although Chiang Mai's Night Bazaar is well-known, much better shopping can be found along Nimmanhaemin Road, where stunning contemporary textiles are on offer at Studio Kachama, along with other galleries, shops and coffee houses. On Charoenrat Road, shops such as Vila Cini offer sophisticated silks and furnishings based on traditional northern Thai designs. Last-minute shoppers can stop at the Central Airport Plaza, where vendors offer tasteful mementos whose proceeds benefit local hill tribes.

Experience Northern Thailand's natural beauty
Even without leaving the Resort, you can try rice planting, mountain biking, spa treatments and much more. Farther afield, there?s hiking to waterfalls, visits to organic farms and a favourite among guests: a visit to the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden. Laced with streams on the side of a mountain, the garden is a wonderland of rare orchids, palms and ferns. Four Seasons will pack a lunch for you to ensure a perfect picnic.

Chiang Mai by bicycle
Want to explore the lush green landscapes around Chiang Mai and get some exercise in the process? The Resort has mountain bikes available for guests, along with route suggestions, and the Concierge desk can steer you to organized bike tours into the countryside as well. If you'd prefer to use horsepower, the Pack Squadron Riding Club, a mere 15-minute drive from the Resort, offers horseback riding; experienced instructors and various outings are available (basic horseback riding experience required).

Chiang Mai's best restaurant
Chiang Mai has a booming restaurant scene, and one place not to miss is The House. Set in a beautifully restored old home, it's an Indo-Chinese mix of antiques, silks, candlelight and a terrace lounge right out of Scheherazade. The cooking is a careful mix of international styles, including dishes such as pan-fried duck, salmon tartare and lamb kebabs. There's a more casual tapas bar here, too, along with a sophisticated clothing and home décor boutique called Ginger.

Learn to cook in Chiang Mai
Northern Thai food is distinctly different from what you?ll taste in Bangkok or the southern beach resorts. At the Rim Tai Kitchen, you can learn to make the authentic dishes featured at the Resort?s Sala Mae Rim restaurant, such as khao soi noodles in a curry broth, or pad thai, a wok-fried rice noodle dish with prawns

Celebrate the Festival of Lights
Every year in November, northern Thais celebrate Yi Peng, a Buddhist festival focused on merit-making and celebrated by the release of floating khom loy lanterns into the sky to carry wishes and dreams up towards the heavens. The best place to experience this beautiful celebration is Chiang Mai, where thousands of lanterns are released simultaneously, resulting in an unforgettable spectacle as they light up the entire night sky. Join the large celebrations in the city, or enjoy a small, intimate celebration at the Resort, where guests are able to release their own khom loy on the edge of the lake.

Explore ancient temples
A walk around Chiang Mai?s 700-year-old central core?set within ancient walls and a moat?is a must. Dozens of temples dot the area, including Wat Chiang Man, the city's oldest, and Wat Chedi Luang, with its ancient stone stupa. The shady grounds of Wat Phra Singh are perfect for strolling or quiet contemplation. Saffron-robed monks are everywhere and are often willing, even eager, to practice their English with visitors. Ask the Concierge about the program called "Monk Chat."
For the most panoramic view of the city, go to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the gold-domed temple visible for miles around atop Doi Suthep Mountain. Among the lures here are a relic of the Buddha kept in a golden pagoda, and a 300-step staircase lined with serpentine sculptures. The best time to visit is in the early morning, around 7 am, when the monks are going about their daily activities.

The City

"Rose of the North," Chiang Mai is a cultural and natural sanctuary nestled into the foothills of northern Thailand with picturesque mountain backdrop and culturally rich way of life.
A one-hour flights from Bangkok, Chiang Mai is literally and spiritually a long way from the capital to the south. Here in the green and mountainous north, the air is noticeably cooler, the orange-robed monks far more numerous, the pace of life and even the spoken language are slower.

Enclosed by ancient walls and a moat, the 700-year-old city of Chiang Mai reflects tranquilities of thoughts and spirit. Established in the 13th century, Chiang Mai was the capital and the cultural core of the Lanna Kingdom. Wandering around the old city, you will find distinctive art, architecture, and rich historical enchantment of the many peaked-roof temples that fill the city. Beyond the historic center is a dynamic and modern place with artistic yet down-to-earth charm. Scores of ubiquitous galleries and contemporary shop-houses line the city's streets offering creative alternatives alongside the centuries-old reminiscence.

Culture

Chiang Mai, also known as "the Rose of the North," offers an enchanting cultural experience.  The heart of the city is surrounded by a moat and ancient brick gates. Discover centuries-old temples and Lanna architecture enriched with fascinating indigenous cultural identity and traditional heritage.

Doi Suthep Temple
Overlooking the city atop its mountain throne, Doi Suthep temple is one of Northern Thailand's most sacred shrines. Believed to have been founded in 1383 when the first pagoda was built. The temple has expanded over time making the site more extravagant with many more holy shrines added. You have not really seen Chiang Mai until you have climbed the 309 steps to the summit and enjoyed the breathtaking view of the sprawling city.

Chedi Luang Temple
Built around 600 years ago, Chedi Luang temple is home to Chiang Mai's largest Buddhist pagoda.

Phra Sigh Temple
Located inside the old city wall, Phra Singh temple dates back to the 14th century when the city was the capital of the Lanna Kingdom. The temple houses a venerated Buddha image, the Phra Buddha Sihing, which gives the temple its name. One of the finest examples of classic Lanna style architecture, Wat Phra Singh welcomes pilgrims and visitors all year round.

Monk Chat
An inspirational opportunity to learn about the Buddhist way of life, the monk chat is set up to allow local and international visitors to converse with young monks on diverse subjects such as Buddhism and religion while helping young novices improve their linguistic skills by chatting with foreigners. Monk chats operate at various temples throughout the Chiang Mai.

Indigenous Hill Tribes
Chiang Mai is home to six major tribes: the Karen (Kariang Yang), the Hmong (Meo), the Yao (Mien), the Akha (Ekaw), the Lisu (Lisaw), and the Lahu (Mussur). Through the beautiful mountain scenery off-the-beaten-path, experience the local lives of hill tribe villagers, visit local markets, and try traditional food.

Umbrella Painting Village
The colorful hand-painted umbrellas have been crafted in Chiang Mai for the last two centuries. The production process you see today is just as it was 200 years ago with all stages crafted by hand with the aid of some basic rural tools. Discover how these unique and colorful creations are made from Bamboo and Sa Paper, and see the craftsmen at work.

Silk Village
Thai silk is world-renowned, and the majority of Silk products in Thailand are produced in Chiang Mai. Located on San Kamphaeng Road, known as "the handicraft highway," a visit to the Silk Village offers a peak into the arduous yet fascinating process of making silk textiles.

Nature

Located in a lush valley surrounded by some of Thailand's highest mountains, Chiang Mai is endowed with pristine natural resources from soaring mountains, lush green rainforests, and cascading waterfalls. 

Doi Inthanon National Park
Thailand's tallest peak at 2,565 meters above the sea level, Doi Inthanon is part of the Himalayan mountain range. The National Park covers protected area of more than 400 square kilometers, and is a sanctuary for a wide range of plants and animal species.  The Doi Inthanon National Park consists of rugged mountain terrain blanketed by lush tropical forests and dotted with mighty rivers and majestic waterfalls.

View Point at Mon Cham
Part of the many Royal agricultural projects in Chiang Mai, Doi Mon Cham  is located on a ridge at 1,350 meters above sea level overlooking panoramic mountain scenery on both sides. A perfect spot to enjoy the sunrise in cool morning breeze.

Elephant Nature Park
Enjoy a picturesque drive through rural countryside for a visit to the Elephant Nature Park where you can observe free roaming elephants and other animals in natural surroundings.

Mae Sa Waterfall
An eight-tiered tumbling cascade, the Mae Sa Waterfall occupies a spectacular natural setting among gigantic trees and fresh cool breeze. A narrow path winds up through the jungle along the eight levels of the magnificent waterfall.

Chiang Dao Cave
One of the top-rated tourist attractions in Thailand, Chiang Dao cave extends around 12 kilometers into the Doi Chiang Dao mountain. The mystical cave features beautiful crystal formations formed due to dripping waters, and houses a numerous sacred Buddha images.

Orchid nursery and butterfly farm
No two features of nature more beautifully suited each other; discover the beauty of the different types of orchids and colorful butterflies at one of the many orchid nursery and butterfly farms in Chiang Mai.

Adventure

For those looking for adventurous experience, explore Chiang Mai's outdoor and natural beauty with a good dose of adrenaline ? from hot air balloon riding, to ziplining, and to white water rafting.

Hot Air Balloon Ride
Enjoy a truly unforgettable experience flying over breathtaking views of the Ping River valley with stunning scenery of mountains and terraced rice paddies. Sights of Chiang Mai's beautiful temples are also highlights of your flight. The excursion is offered on a seasonal basis from November to February.

A day with the elephant
A favorite activity for visitors of all ages. Connect with the elephants by watching, learning or feeding them. Get up close and personal, and become a mahout for a day and learn all about the lives of these gentle giants.

Whitewater Rafting
An exciting way to explore Chiang Mai's outdoors is to take to the water. With its warm weather, steep mountains, and beautiful scenery, Chiang Mai is perfect for rafting adventures. The 10-kilometers long Mae Tang River running along untouched wilderness and quaint rural hill tribe villages is a popular rafting destination in Chiang Mai. Also a popular trekking area, easily combine your rafting trip with hill tribe trekking.

Ziplining
Just beyond the ancient city of Chiang Mai, discover the great rolling hills and a vast evergreen forest as you zipline from tree to tree on a suspending cable for an unforgettable treetop adventure.

Cycling
A great way to explore Chiang Mai is to get on a bike and discover glorious and distinct local culture. With beautiful mountains and rivers, Chiang Mai also offers some of the most leisurely and scenic mountain biking routes in Thailand.

Hiking
Discover the jungles, mountains, and hill tribes around Chiang Mai on a hiking expedition. A must-go hiking destination not to be missed is a trip to Doi Inthanon National Park whether for a short scenic hike or for a camping trip. Trek up into the hills through the forests and local hill tribe villages, and visit the waterfalls or caves in the area.

Go Local

Chiang Mai is not only a favorite destination for visitors, but also a beloved getaway for local Thais from all over the country. Have you ever wonder how the Thais enjoy this vibrant city? Here are a few ideas and suggestions.

Nimmahemin Street
Nimmahemin Street is a popular place to be for locals and visitors alike. Stroll down the main street and wander up and down the small alleys to browse at locally designed shops. Take time to visit one of the cozy local cafes along the street. 

Khao Soi Khai
A beloved dish by locals, Khao Soi Khai (Chicken Yellow Curry) is Chiang Mai?s signature dish combining two noodle varieties - flat wheat and deep-fried crispy noodles - in a spicy coconut curry. The dish is served with a slice of lime, roast chili paste and pickled cabbage. Try the famous dish at the Resort Sala Mae Rim Thai Restaurant.

Sunday Walking Street
Located right in the center of the old walled city, the Sunday Walking Street is a real showcase of the art and craftsmanship of Northern Thailand. Open every Sunday from 4:00 pm to midnight, stretching for roughly 1 kilometer, the market features a variety of artisan crafts as well as genuine Thai style street entertainment.

Samoeng District
Offering a truly local experience, a short drive from the Resort, the Samoeng District is a small farming community located in an elevated valley. The district is famed for its strawberries and the Samoeng Loop, a 100-kilometre circuit through the mountains ? a favourite for bicycling and motorcycling lovers. It is the perfect place to relax.

Hang Dong District
Through the scenic canal road heading southwest from the city of Chiang Mai, the Hang Dong District is home to the popular handicraft market of Ban Tawai. Known for its expertise in wood carving, Hang Dong has become a popular shopping destination among locals and visitors for sophisticated wooden furniture. Take a break from a couple kilometers of shops in one of the cafes and coffee shops scattered around the area.

Magical Mae Rim

Find your own perfect vacation in the Mae Rim Valley, which is home to an array of natural wonders, active adventures, cultural treasures and amazing wildlife. This is a side of Northern Thailand that is still relatively undiscovered ? a far cry from the oft-trodden streets of Chiang Mai city. Located right in the midst of these unique experiences, the Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai is the ideal base for discerning travellers to explore all this lush valley has to offer.

Michael's Mae Rim
Michael Branham has been the General Manager of Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, located in the heart of the Mae Rim Valley, since April 2015. His earliest memory here is watching the gardeners? parade in the rice fields at sunset. Since then, many an unforgettable experience has been added to his collection!
At the weekend, Michael loves exploring the lush Mae Rim region with his wife and two sons. An active family, they go running and cycling together both in and around the Resort. For a more challenging adventure, the gushing Mae Sa Waterfall offers the perfect day trip: hike up eight cascade levels on one side of the waterfall and come down from the other side, with a midway break for an energizing picnic.
When in the mood for a more relaxed getaway, the Branhams head to the nearby Strawberry Farms, via the Sukantara Cascades. It's a family tradition to have plenty of food on road trips, so the drive there is punctuated by stops at local cafes delicious Thai snacks, pies and ice-cream! On the return journey, it's time to visit the scenic Botanical Garden for a leisurely stroll and the Nong Hoi Royal Project for some fresh organic produce.
Take a leaf out of the Michael's book and discover your very own Mae Rim.

Your Mae Rim

Mon Cham
Mon Cham, also known as Mon Jam, sits atop a small mountain offering a spectacular view of hills, villages, Royal Project farms and valleys rolling into the distance. Enjoy a meal at the restaurant here, which features local produce and hydroponically grown ingredients on the menu. A perfect day trip!  (20.6 km from the Resort)

Wat Phra Phutthabat Si Roi
Wat Phra Phutthabat Si Roi is believed to house not one, but four footprints made by the Buddha! The fascinating legend dates back to the early 7th century, when King Song Tham of Ayutthaya sent a group of monks to Sri Lanka to pray at the Buddha?s famous footprint at Sumankut.
To the monks surprise, the Sri Lankans asked them why they had bothered to travel all that way when, according to the ancient Pali scriptures, the Buddha passed through Thailand and left his footprints in their own backyard. As soon as Song Tham heard this he launched a massive search for the footprints, the first of which was finally discovered in 1623 by a hunter named Pram Bun when a wounded deer disappeared into a hollow and then emerged miraculously healed.
The hunter pushed aside the bushes to discover a foot-shaped trench filled with water, which immediately cured him of a terrible skin disease! A temple was built on the spot but was destroyed by the Burmese in 1765. The present buildings date from the Bangkok era, and is a haven for peace and contemplation. (35.6 km from the Resort)   

Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden
Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, maintained under the auspices of the Thai Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, is home to a lush profusion of trees, plants and flowers?a true treat for nature lovers. Stroll in the beautifully landscaped grounds, visit greenhouses and fountains, and discover rare types of plants and blossoms. There?s even an aerial walkway, suspended above the tropical gardens! (10.8 km from the Resort)  

Wat Pa Daraphirom
Wat Pa Daraphirom was established in 1938 by a group of Buddhists for monks on pilgrimage, who used the former cemetery as a space for meditation?as recommended by their highly revered teacher. Enjoy the lovely architecture and spiritual energy amid the rustic environs of this well-maintained temple. (2.2 km from the Resort)   

Mae Sa Waterfall
Mae Sa Waterfall is actually a series of eight to 10 small waterfalls and cascades (no one can agree on exactly how many), spaced anywhere between 100 metres to 500 metres apart. This is a great spot for a hike: make your way up on one side, and come down from the other. If you're in the mood for a stream-side picnic, the Resort will be happy to whip up a basket of tasty treats! Head to waterfalls in the middle for the most scenic surroundings and interesting configurations. Don?t forget to count the cascades and come up with your own number! (5.3 km from the Resort)  

Siam Insect Zoo
Siam Insect Zoo displays the work of entomologist Pisuth Ek-Amnuay who has been collecting and studying insects for over 30 years. The zoo is home to a huge variety of creatures from around the world. Moreover, there are numerous displays where you can see live insects native to Thailand and a well-stocked butterfly garden perfect for a relaxing walk after checking out the insect life inside. (3.6 km from the Resort)

Sai Nam Phung Orchid and Butterfly Farms
Sai Nam Phung Orchid and Butterfly Farms is home to a huge variety of stunning orchids and a special butterfly enclosure where you can see tropical species in their natural habitat. Discover exotic types of orchid and watch the vibrant butterflies flitting around among the year-round blooms. (800 m from the Resort)   

Elephant Poopoopaper Park
Elephant Poopoopaper Park is an eco-friendly, naturally built, outdoor museum. It introduces and explains the unique steps involved in making paper products from elephant poop fibres! An interpretive walking tour of the lush gardens takes visitors through eight different pavilions, explaining each stage of the process, from poo collection to rinsing to final product assembly.  Visitors are encouraged to roll up their sleeves and join the park's talented artisans and guides participating in the head-turning process. (2.4 km from the Resort)

Golf

With two world-class golf courses at your fingertips, a relaxing day on the links is just minutes away.

Summit Green Valley Country Club
A five-minute drive from Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, world-class Summit Green Valley Country Club's 18-hole, par-72 course contours to the natural terrain. Designed by Dennis Griffiths & Associates, the course is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, cool lakes and superb mountain vistas. Facilities include a club house, pro shop, restaurant, bar and a conference room.

Alpine Golf Resort Chiang Mai
Nestled in a valley in the San Kampaeng natural forest region, Alpine Golf Resort Chiang Mai is undoubtedly one of region?s most beautiful courses. World-renowned course designer Ron M Garl took his inspiration from the magnificent mountains to create a course that is a joy to play while challenging golfers of all levels.

Chiang Mai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort
Set in the foot-hills east of Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai Highlands was designed by Schmidt-Curley Design giving golfers the distraction of magnificent views on every hole. Chiang Mai Highlands has been heralded as one of the best golf experiences in Asia. The design offers a combination of unique holes presenting challenges for every part of your game and is the type of design you never tire of playing.

Tennis

Former number one world tennis player and a multiple Grand Slam winner Jim Courier has a passion to help tennis players of all levels experience the Jim Courier Tennis philosophy. He provides services at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai and other selected resorts around the world.
The New York-based Tennis Teaching Pros, one of the top suppliers of tennis coaches in the hospitality industry, is focused on providing the best on-court experience for people who expect nothing less.

Pilates

Find your natural rhythm, strengthen your core and grow in flexibility with Original Pilates at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai.

Resort Activities

Nature
Keep you day simple and stay right here at the Resort. You will find plenty of options for lazy relaxation amid the Resort's lush green rice paddies and jungle-garden.

Nature Trail
A seemingly endless variety of exotic plants and flowers make up the Resort?s extraordinary landscape. Take the guided Nature Trail tour or discover these tropical varieties of plants at your leisure.

Rice Planting
Learning how rice is planted can be a rewarding experience. Join the farmers as they transplant sprouts from seedbeds to the ricefields. You will wear the morhom, a farmer's traditional costume, available from the Tennis Club and Health Club.
Visit Mr. Tong and his stepbrother Mr. Tone at the Rice Barn while you are on the field. Don't forget your camera as they both love having their pictures taken.

Bicycling around the Resort
Enjoy a refreshing bike ride through the Resort and rice paddy fields.

Culture

Discover active enjoyment at the Resort as you experience the beauty of Lanna culture. For more ideas and details, our Concierge is always pleased to assist you.

Thai Cooking Lesson at Rim Tai Kitchen
Rim Tai Kitchen at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai introduces guests  both novice and expert.

Introductory Thai
Learn just enough of the Thai language to give you an opportunity to interact with the locals.

Thai Kickboxing
Learn Lanna Muay Thai ? the sport of northern-Thai-style kickboxing. The lessons are challenging, the workout is fun, and the memories are unforgettable. Also receive a Lanna Muay Thai T-shirt as a souvenir.

Morning Monk Offering
Show your respect and devotion to Buddha by following the same procedures as the local Thai people. By making a merit to the monks, you offer food and in return you receive a blessing.

Family activities

Elephant trek
Get you very own elephant for a day at Elephant Life Experience. You'll get hands-on mahout training, and you can enjoy a picnic in the jungle.

Mountain biking
Wake up early, choose a complimentary bike the Resort's Health Club and explore the Mae Rim neighbourhood. See charming villages and the local temple, Wat Pa Darapirom, where you can offer food to the monks.

Be a local farmer.
In the land of a million rice fields, you can learn how rice is planted right alongside the farmers. Your family will learn about rice in Thai culture and take part in the harvesting process, all while wearing the traditional mor hom. Join in on this experience every Tuesday and Saturday morning.

Family cooking class
Sign up for a family cooking class at the Resort's Cooking School . Group classes are in the morning and private classes are in the afternoon.

Hit the road
Chiang Mai has so much to discover on foot, especially with kids. Wander around the Old City to discovery northern Thai history and culture before heading up Doi Suthep mountain to visit one of the most sacred temples, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Pay your respects to a holy Buddha relic, and enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the mountain top. (It's also the perfect spot for watching the sunset.) After dark, try a Chiang Mai Night Safari'a fun and unique chance to see rare wildlife.

Children

The Gecko Club at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai welcomes children ages 4 to 12 and offers complimentary games and activities daily. Kids under 4 are welcome to join when accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Meals can be ordered in advance by parents for children who participate in the program.

Sample activities

The Gecko Club at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai provides a safe and welcoming place for our young guests to immerse themselves in the natural surrounding as well as the local culture through interactive activities, and simply to have fun!

•     Garden Tour with Flower Garland
•     Sa Paper Picture Frame Making
•     Kite Making
•     Clay Pot Creation
•     Stone Painting
•     Paper Plate Flying
•     Making a Vegetable Garden
•     Make a Paper Mosaic
•     Animals and Insect Searching
•     Extensive collections of books and video games

Activities

Set in the Mae Rim Valley, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai is the place where you and the family can immerse yourselves in authentic Thai culture.
From exploring the Resort's extensive gardens, learning the art of Thai cooking and planting sprouts in the rice fields to stretching yoga poses at the Rice Barn and relaxing at the spa, there is something for everyone in the family. With advance notice, we can arrange themed babysitting services that will allow grown-ups to enjoy some much-needed alone time.

• Rice Planting

Become Thai farmers for a day, and share a rewarding experience learning how rice is grown. Get ready in the Mor Hom (traditional farmer costume) and join the farmers transplanting sprouts in the lush green rice fields.

• Nature Trails & Buffalo Visit

Spend family bonding time together enjoying the natural beauty of the Resort?s acclaimed gardens, designed by famed landscape Architect Bill Bensley. Discover tropical plants, exotic herbs, and edible flowers right on Resort's ground. Stop by the Rice Barn, and meet Mr. Tong and his stepbrother Mr. Tone. Don't forget your camera as they both love having their pictures taken.

• Cooking Class

Embark on a culinary adventure and sign up for a family cooking class at Rim Tai Kitchen, where the kids will be inspired to cook for you back at home.

• Muay Thai Boxercise

Lanna Muay Thai trains some of the best fighters in Thailand and their trainer is available to give you and your family a fun, challenging workout you won't forget.

• Yoga for Youngster

A great introduction to yoga for young ones and teens, Yoga for Youngster focuses on simple breathing techniques, yoga postures, stretching, relaxation and visualization that will help children increase their flexibility, strength, coordination, and build self-esteem and confidence. Family packages are also available.

• Spa for Kids

Looking good and feeling good is just as important to little girl as it is to big girls, so the Spa at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai has created a menu of treatments that can be enjoyed by little ones on their own ? or by parents and kids together.

• Babysitting service

With 24 hours notice, we can arrange reliable babysitting service for your little ones. We will do our best to accommodate requests with shorter notice. Please note that there is an hourly fee for this service, and additional fees applies for hours after 9:00 pm. For more information, please contact our Concierge.

Private Dining Experiences 

In-Pavilion Dining
At Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, In-Pavilion Dining is a 24-hour fine-dining experience within the comfort and convenience of your pavilion, villa or residence suite. Choose from an extensive menu, day or night, ideal for time-zone-hopping travellers or for quiet, private dining.

Private Reserve at the Rice Barn
A private dining venue exclusively reserved for two for the night, the Rice Barn at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion at any time of year. Savour an exquisite five-course meal under shimmering moonlight by the Resort's rice paddies and lake. Candlelight at your artfully set table, decorated with intricate flower arrangements, and soft background music enhance the atmosphere, creating a night to remember.

Breakfast in the Rice Fields
Imagine starting the day surrounded by the beauty of lush, green rice fields, relaxing in the cool morning breeze, a personal butler arriving with a glass of chilled sparkling wine.
Start your day amid lush, green rice fields, relaxing in a cool morning breeze, and indulging in Chef's delectable new breakfast. Inspired by childhood memories of grandma's lovingly composed breakfasts back home in France, Chef Stephane Calvet has created an ideal accompaniment to the serene scenery , a delectable menu with the energy and inspiration to set you up for another amazing day in Chiang Mai.

Romancing In The Sala
Savour the resort's sweet ambiance over a delectable Thai set menu specially created with romance in mind and served to you in an enchanting Thai sala pavilion in the garden.

Dining & Drinking

Sala Mae Rim
Savour the unique flavours of Northern Thai specialties at Sala Mae Rim restaurant at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, renowned for its sumptuous Thai cuisine. A high teak ceiling complements Northern Thai artefacts and sweeping views of the Mae Rim Valley. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Afternoon Tea
Enjoying panoramic views of rice fields and the mountains of Mae Rim Valley while sipping tea at Sala Mae Rim is the perfect way to spend your afternoon.

Terraces
Terraces showcases home-style Italian cuisine with a menu guided by authentic flavours and exceptional ingredients - from local natural produces to imported Australian Darling Down Wagyu beef. The restaurant, complementing the Resort's Lanna-style architecture, offers a stunning open-air setting with an expansive view of the surrounding rice paddies and the distant Doi Suthep mountain.

Ratree Bar and Lounge
Relax with a book or a game of billiards at the Ratree Bar and Lounge during the day, or gather in the evening to watch the sunset from the carved wood infinity swing.

Elephant Bar
This is the perfect place to watch the sun set as you relax on the terrace under large Thai umbrellas with charming elephant stands. This open, pavilion-style lounge at the Resort offers a truly relaxing atmosphere. Enjoy a creative selection of cocktails, after-dinner drinks and refreshments.

Thai Kitchen Live
For a novel way to learn all about one of the world's favourite cuisines, join the Rim Tai Kitchen intimate Thai dining experience.  Multiple interactive live cooking stations await your exploration, ranging from traditional salads to authentic Thai curries and steamed delicacies to dishes from the wok. Participate in the cooking experience with the chef. Enhance your Thai Kitchen Live experience further with wines from Southern Thailand, local beer and handcrafted sprits from Mae Rim district.

Sunday Brunch Experience
Join us for the brand new Sunday brunch experience every Sunday from 11:30 am to 3:00 pm in the vibrant open-kitchen style atmosphere of Rim Tai Kitchen. Enjoy your favourite concoctions with live music and a wide selection of international cuisine, ranging from Mediterranean antipasti, delectable seafood on ice, succulent meats from the grill, pan seared foie gras, Italian pasta and Indian cuisine. 
Children can enjoy an array of activities through the afternoon including a complimentary tennis lesson from our instructor and the Nature Trail program through the resort. Enjoy access to our Residence Pool located beside The Spa.

Street Food
Many a food critic has sung the praises of street food in Chiang Mai  and with good reason. The bustling streets of the city are home to hundreds of street food vendors, offering up what seems like an unlimited array of exotic dishes.
Beloved classics include Khao Soi (a mild coconut curry with egg noodles), Som Tam (spicy young papaya salad), slow-grilled pork, fiery herb sausages, mango with sticky rice, and thin Rotis (pancakes) with sweet treats like condensed milk or fruit.
While the spread is tantalizing it can certainly be intimidating for foreign visitors, especially because of the language barrier. That's where a personal guide can really help you make the most of your explorations. Discover the unfamiliar cuisine at your own pace and experiment to the degree that you find comfortable. Your guide will translate, recommend the best dishes based on your preferences, lead you to hidden gems, and give you a deeper insight into the fascinating realm of Thai street food.

Local Herbs
Did you know pressing a bulb of lemongrass helps release its zesty notes. Or that a sprig of Thai basil can breathe new life into your cup of tea. Or that steeping galangal in a sweet and sour soup softens its pungency? Thailand is a treasure trove of aromatic herbs  and they're full of surprisesThe Cooking School experience at the Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai is a great way to explore the world of Thai herbs, the heart and soul of the region's flavorful food. Begin your day with a visit to the local market, where your guide will help you choose fresh ingredients for the class  and snag you some delicious morning snacks as well.
At the Cooking School, Chef will demonstrate insider kitchen techniques and reveal the secrets hidden in local herbs. Whip up authentic Thai specialties and, later, enjoy the fruits of your labor at a specially laid table overlooking tree-lined mountains. Take your new-found expertise (and recipe pack!) back home and wow your family and friends with a true-blue Thai meal.
For more herbal goodness, visit Chef' charming Organic Garden, which stars Thai basil and lemongrass. Pick your own garnish for dinner at Sala Mae Rim or a stalk of lemongrass to liven up your evening cuppa!

Meet the Chef
Our Executive Chef is reason enough for culinary adventurers to come visit us! From French Sunday markets by the Mediterranean Sea to the rice valleys of Chiang Mai, Chef Stéphane Calvet has been on a food journey for decades  and he's passionate about sharing his love of good food. His pride and joy is the organic garden, abloom with herbs and vegetables both local and European.
Here is a peep into Chef's inspirations, journey and cooking secrets.
Who inspired you to be a Chef?

The Royal Project
An initiative of His Majesty, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the Royal Project is the heart and soul of healthy eating in Thailand. Founded to counter deforestation, poverty, and opium production, it has blossomed into one of the most successful projects of its type. The Royal Project promotes sustainable farming practices (versus slash-and-burn techniques) and alternative, often "exotic" crops in Northern Thailand. Organic produce has also become a priority: vegetables and fruit are grown using non-GMO techniques and materials.

At the Doi Kham branch of the Royal Project, on the outskirts of Chiang Mai, you will find a profusion of fresh vegetables, fruits, flowers, and herbs. Think carrots, broccoli, kiwi, avocado, carnations, mint, rosemary, basil it's a vibrant medley of sights and smells for any food lover!

As you enjoy the blend of indigenous and "Western" ingredients, you can also feel good about the fact that you're supporting meaningful change in Thailand. The Royal Project helps to provide much-needed healthcare, universal schooling, and social welfare in the areas where it is active. There is a special focus on including valuable local knowledge in the farming approach and making communities (especially the Hill Tribes) self-reliant in the long run, worthy causes, indeed!

Spa

Step into the Spa at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai and enter a luxurious temple of harmony for body, mind and spirit  an indulgent sanctuary created exclusively for your pleasure and well-being.
Our spa treatments are divided according to Thailand's social harmony.
The concept of social harmony is very important, from consideration for others to maintaining one's own equilibrium. Traditionally, the Thai social system is arranged into six distinct groups: Servers, Farmers, Craftsmen, Noblemen, Royalty and Monks. Each group is recognised for its own unique beauty, wisdom and humbleness, and offers many gifts to the wider society.

• Massages
• Body Treatments
• Facial Treatments

Yoga

Yoga  meaning "union and merger" in Sanskrit  has its roots in Indian metaphysical philosophy. Practising yoga, we strive to bring a balance between the mind and body by remembering our true nature and our deepest self. Yogic movement, breathing, postures, relaxation and meditation help us achieve this ultimate aim. Meanwhile, as we practise, yoga helps our body by realigning its posture, improving flexibility, strengthening our muscles and achieving harmony within our internal organs. Our yoga classes will help you to breath properly, strengthen your body, rebalance your nervous system and find your inner calm.
You can be sure of a fully-rounded, yogic experience with our deeply talented resident yogi Dheeraj Singh Patwal, who learnt his art as a child in Rishikesh and has trained with yoga masters all over the world.

Salon Services

Designed in the Lanna style, the salon in the Spa at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai has large windows covered with sa paper, which is made from mulberry trees, and features relaxing lounge chairs for a traditional Thai hair wash and head massage, as well as stations for shampooing and blow drying. A selection of spa services, including manicures, pedicures and specialized hair treatments, is offered to keep you looking and feeling your best.

Business Services

Around the clock, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai can assist you with business, entertainment or travel arrangements through the Business Centre and resourceful, multilingual Concierge.

Business amenities and services

•     24-hour business services available daily
•     Airline reservation service
•     Audiovisual equipment
•     Computers
•     Currency exchange service
•     Translation and interpretation service
•     Secretarial service
•     Translation and interpretation service
•     Wired or wireless Internet access

Note: Fees may apply. Please contact our Concierge for after hours use of the Business Centre

Seasonal highlights

January - March

•     Thai New Year's Eve has its biggest countdown event in Bangkok's Central World Square, with several hundred thousand revelers attending each year. When the sun comes up, head to temples to ensure a happy and prosperous year follows.
•     Chiang Mai Flower Festival. Held in Nong Buak Had Park, Amphor Muang is a local tradition and a perfect opportunity to see colourful African marigolds, globe amaranths, orchids, Ban Chun, chrysanthemums, celosia and assorted roses.
•     Chinese New Year is celebrated in China. The streets come to life with crowds of celebrants, exploding firecrackers and dragon dancers.

April - June

•     Songkran Festival takes place in April, the hottest month of the Thai year. To combat the scorching heat, celebrants have friendly water fights and street parties throughout the week. Chiang Mai is the most popular city to celebrate Songkran in.

October - December

•     Vegetarian Festival is an opportunity to taste creative, mouthwatering vegetarian dishes. Restaurants and street stalls will put up yellow flags to announce their intention to serve pure vegetarian food for the length of the festival.
•     The Moon Festival, or Loy Krathong, is a mid-Autumn celebration to give thanks and ask for wishes to be granted. Believers decorate small boats with flowers, coins, and candles, and then release them into the water as an offering to Khongha, the water goddess.
•     Christmas is celebrated is Thailand, with impressive decorations, light displays and events held throughout December.