Travel Guide: De Chai Colonial Hotel & Spa - SHA Plus, Chiang Mai

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Chiang Mai’s bustling historic district, De Chai Colonial Hotel & Spa blends 19th-century Lanna colonial charm with modern comfort for travelers exploring northern Thailand. Certified SHA Plus for enhanced health and safety standards, this boutique property is perfectly positioned for first-time visitors and returning guests alike, putting Chiang Mai’s most iconic cultural landmarks and street food hubs within easy walking distance.

Hotel Overview

Set at 6/3 Thapae Road Soi 4, Tambon Changklan, De Chai Colonial caters to every type of traveler, from solo explorers to multi-generational families. All rooms are air-conditioned, non-smoking, and equipped with tea and coffee facilities, a flat-screen TV, free WiFi, a private bathroom with a deep soaking bathtub, free toiletries, bathrobes, and a hairdryer. Some rooms open out onto city views, while higher categories feature extended beds over two meters long for extra comfort.

On-site amenities include a year-round indoor saltwater pool with a covered rain shelter and a poolside bar, perfect for cooling off after a day of temple hopping. The full-service spa and wellness center offers everything from traditional Thai massages and body scrubs to facials and light therapy, with additional paid access to a sauna and steam room. Guests rave about the hotel’s exceptional breakfast spread, and the on-site restaurant serves local and international dishes throughout the day, with paid happy hour and a fully stocked bar for evening drinks. Services include 24-hour front desk support, free luggage storage, tour booking, airport transfers, and daily housekeeping, with bike rental available to explore the city at your own pace. Note that there is no on-site parking, so guests driving should arrange nearby parking in advance.

Nearby Attractions

Three unmissable local attractions are just a short walk or bike ride from the hotel:

• Thapae Gate: The historic eastern entrance to Chiang Mai’s Old City, just five minutes from the hotel. This iconic landmark is framed by ancient brick walls, and comes alive every Sunday evening with the famous Walking Street Market, where you can browse handmade crafts, sample street food, and watch live local music.
• Wat Phra Singh: A 10-minute walk into the Old City, this revered 14th-century temple showcases intricate Lanna architecture and houses the revered Phra Singh Buddha statue. Its quiet, tree-shaded grounds are perfect for exploring traditional northern Thai temple design.
• Chang Khlan Night Bazaar: A 15-minute stroll south of the hotel, this bustling night market offers everything from silk scarves and handmade souvenirs to street food stalls serving khao soi and mango sticky rice, with open-air bars for evening relaxation.

Travel Tips

Request a higher floor room for quieter surroundings and better city views, and book spa treatments in advance, especially during peak tourist season from November to February. Grab one of the hotel’s rental bikes to explore the Old City’s narrow lanes—most attractions are within 2 kilometers, and biking avoids Chiang Mai’s midday traffic. The hotel’s airport transfer service is reasonably priced and far more convenient than hailing a taxi on arrival, and the front desk can book same-day temple tours or elephant sanctuary visits outside the city for you. Finally, keep in mind that Chiang Mai is a conservative, temple-going region—pack modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for day trips to local religious sites.