Heading to Chiang Rai soon? Looking for the best hostels in Chiang Rai? Finding the right hostel can be challenging.
When it comes to backpacking, we all have different standards. This post should help you find the perfect Chiang Rai hostel for your needs.
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What to look for when booking your hostel to Chiang Rai, Thailand
Staying in hostels in Thailand is a brilliant way to meet new people. The atmosphere is important and it can make a huge difference when you travel.
Apart from the atmosphere, the location is also important. If you arenât feeling comfortable with the idea of driving in Thailand, you should be careful when you pick your hostel.
You might want to stay somewhere closer to restaurants or attractions.
If your hostel provides free breakfast, excellent wifi and perhaps free coffee â youâre in business!
Iâd also recommend that you read reviews before making a booking. Overall, backpacking in Thailand is drama-free, but if you want your stay to be memorable, you should make sure the reviews are great.
Top & Best Backpacker Hostels in Chiang Rai, Thailand
In this post, youâll find information about these Chiang Rai hostels. Here are their current ratings on Booking.com.
| Hostel | Ideal for | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Baan PâMaali Hostel | Solo travelers | 9.3 |
| Backpack Hostel | Families and solo travelers | 9.9 |
| Tongsiam | Solo travelers | 9.4 |
| Baan Mai Kradan Hostel | Solo travelers | 9.0 |
| Norn Nung Len | Backpackers | 9.1 |
| Connect Hostel | Solo travelers (including female travelers) | 9.1 |
| Spinomad Hostel | Couples and families | 9.4 |
| Mercy Hostel | Couples, backpackers and female travelers | 9.3 |
| Busket Hostel | Solo travelers | 9.5 |
| Stay In Chiangrai | Families and solo travelers | 9.7 |
Baan PâMaali Hostel
Consider staying at Baan PâMaali Hostel in Chiang Rai if you are looking for a clean, relaxed hostel that has many interesting sites nearby.
Within a short walk, you can reach the well-known Clock Tower, Terminal 1 bus station, the Night Bazaar, and even the best pad thai in the city.
The owner of Baan PâMaali genuinely cares about his customerâs experiences and is always there to talk to, answer questions, and make you laugh.
The hostel has been recently renovated and features comfortable bunk beds with curtains for some privacy.
Backpack Hostel
Backpack Hostel is a newly renovated hostel that has clean facilities, helpful staff, and a chill vibe. There are a few places around the hostel to socialize with the other guests, including a loft-style lounge and a rooftop terrace
Each of the dorms also has a little patio space to get some fresh air, which is convenient if you want to have some late-night chats with your new friends.
It is also super easy to get to as the main bus station in Chiang Rai is only a two-minute walk away.
Tongsiam
Tongsiam has a very cool, vintage aesthetic with its mid-century modern decorations. They are located next to the Chiang Rai Clock Tower and on the same street as the weekly Saturday night market.
They have roomy dorm rooms and private rooms available as well as a rooftop terrace and cafe shop on site.
They also offer an affordable laundry service. If you like to explore the city by bicycle, stay at Tongsiam and join one of their bike tours.
Baan Mai Kradan Hostel Chiang Rai
Located about a 10-minute walk away from the main bus terminal and Night Bazaar, Baan Mai Kradan Hostel is an excellent choice for your stay in Chiang Rai.
The hostel features spacious and clean facilities, friendly hosts, and a delicious breakfast.
There are many, many areas around the hostel to relax, read a book, or work at with WiFi available throughout the whole hostel. The main lobby also allows in a lot of natural light which creates a nice ambiance for working.
Norn Nung Len Cafeâ&Hostel
Norn Nung Len is the best hostel to stay in Chiang Rai if you are a solo traveler looking for a social hostel with a relaxed atmosphere. Stay here on the weekend to enjoy some live local music and drinks from the bar.
Besides the late nights on the weekend, the hostel is quite quiet during the week.
It is also located right across the street from Chiang Raiâs famous Night Bazaar; a place you must go to pick up some unique souvenirs and even see a traditional Lanna dance performance.
Connect Hostel
If you are a digital nomad, Connect Hostel was made for you! To start, they provide comfortable beds regardless if you are choosing to stay in their dorm rooms or their spacious private room.
Then, they have a large lounge and terrace area equipped with strong Wifi, desks with comfy seating, and outlets.
Connect hostel is located within a short walk to Terminal 1 bus station and also on the same street that you can catch the airport bus if you need it.
Spinomad Hostel
For those keen on having a hotel experience at hostel prices, then Spinomad Hostel is for you.
The hostel has been flawlessly decorated so that even if you are staying in one of their dorm rooms, you will still get a semi-private, luxurious hostel experience.
Aside from how beautiful this hostel is, the staff are incredible and offer you the kindness of Northern Thailand. It is also not too far from the bus station, only costing you a 5-minute walk.
Mercy Hostel
Mercy Hostel is an ideal place to stay, especially if you are planning to stay in Chiang Rai for more than a few days.
Located just a 10 minute walk away from the main bus station, you know you will be able to get a good nightâs sleep in the quieter location.
The facilities at Mercy Hostel are features of your stay here. Spend your afternoons lounging by the pool and taking a dip whenever you feel too warm. In the evening, get to know your fellow travelers over a billiard game or two.
Busket Hostel
Do you have the myth stuck in your head still that hostels are scary? Busket Hostel is sure to change your mind!
This hostel is located right next to the bus station and Night Bazaar, which makes it a great choice for those looking to visit Chiang Rai for a short stay.
Whether you choose to stay in one of their dorm rooms or a private room, the hostel features comfortable beds and a lot of space to mingle with fellow travelers.
One of the best things about Busket Hostel is the rooftop terrace that boasts a stunning view of the city.
Stay In Chiangrai
If hospitality is the most important thing to you when choosing a hostel, then steer towards Stay In Chiangrai.
Not only is this hostel impeccably clean and comfortable; but guests rave about the warm and knowledgeable staff that are willing to help you solve any problems you may have.
If we would have to critique anything, the Stay In Chiangrai is a bit further from the bus station but only by a 15-minute walk.
With that being said, if you love a quieter and relaxed hostel experience, then Stay in Chiangrai is for you!
