Live Your Best Lives
The Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center is located in the southern suburbs of Chiang Mai and mainly includes a Chiang Mai Textile History Museum and a restaurant.
The Chiang Mai Textile History Museum showcases the development of Chiang Mai's textile industry and the evolution of clothing styles since the Lanna Kingdom.
The exhibition hall displays fabrics and clothing from various eras, especially the gorgeous costumes and wedding dresses of the royal family and aristocracy, which are magnificent.
The restaurant holds a "Khantok" banquet starting at 7pm every night. Guests sit on the floor around small round tables, tasting delicacies once offered to the royal family and enjoying northern Thai folk songs and dances.
Tropical monsoon climate, suitable for all seasons
1-2 hours
100 baht
All day
Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center was established to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of Northern Thailand. It showcases traditional customs, cuisine, and dances from the Lanna Kingdom, the historical heart of Northern Thailand.
The center is located on the Chiang Mai-Lampang Road, a short drive from the Old City. Taxis and tuk-tuks are the most convenient transport options. Walking is possible if you're staying nearby, though the center is on a main road.
The center opens daily from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with the Khantoke dinner and performances starting at around 6:00 PM. It is best to visit in the evening for the full experience of the dinner and show.
Tickets for the Khantoke dinner and show range from 500 to 1,200 THB, depending on seating choice. Tickets can be purchased at the venue or online through local tour operators.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during the high tourist season. You can book a day or two in advance to secure a seat for the show and dinner.
The dinner and cultural show usually last around 2 hours, so plan for at least 2-3 hours for the full experience. Arriving early will give you time to explore the cultural displays before the performance starts.
Guided tours are not typically available, but the show provides English translations and explanations, so non-Thai speakers can easily follow the performances.
The best photography opportunities are from the dining area and near the stage, where you can capture the performers in their colorful traditional costumes. Be mindful of others during the show when taking photos.
Start by exploring the cultural exhibits and displays before heading to your seat for the Khantoke dinner. After the meal, enjoy the performance from your seat, and take photos with performers if you wish.
The center is best visited in the evening when the Khantoke dinner and cultural performances take place. There are no additional light shows, but the performances are visually stunning and well-lit.
The center can get crowded during peak seasons, particularly in the evening. Weekdays and non-holiday periods are less crowded, especially if you visit during the first dinner seating.
The center offers clean restrooms, a small shop with cultural souvenirs, and seating areas. Food and drink are served as part of the Khantoke dinner.
The center is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors. There are no major obstacles, and seating is provided for all guests. Children will find the performances particularly engaging.
Cash is widely accepted at the venue, but many places also accept credit cards. It’s advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases, especially in the souvenir shop.
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options are available at some of the local restaurants nearby. The Khantoke dinner usually offers a variety of vegetarian dishes as well.
There are souvenir shops inside the center selling traditional Thai crafts, textiles, jewelry, and locally made goods such as wooden carvings and ceramics.
