Travel Guide: The Chiang Mai Old Town - SHA Extra Plus

Nestled in the heart of Chiang Mai’s historic core, The Chiang Mai Old Town - SHA Extra Plus is perfectly positioned for travelers who want to immerse themselves in northern Thailand’s rich culture, laid-back charm, and centuries-old heritage. This certified clean and safe accommodation blends modern comfort with traditional Lanna-inspired design, making it a top pick for couples, families, and solo explorers alike.

Hotel Overview

Located at 184 Ratchamanka Road, Si Phum, this 5-star certified hotel puts you steps from Chiang Mai’s most iconic temples and walking streets. Guest facilities cater to every travel need: all rooms feature air conditioning, free WiFi, tea and coffee making facilities, a flat-screen TV with Netflix, a private en-suite bathroom with free toiletries, bathrobes, and slippers, plus amenities like a refrigerator and electric kettle. Family and connecting rooms are available, and all accommodations are 100% non-smoking, with accessibility options for travelers with reduced mobility.

On-site amenities include a year-round open-air landscape pool surrounded by sun loungers and tropical gardens, a fully equipped fitness center, and a full-service spa offering everything from foot massages to couples’ treatments with local herbal blends. The hotel’s breakfast consistently earns rave reviews from guests, with options for special dietary needs, kid-friendly meals, and fresh local fruit. Additional perks include free on-site parking, 24-hour front desk service, luggage storage, tour booking assistance, bicycle rental, and paid guided cycling tours around the old town.

Nearby Local Attractions

Three unmissable attractions are all within a 15-minute walk of the hotel:

• Wat Phra Singh: A 14th-century Lanna temple famed for its stunning gilded chedi and intricate traditional wood carvings. This active temple hosts the annual Yi Peng lantern festival opening ceremonies and offers quiet courtyards perfect for watching local monks go about their daily routines.
• Sunday Night Walking Street: Starting just two blocks from the hotel, this weekly night market stretches along Ratchadamnoen Road, with hundreds of stalls selling handcrafted northern Thai textiles, silver jewelry, street food, and local art. It’s one of the best places in Chiang Mai to experience authentic local culture and pick up unique souvenirs.
• Wat Chedi Luang: Home to the ruins of a massive 15th-century chedi that once housed the Emerald Buddha, this ancient temple sits right in the center of old Chiang Mai, less than a 10-minute walk from the hotel. Visitors can climb the lower terraces for panoramic views of the old city skyline dotted with temple spires.

Travel Tips

Book your stay in advance during peak season (November to February) when Chiang Mai’s cool weather draws crowds from around the world. Ask the concierge to arrange a private early-morning alms giving ceremony with local monks, a memorable cultural experience that starts just steps from the hotel entrance. If you’re planning day trips to surrounding hill tribes or waterfalls, the front desk can book reliable transportation, and you can leave any extra luggage stored for free during your outing. Don’t forget to pack modest clothing (covered shoulders and knees) for temple visits—you can pick up a cheap, lightweight scarf at the Sunday market just around the corner if you forget.