Raya Heritage 

Where time slows down

This serene five-star all-suite hideaway within easy reach of Chiang Mai has an idyllic riverside setting and a quietly luxurious appeal.

The sense of timeless harmony will enfold you the second you step inside Raya Heritage. This elegant retreat on the banks of the Ping River is just a short drive from Chiang Mai’s Old Town but a world away in atmosphere. Taking its cues from ancient Lanna traditions, the deceptively simple, harmonious design marries an all-but-monochrome palette of white, cream, grey, black and indigo with salvaged architectural elements and bespoke furnishings created by local craftspeople. There’s the same sense of place in the kitchen, where seasonal and often organic ingredients from nearby farms are turned into delectable dishes featuring the multicultural flavours of the north. As for the spa, its restorative nature-focused treatments are based on long-established Lanna techniques, with their fusion of influences from neighbouring Myanmar, Laos and China. Add to that the serene setting, with gardens and terraces leading down to the water, and it’s hard to imagine a more soothing place to retreat to after action-packed forays to Chiang Mai’s temples, museums and night markets.

Why we love Raya Heritage

  • You can be sipping mocktails in a riverside garden one minute and bartering for crafts in a bustling market less than half an hour later

  • The sophisticated flavours of Lanna cuisine are showcased to perfection, sometimes with a modern twist, on the various menus

  • There’s something beautiful to see at every turn, from the rippling water feature in the soaring lobby to the craft pieces everywhere

  • Even if you’re not a spa fan, a half-hour session in its Thai steam bath scented with a blend from a local master herbalist will convert you

5 stars
Oct - Apr
Bangkok 11½ hours
On the banks of the Ping River, around 20 minutes by car or complimentary shuttle from Chiang Mai’s Old Town
Approx. 30 minutes’ transfer from Chiang Mai airport
Boutique

Facilities

  • Restaurants & bars
  • Board
  • Spas & wellness
  • Activities
  • Diving & Watersports
  • Sustainability

There is an all-day restaurant, tea lounge and bar, as well as in-suite and poolside dining by arrangement, all showcasing local recipes as well as international staples made with local seasonal ingredients.

Khu Khao
The main restaurant is a relaxed rustic venue for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with an all-day dining menu and a selection of regional Thai dishes with farm-to-table freshness.

Laan Cha Tea Terrace
This shady riverside veranda is a soothing spot for a fresh juice, herbal infusion or cup of coffee, or opt for a set afternoon tea featuring Lanna and European flavours.

Baan Ta Lounge & Lawn
With a moody interior and a riverside garden, the hotel’s bar has an inventive menu that features signature sangrias, butterfly pea juice mocktails and suitably delicious local bar snacks.

The farm-fresh à la carte breakfast dishes at Khu Khao are the perfect start to the day, whether you go for eggs Florentine, an acai bowl or the exotic flavours of a Lanna platter.

Whats Included

Breakfast at Khu Khao

Upgrade Options

Half Board • Breakfast and dinner at Khu Khao
Full Board • Breakfast, lunch and dinner at Khu Khao

Decorated in shades of soft white with weathered wooden accents, the tranquil Ai Waan Spa offers a selection of healing treatments rooted in the local culture. Soothe aching muscles in the steam therapy room or enjoy a signature bamboo massage, which uses heated sections of these giant grasses to impressive effect. There is a small, elegant fitness room with cardio equipment and free weights, with Asana yoga classes every weekend.

Visit artisans in their studios, tour the organic coffee plantation at Pong Krai or explore the temples and local markets by rickshaw. For the active, the hotel arranges guided jungle walks, sunrise bicycle rides, rock climbing and rafting.

The 20-metre-long swimming pool has views of the river below and plenty of shaded loungers for serene naps.

Raya Heritage’s philosophy of being in harmony with your surroundings is reflected throughout. The menus are based on seasonal, local and organic (where possible) produce. Many of the decorative elements were created by local artisans working with natural materials. As part of the Premier Group, it also supports a range of charities to help disadvantaged children throughout Thailand.