The top 15 Best Hostels in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a popular spot with backpackers traveling in Thailand. It's easy to see why - this vibrant city in the North of the country captivates visitors with its unique blend of ancient temples, bustling markets, and vibrant cultural heritage.
The city's popularity with travelers over the years means it's a very backpacker-friendly destination, and there is no shortage of great places to stay.
Whether you're a budget backpacker or simply seeking a social atmosphere, Chiang Mai has a huge variety of hostels that cater to all tastes and preferences. This can make finding the right hostel an overwhelming task. Fear not… we've put together a list of the 15 best hostels in Chiang Mai to help you find the perfect accommodation for your stay.
Hidden Garden Hostel
Hidden Garden Hostel is one of the highest rated in the area, and for good reason - it's located in the center of town, features beautiful decor, and even has a swimming pool! The staff are incredibly friendly, and the hostel hosts a range of tours great for meeting other backpackers. There are plenty of communal areas to socialize in, and the dorms are clean and modern. What more can you ask for?!
Stamps Backpackers
Stamps Backpackers is the place to be if you're looking to meet new friends. It has a lively atmosphere, and the staff hosts group activities every night, perfect for bringing people together. The hostel has a bit of a cult status amongst travelers, and it's very well known - which means it books up pretty far in advance. Make sure to book your bed early if you want to stay here.
Hostel Lullaby
If you're heading to Chiang Mai to relax, meditate, and immerse yourself in local culture - Hostel Lullaby is the place for you. It's a small, family-run hostel in the heart of the old town and is the perfect base for exploring Chiang Mai's many temples. Lullaby runs free weekly cooking classes for guests, regular yoga sessions, and even Thai Kickboxing lessons!
Mad Monkey Hostel
If you've been traveling around Thailand (or other parts of Asia) for a while, you'll likely be familiar with this chain of hostels. Known for its vibrant social scene, Mad Monkey Hostel organizes daily activities such as pub crawls, cooking classes, and group hikes. The hostel hosts a busy calendar of events and drinking games and has a pool and plenty of communal areas - it's arguably Chiang Mai's best party hostel.
Green Sleep Hostel
Green Sleep Hostel provides cozy dorms, private rooms, and a communal garden. It features modern decor and lots of shared spaces to meet fellow travelers. There is a TV in the main space and each private room, each of which comes loaded up with Netflix. Green Sleep's central location and communal kitchen make it an excellent base for exploring Chiang Mai.
84 Gallery
84 Gallery is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers, with dorms starting from just 220 THB per night. Staff at the hostel are friendly and helpful, and there's a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The beds are comfy, the dorms are very clean, and there's even a small gym to use during your stay.
About a Bed
Located near the old town, About A Bed is a highly-rated hostel with a super laid-back atmosphere. The dorms are incredibly comfortable, and the cabin-style beds feature curtains, providing great privacy. The staff at the hostel are very welcoming, and free towels are provided during your stay.
Smile Robotist
Another excellent hostel choice is Smile Robotist. The owner is a fantastic local guide and is on hand to provide guests with detailed recommendations for sightseeing and where to eat and drink in the local area. The hostel offers breakfast and snacks, and all dorms are air-conditioned.
Amaka bed and Breakfast
This hostel has been recently renovated, and its rooms are beautifully decorated to a tasteful and modern standard. As the name implies - Amaka serves breakfast to guests in the cafe next door. The food is excellent; they even offer takeaway options for anyone heading out for the day!
Alexa Nimman
Alexa Nimman is a fantastic choice for digital nomads or anyone working while traveling. Its speedy wifi, trendy design, and clean and spacious communal areas make it the perfect workplace. The rooms are bright and clean, and the hostel is close to plenty of restaurants and bars.
What’s Up, Chiang Mai
If you want to avoid the craziness of staying in the city center, you won't find a better hostel than What's Up Chiang Mai. Situated in a quiet neighborhood, the hostel is a ten-minute walk away from the center of Chiang Mai, so it's still a great base to explore. It also contains a beautiful pool - the perfect way to unwind after lots of sightseeing.
Bloomin’ Moon
Bloomin' Moon is a quaint little hostel offering a home-away-from-home atmosphere - perfect if you've been traveling for a long time and want to feel at home. It offers private and dorm accommodation, and its location in the heart of the old town is perfect.
The PARK Society
This lovely, leafy hostel is ideal for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. The PARK Society has many outdoor areas surrounded by plants and greenery, perfect for relaxing and unwinding. The staff here are amiable, and it's a great spot to meet other travelers.
Hug Hostel Rooftop
Last (but definitely not least!) on the list is Hug Hostel Rooftop. This hostel has arguably the best rooftop out of all of Chiang Mai's hostels - it's the perfect place to catch the sunset with an ice-cold beer in hand and new friends by your side. Hug Hostel is centrally located, clean, and run by a very friendly bunch of staff.
Whether you're looking for a social atmosphere, a quiet retreat, or a place to work from - Chiang Mai has a hostel to suit every traveler's needs. This list will help you find the perfect place to stay while exploring this incredible city.
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