Queer travel expert Jack Kenworthy turns 250+ city adventures into your guide for safe, vibrant, and inclusively fabulous global journeys.
Nestled in the heart of Thailand, Chiang Mai is a beacon of culture, acceptance, and celebration for the queer community, offering a vibrant yet intimate experience unlike the bustling scenes of Bangkok or the vibrant shores of Pattaya and Phuket.
Here, the charm lies not in the sheer number of venues but in the quality of connections and experiences, crafting unforgettable moments of joy and camaraderie for every visitor.
The city’s commercial scene may appear subdued with just a few go-go and host bars, but the real essence of Chiang Mai’s LGBT nightlife shines through its array of welcoming bars. These spots do more than serve drinks; they open windows to the city’s rich queer culture, offering a platform for stories and friendship to flourish.
Beneath its calm exterior, the city conceals a thriving LGBT nightlife that beckons those in search of genuine nocturnal adventures. Club One Seven is notable not only as a fantastic accommodation option but also as a celebrated sauna, embodying the warmth and inclusivity that the city is known for. In Chiang Mai, travelers will discover a sanctuary of welcome, a place where the spirit of acceptance and the pursuit of happiness are woven into the very fabric of the city.
Embark on a journey here, where every corner, every encounter, and every sunset invites you to celebrate your true self in a city that cherishes diversity in all its forms.
Local life is still significantly harder for LGBT citizens than their straight counterparts and many experience prejudices or violence in their everyday life. Chiang Mai’s last gay pride was held in 2009 and has since been permanently halted after Red Shirt supporters threatened the parade with violence.
In this case, homophobia won out, and the political changes that swept the country- and continue to – had a negative effect on the local LGBT community.
Much like the cases in Istanbul, Bucharest, Budapest, and Jakarta, this is incredibly sad news and a poignant reminder to us in the Western world that the fight is far from over for global LGBT equality and acceptance. We can only hope shortly this situation changes, and Chiang Mai Pride once again returns as an important bastion of queer visibility!
Away from the subdued gay scene, Chiang Mai is a temple galore, lush forest, peaceful country village, incredible street food and luxe hotels. If you are traveling to Thailand for a gay blowout – this is not the place for you.
But if you want a hint of Thai life away from the beach and cities, to slow down and relax and perhaps to enjoy a few casual nights out with your global LGBT family, then Gay Chiang Mai is waiting for you!
In this article we will cover...
Top Attractions in Chiang Mai
Obviously, being gay does not define which attractions most of us will want to see in each city, and most queer travelers will simply want to check out the top things to see in Chiang Mai during the day! There is so much to do here – but we found our favorite memories were getting lost on quiet backstreets, exploring temples and taking a minute to relax and recharge our batteries after a wild night out!
One of the best tips we can give you for exploring Gay Chiang Mai is to pre-order a travel SIM card for easy airport pickup and activation the moment you arrive, so you will not pay a fortune in international roaming charges.
Get restaurants recommendation and reservations on the fly, public transport instructions up to the minute, bar opening hours and, if it is your thing – access to gay hook-up apps to find out more about the local scene.
Mobile data is fast, cheap and available almost everywhere in Asia, so it is no wonder most travelers choose to stay connected and get off the beaten track (without ever worrying about getting lost). So why wait? Pre-order the best local SIM card now to have it waiting for you in Thailand when you arrive.
Still – it helps to have some idea of what is going on, so here are the most popular attractions in Chiang Mai according to us…
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Not to be missed on any Chiang Mai intermarry, this world-famous night market takes place at sundown as entire streets are covered in every possible type of good you can imagine.
Pick up some fun handicrafts, practice your bargaining skills or just enjoy the delicious street food and overall atmosphere. Most of the gay bars in Chiang Mai are located around this crazy circus, so you can duck into one or the other to avoid the craziness for a few minutes… or longer.
Spend a day at Doi Inthanon National Park and immerse yourself in northern Thailand’s rich, natural bounty. See the Wachiritharn Waterfall and get incredible panoramic views of the park from the King and Queen’s chedis (Buddhist stupas). Make it to the perch of Thailand’s highest peak, and take in the vast expanse of forest and greenery.
Doi Suthep-Chiang Mai City Temple Tour
Visit one of Thailand’s most iconic temples, Doi Suthep Sacred Holy Temple/ See the beautiful Bhubing Palace, a royal winter residence built in 1961 and discover the cultural and historical significant Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang temples.
Make a day trip to see Chiang Rai’s iconic black-and-white landmarks. See the beautifully eerie and intricate Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple, designed by National Artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. Afterward, stop by the Black House, a museum and the home of National Artist Dr. Thawan Duchanee, and see its incredible interiors and bone displays.
Let loose and take off via para plane, flying approx. 50m above the ground. Don’t miss the sunrise overlooking the gorgeous view of Chiang Mai during this 15-minute ride! All equipment and training will be provided by a skilled instructor and pilot.
Experience the rich culture and food of the Akha people, a community that became Thai citizens in the 1900s. Get a thorough introduction to Northern Thailand’s unique cuisine as you learn to prepare an array of Thai and Akha dishes.
Have fun exploring the local market and observe the way of life as you shop for fresh ingredients to create a delicious meal that includes a combination of soups, desserts, appetizers, and more…
Raft down 10 km on Chiang Mai’s beautiful Mae Taeng River. Several whitewater rafting activities will provide you with multi-dimensional training and experience where you can enjoy stunning Chiang Mai’s nature: green valleys, magnificent hills, and exotic fauna. If you are worried, don’t be! Professional coaches guarantee your safety throughout the activity and do all the hard work…
Visit five different hill tribe villages in Chiang Mai and get to know their culture and customs. Meet the people from the Akha, Lisu, Palong, White Karen, and Black Lahu communities. En route, visit the Chiang Dao Caves and Temple.
Spend a full day trekking through the astonishing flora and fauna that make Northern Thailand so exceptional. You will traverse streams, and valleys, and trek along the mountain while experiencing the pure surrounding beauty on this fabulous day trip.
Catch a glimpse of hill tribe villages and friendly locals working in the area and enjoy a delicious Thai lunch. The perfect opportunity to explore, get active, and relax – all at the same time – and a highlight of any trip to Gay Chiang Mai! What, it’s not all late-night bars and spas, you know…
Gay Songkran
The Thai New Years’ Festival, where the entire country shuts down and turns into one big water fight. An amazing holiday experience to plan around – gay or straight – but we gay boys seem to have a particular fondness for it, and most gay venues in Chiang Mai (and Thailand) are packed in anticipation of scantily clad boys running around.
Gay-Friendly and Gay Hotels in Chiang Mai
As a world leader in gay tourism, there are hotels and hostels in Chiang Mai catering to every type of traveler – and it would be unheard of for any hotel or guesthouse to have an issue with a gay couple checking it.
Still, everyone likes to be surrounded by like-minded people, and as such, a few gay hotels in Chiang Mai have cropped up as places for gay travelers to stay!
Chiang Mai also has a vast range of accommodations available, with everything from five-star luxury hotels to backpacker guest houses or bed and breakfasts at reasonable prices.
Or, if you are considering having guests over, you could consider a private apartment in Chiang Mai (but we like the safety and security of hotels that keep the boy’s ID at reception to ensure your safety). Whether you want a fun and social hostel, a cheap place to crash after a night of partying or a chic luxury option with a pool to spend the day lying by – Gay Chiang Mai is something for everyone!
Club One Seven Gay Men Hotel ☆☆☆
The only true gay hotel in Chiang Mai found on a beautiful old property where many original features have been maintained and respected. Added in the onsite gay sauna, penis-shaped swimming pool, male massage, food and optional cruising.
The staff are amiable, speak excellent English and are always happy to give tips on gay life in Chiang Mai. The fresh daily breakfast was nice, and the hotel is only about 20 minute ride from the city center but right by the relaxing river. There is also an on-site gym. If you are looking for an easy hook-up or simply to relax with other gay guests, this is the place to go – If not, there are much better hotels in town.
Anantara Chiang Mai Resort ☆☆☆☆☆
Romantic riverside serenity in the heart of Chiang Mai, this gay-popular luxury hotel is perfect for escaping reality for a few days.. or more. Relax on your balcony daybed, or at the adults-only pool. Delve into local culture with Muay Thai boxing, healing spa therapies and cooking class adventures.
Savor afternoon tea on the veranda, Asian flavors in the colonial house, or Peruvian and Indian specialties on a waterfront deck. We also loved the minimalist Asian design, surreal gardens, and hyper-Instagrammable rooms!
An upscale urban resort blending European design with Lanna Thai charm close to the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and all its gay bars. Experience world-class service, chic guest rooms with views of Doi Suthep mountain or the city, a pampering spa, an outdoor swimming pool and four separate dining options. One of the most affordable Le Meridien locations in the world, this is a fabulous splurge option.
An affordable 5-star hotel close to the gay bars in Chiang Mai and a well-known hotspot for gay travelers. Inside expect beautiful décor, an outdoor pool, one of Thailand’s best restaurants and the award-winning Devarana Spa. There is also a top-floor gym with panoramic views on the top floor.
A lush resort with modern Thai décor, a spa, outdoor pool close to the gay scene of Chiang Mai. Spacious rooms with green views, welcoming staff and a very tranquil vibe conducive to relaxing. The perfect blend of modern and traditional styles.
A comfortable stay in intriguing contemporary design. With only 18 rooms and two suites, guests here always feel like VIPs, and the near-perfect reviews prove it. While the Rodman might lack the big-budget amenities of larger hotels, all the staff are really helpful and friendly, the location is phenomenal, and there is free bike hire and a pool to relax by.
A unique and charming boutique property that nestles in the heart of historic Chiang Mai. Surrounded by ancient temples and quaint shopping streets, it takes its name from the magnificent 200-year-old tamarind tree that shelters the hotel in a shady embrace.
Set around a series of garden courtyards, the 41 guest rooms and five suites reflect the rich ethnic diversity of northern Thailand by using fabrics and patterns drawn from various tribes of the region. Intimate, serene and relaxing, Tamarind Village is an oasis of calm and tranquility, the perfect base for exploring Chiang Mai and beyond.
A fabulous boutique-type hotel located in the heart of Gay Chiang Mai. With easy access to different areas of interest in the city and one of the most popular gay meeting points at its onsite bar, what’s not to love? Well known gay hotel in Chiang Mai but is open to everyone these days. Simple, cute rooms tastefully decorated with friendly staff who are always ready to help!
Affordable, relaxed and stylish rooms close to the gay bars of Chiang Mai. The staff here go above and beyond – and yet still offer fabulous prices that entire gay travelers stay time and time again. There is also delicious food (some of the best we have in Chiang Mai) and a small swimming pool to cool off by!
An exceptional gay-friendly hostel with fabulous dorms and private rooms. Beautifully designed and impeccably kept, if you are traveling solo or just looking to save some coin, this is the best place to stay since there is no gay hostel in Chiang Mai.
They have a large balcony garden area for chilling and relaxing, multiple spacious living areas and a motorcycle rental shop outside. Even better, it is only a 5-minute walk to Night Bazaar and all the gay nightlife of Chiang Mai!
Gay Nightlife in Chiang Mai
For better or worse, Chiang Mai’s gay nightlife is infamous and often intertwined with the commercial sex scene. If you’re a first-time visitor to Chiang Mai’s gay scene, it can be a little overwhelming, so be sure to take care not to get yourself into anything you can’t handle – and always, always ask for photo ID if you are in any doubt as to someone’s age.
We recommend hanging around in the gay bars in Chiang Mai and striking up a conversation with an ex-pat who is bound to be hanging around to show you the ropes.
Chiang Mai’s Night Market area, in particular, Charoenprathet Alley 6, Charoenprathet Road, and the Kalare shopping plaza, are home to the majority of gay bars and a good place to start. Most of the gay go-go bars are located in the Changphuak / Santitham area.
Gay foreigners flock to Chiang Mai in droves – though you can also find wealthy locals or gay Thai boys trying to find a meal ticket. Things are crazy, wild and insanely fun here once you let loose and get used to the risqué environment. When the gay bars of Chiang Mai cool down for the night, that’s when everyone heads to the all-night dance clubs – some of which actively target the gay market.
Sadly, we can’t possibly list every single gay venue in Chiang Mai, but we have gathered together the most famous gay bars as well as a few of our personal favorites!
Gay Bars in Chiang Mai Night Market Area
Our favorite gay bar in Chiang Mai with funky cocktails, drag shows, go-go dancers and fun special events. Chilled out with air-conditioning and outdoor seating, everyone knows and loves Ram Bar!
Popular with tourists, the staff was friendly, and drinks were moderately priced. Try to visit on Friday or Saturday night to get the best experience, but there is always someone to chat with if you pop in other nights of the week.
You can’t miss the bright rainbow signs of this popular Chiang Mai gay bar tucked discreetly into a far corner of the Night Bazaar. Laid-back with plenty of cute local boys wanting you to buy them a drink – but if that’s not your thing, just chat with the many tourists that drop by.
A more modern gay bar with a bright purple entrance and lots of fairy lights. Nice ambiance and plenty of space, including a happening dance floor later at night. Daily Happy Hour before 7 pm and a fun selection of whiskey, beer, and cocktails – perfect for people watching in their cute outdoor seating space.
Gay Bars in Changphuak / Santitham Area
Adam’s Apple Club in Chiang Mai is where the glitter bombs go off every night, serving up a cocktail of dazzling drag queens and go-go gods that could turn even the most stoic into a superfan.
This isn’t just a bar; it’s a runway where premium drinks are almost as eye-catching as the boys flaunting their moves. The festivities kick into high gear at 9 p.m., but honey, the real tea spills at 10 p.m. when the drag divas take the stage, turning every night into a glittering homage to fabulousness until midnight. It’s the place where labels are out, and love is in, attracting a kaleidoscope of guests—straight, gay, and fabulous in between, from every speck of the globe.
Entry is free, darling, but you gotta be twenty-plus to sashay through these doors. Adam’s Apple Club is the embodiment of the queer spirit: all-embracing, wildly entertaining, and a reminder that, as Lady Gaga would say, “You were born this way, baby.” So, grab your crowns, because this club is about to give you life!
A well-known drag and gay bar in Chiang Mai with two nightly shows. Not at all the worst, we have been to, but seriously: why does every drag bar in Thailand insist on entirely ripping off tourists?
A fabulous, erotic show with steamy boys and fun drag queens, but again, the drinks are going to be insanely over-priced for what’s on offer. Stick with just one small beer and enjoy the show… Unless you are feeling particularly wealthy!
Go-go bars in Chiang Mai are the best-known type of sex venue. Enter, take a set and order a drink. All the boys have numbered briefs to identify them, so just let the Mamasan / Madam know if you’re interested in any, and she can help call one over for you to chat.
If you like don’t like him, it’s customary to pay for his drink and a small 100 Baht tip before sending him back, but if you do – just pay a ‘Bar Fine’ or facilitation fee to the bar (normally between 250 – 400 Baht), and in moments later he will appear dressed and ready to leave with you. Everything else beyond this is discussed beforehand and between you and the boy.
Gay- Popular Bars and Dance Clubs in Chiang Mai
Since there is no gay club in Chiang Mai, the LGBT scene flocks to this Chiang Mai gay institution from the bars. The largest dance venue in town, everyone is welcome, but plenty of queer folks can be found dancing till dawn in this epic space just off the Old Town Square.
Huge hot and sweaty crowds, epic DJs, lasers and an amazing sound system make this the best place to unleash your inner unicorn through dance! Seriously, this place would not be out of place in Las Vegas!
A relaxed spot right on the Ping River for enjoying cocktails at sunset or into the night. Wonderful ambiance, live bands on the weekend and delicious Thai / Japanese food.
Sort of Honolulu meets Bangkok. This bohemian rooftop bar serves tiki realness and is popular with travelers, especially backpackers, who come at low prices. Enjoy cocktails, Thai food and chill vibes.
Popular with ex-pats (gay and straight) enjoy the warm, friendly atmosphere of a genuine old English pub situated near the heart of Chiang Mai city. As well as a traditional bar, The Pub has a sports bar with a pool table, restaurant, café, and garden. This tranquil oasis offers you cool drinks, great beers, good food, coffee and service with a smile.
Not a gay bar but the hottest place for trendy Thai locals to hang out with live bands, electronic music, and a strict dress standard.
Gay Spa and Male Massage in Chiang Mai
Want to recover after a long night out in the gay bars of Chiang Mai? Thailand is famous for its spas and massages, and Chiang Mai has plenty of places you can try them out – at varying quality and prices.
If all you are concerned about is male massages in Chiang Mai, including ‘happy ending service,’ then gay men need only to walk into any of the countless boy or male massage shops in Chiang Mai.
Once you enter, you will be greeted by a ‘madam,’ asked to sit and buy a drink while you select from the Thai boys to complete your ‘gay massage’ – and whether you would prefer an oil, cream or Thai massage.
You then are shown to a small room, given a clean towel and asked to shower. During your (generally below average) massage, the masseur will let you know his services and the cost of a ‘happy ending’ which is usually a tip paid directly to the boy of between 500-1200 Baht.
Afterward, you will pay the original agree price for a massage and drink downstairs to the madam (usually around 500 – 650 Baht per hour) and head on your merry way.
Please don’t get a male massage with a ‘happy ending’ in Chiang Mai confused for a real massage as there is only one thing they do well there (and even that is not guaranteed).
We have included Common Massage, Classic House, and Dream House below as they are the most famous male massages in Chiang Mai, but if you’re looking for a real massage or luxury spa treatment, we have also put our favorite options here too!
Men for men massage house in Chiang Mai offers a spacious and private setting staffed by attentive (and attractive) masseurs. They offer a variety of massage packages with relaxing cream or oil. The all-male staffs delight in maximizing your sensual pleasure and ensuring that you receive exactly what you are after.
A favorite provider of male massages in Chiang Mai with a range of cute, young staff to suit most tastes. One of the best places in Thailand for gay men to go for a thoroughly satisfying massage and delightful experience. Fit out in traditional Thai Lanna style, there are basic, private air-conditioned rooms and an extensive menu of massages and treatment options.
A modern and luxurious spa for men with package details listed on their Facebook page – with plenty of photos of their sexy masseurs. Centrally located just off Tha Pae road.
The Dheva Spa and Wellness Centre
A palatial sanctuary complete with ornate moldings and sculptures depicting sacred animals or symbolic Buddhist motifs. The Dheva Spa and Wellness Centre offers a broad variety of European, Asian and North African relaxation therapies as well as Indian holistic treatments based on Ayurveda, from the Sanskrit meaning ‘science of life.’
There are 11 spacious treatment suites, each with a private bath, steam shower, heated marble scrub table and private relaxation area.
On top of this, there is a selection of aqua therapy areas, including a hydrotherapy room, Vichy shower, heated scrub table, Hammam, Rhassoul and Watsu pool. They are not a gay spa in Chiang Mai, but they are very gay-friendly and our favorite place to spoil ourselves in a luxurious setting!
For something a bit different, support this social enterprise lead by the ex-inmate employment and skill development center. Recently released women from jail receive a massage training course from certified massage instructors – and the reviews are fabulous.
The goal is to reduce the women conviction rates in Chiang Mai and help to solve the societal problems that perpetuate the situation, for a better community.
A leading center for the application of Ayurvedic spa treatments for holistic health and relaxation. Ayurveda is a holistic system of healing that was developed among the wise sages of ancient India around 3,500 years ago. It emphasizes establishing and maintaining a balance of the life energies within us, rather than focusing on individual symptoms.
One of the best massages in Chiang Main offering wellness, good health and luxurious pampering in a spa sanctuary. An urban spa with international treatment rooted in Thai massage and healing traditions.
Our favorite treatment is the five-hour-long ‘Golden Memories’ experience involving a Guava Foot Polisher, Siamese Herbal Steam, body mask, Jacuzzi therapy and a Shirodhara Treatment. Complete bliss.
A world-class spa is offered by the Anantara Resort, a luxury hotel with a breathtaking location on the banks of the Ping River. Guaranteed to be one of the best massage/spa treatments of your life, focussing on aromatherapy, Ayurvedic, and reflexology. Go on a magical journey to reach pampering nirvana with their skilled therapists.
Cruising & Gay Saunas in Chiang Mai
While not as popular or developed as the extensive gay sauna scene in Bangkok – there is two gay saunas in Chiang Mai worth visiting for some steamy fun.
If the gay sauna or gay clubs of Chiang Mai don’t give you want you’re looking for, then, gay hook-up apps are also a popular way of meeting – although, as a foreigner, you will generally be expected to host, so you might want to consider your own private apartment in Chiang Mai.
Another approach we highly recommend is to stay with a gay local in Chiang Mai who can help you navigate the often confusing gay Chiang Mai scene and point you in the right direction!
Prostitution is neither legal nor strictly illegal in Thailand and is, in part, tolerated and regulated. Prostitution is common throughout the country, and rented boys can be found in many gay saunas in Thailand. Given the police attention prostitution and rent boys frequently draw, better to stay away from this entirely and stick with good old fashion ‘free’ sauna fun.
Located on the banks of the Ping River, 1km from the city center, is one of Chiang Mai’s hidden secrets. Part of the popular Club One Seven Sauna gay hotel chain also found in Phuket and Singapore, this is the best gay sauna in Chiang Mai with a penis-shaped outdoor pool, full gym, herbal steam pool and private cabins.
Non-guests can make use of the sauna, bar and riverside café from midday to midnight daily, but many gay tourists simply choose to stay here. As with much of Asia, guys in the gay sauna are very shy, even at naked parties and might seem… prudish. Being forward and friendly is key here!
In the heart of Gay Chiang Mai, this popular gay sauna is the ideal place to meet local guys or foreign visitors. There is actually no sauna here, steam room, gym, large pool and sun terrace area. Upstairs is the cruising / dark space with private cabins for your enjoyment – most busy on Thursday nights and through the weekend.
Originally a paradise, since the original Australian owner passed in 2016, things have declined here, and the House of Male is generally in sad shape – dirty and in need of improvements.
Gay Map Of Chiang Mai
Finding it hard to envisage where everything is Gay Chiang Mai? Hopefully, this queer-centric map helps where we have marked all the bars, clubs, parties, hotels, saunas, massages and more will help you stay in the spot best suited to you!