Santitham, Chiang Mai - a street sign with a couple of people riding motorcycles
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Santitham Chiang Mai

4.6
·491k reviews·, Thailand

A vibrant local neighborhood north of Chiang Mai's Old City, known for its bustling markets, delicious street food, and authentic Thai atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Experience local life

CrowdLow
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Santitham, Chiang Mai - a street sign with a couple of people riding motorcycles

Santitham Chiang Mai

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Experience local life

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant local neighborhood north of Chiang Mai's Old City, known for its bustling markets, delicious street food, and authentic Thai atmosphere.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Santitham offers a genuine taste of Chiang Mai life with incredible street food and a local feel."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Embrace Local Markets

Thanin Market is a must-visit for authentic local experiences and delicious street food. :shopping_bags:

🏊‍♀️ Cool off at Santitham Plaza

Enjoy a swim at the affordable public pool for a local way to beat the heat. :swimming_pool:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Thanin Market

Thanin Market

Santitham

A bustling local market offering everything from fresh produce and street food to clothing and household goods. A true taste of Chiang Mai life.

Santitham Plaza Pool

Santitham Plaza Pool

Santitham

A public swimming pool offering a refreshing escape from the heat, surrounded by apartments with a local feel.

Local Eateries

Local Eateries

Santitham

Discover authentic Thai flavors at numerous street food stalls and local restaurants, offering delicious and budget-friendly meals.

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Santitham is a vibrant, local neighborhood with a more authentic feel than the tourist-heavy Old City. Expect bustling markets, delicious street food, and a genuine Chiang Mai experience. It's a great base for exploring, but be prepared for a more residential atmosphere.

Navigating Santitham

While Santitham is walkable, consider renting a scooter or using Grab (ride-sharing app) for longer distances. Many travelers find it a convenient and affordable area to stay, offering a good balance of local life and tourist amenities.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Experience local life
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Street food galore
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

@mommamignon shows us what it’s like to visit one of the prettiest festivals in the world 📍 This is the Yi Peng Lantern festival in Chiang Mai Thailand 🇹🇭 People from all over the world gather for this festival to release lanterns to signify a fresh start! 🕯️ Is Thailand’s Yi Peng Lantern Festival on your bucket list?? #thailandtravel #lanternfestival #yipeng #chiangmaithailand #thailandtrip #Pla...
@destinationinspiration
168.6K likes • 1.3M views

🎯 Embrace Local Markets

Thanin Market is a must-visit for authentic local experiences and delicious street food. :shopping_bags: Reddit

🏊‍♀️ Cool off at Santitham Plaza

Enjoy a swim at the affordable public pool for a local way to beat the heat. :swimming_pool: Reddit

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@annydayannytime
35.5K likes • 582.6K views
Plan your trip to Thailand like a pro with these Know Before You Go travel tips & my 20+ page travel guide covering Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai. 🇹🇭 thailand travel tips Thailand resorts how to plan a trip to thailand best thailand itinerary hidden gems in thailand #bangkokexplores #traveltiktok #thailandexplores #thailand #thailandtrip #phuket #chiangmai
@imaubreyjackson
26.7K likes • 439.9K views

🛵 Scooter for Freedom

Rent a scooter to easily explore Santitham and surrounding areas. :scooter: Reddit

📱 Grab for Convenience

Use the Grab app for easy and affordable transportation around Chiang Mai. :iphone: Reddit

These were our 10 favorite activities in Chiang Mai! 🪔🕯️🏮 Are you visiting the north of Thailand and don’t know what to do? We stayed for 2 weeks in Chiang Mai and these were our favorite things to do. 1. Dantewada A dreamy escape to unwind at Dantewada’s park 🌿 2. Sticky Waterfalls Climb and play at the unique Sticky Waterfalls. 3. Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir Relax by the serene waters of Huay Tue...
@halaltravelasia
24.1K likes • 661.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Embrace Local Markets

Thanin Market is a must-visit for authentic local experiences and delicious street food. :shopping_bags: Reddit

🏊‍♀️ Cool off at Santitham Plaza

Enjoy a swim at the affordable public pool for a local way to beat the heat. :swimming_pool: Reddit

🛵 Scooter for Freedom

Rent a scooter to easily explore Santitham and surrounding areas. :scooter: Reddit

📱 Grab for Convenience

Use the Grab app for easy and affordable transportation around Chiang Mai. :iphone: Reddit

🏠 Consider Santitham for Stay

A local-feel area with great street food, ideal for longer stays. :house: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Santitham is praised for its authentic local atmosphere and abundant, affordable street food, making it a favorite for those seeking a genuine Chiang Mai experience. While accommodation can be limited in larger sizes, its vibrant markets and community feel make it a highly recommended area for longer stays and budget-conscious travelers.

What People Like

Authentic local vibe
Abundant street food
Affordable living

What People Dislike

Limited large apartments

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Santitham is easily accessible by taxi or Grab from Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX). If you're coming from the Old City, it's a short ride. Many travelers opt to rent a scooter for convenient exploration within the area and beyond. Reddit

Yes, Santitham is a walkable neighborhood, especially if you're staying within the main areas. However, for exploring further afield or reaching attractions outside the immediate vicinity, transportation like scooters or Grab is recommended. Reddit

For getting around Santitham and Chiang Mai, renting a scooter offers the most freedom. Alternatively, the Grab app provides convenient and affordable ride-hailing services. Public transport options are limited within Santitham itself. Reddit

Santitham is located just north of Chiang Mai's Old City, making it a convenient base for exploring both areas. It offers a more local feel while still being close to the main tourist attractions. Reddit

While there isn't extensive public transport within Santitham, songthaews (red shared taxis) can be hailed for travel to other parts of Chiang Mai. However, Grab and scooters are generally more convenient for navigating the area. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Santitham itself is a neighborhood, not a ticketed attraction. You don't need tickets to wander its streets or visit local markets. However, specific attractions within or near Santitham, like Dantewada or elephant sanctuaries, may have entrance fees. TikTok

No, Thanin Market is a public market and does not have an entrance fee. You can freely explore its stalls and enjoy the local atmosphere. Reddit

Thanin Market is typically open daily from early morning until late evening, though specific stall hours may vary. It's a great place to visit any time of day for a taste of local life. Reddit

Yes, the Santitham Plaza Pool has a small entrance fee, often around 50 THB, making it a very affordable option for a swim. Reddit

Yes, Dantewada is located about an hour outside of Chiang Mai and can be visited from Santitham. It's recommended to arrange transportation, such as a taxi or scooter, for this trip. TikTok

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

Santitham is known for its authentic local atmosphere, bustling Thanin Market, and a wide array of street food options. It's a great place to experience daily life in Chiang Mai away from the main tourist crowds. Reddit

Explore Thanin Market for local goods and food, enjoy a swim at Santitham Plaza Pool, and sample the diverse street food offerings. It's also a good base for day trips to nearby attractions. TikTokReddit

Many digital nomads find Santitham appealing due to its local feel, affordable living costs, and proximity to amenities. While it might lack the extensive co-working spaces of other areas, its authentic vibe is a major draw. Reddit+1

Santitham offers a range of accommodation, from guesthouses and budget-friendly apartments to modern condos like DVieng Santitham. However, larger two-bedroom units can be scarce. Reddit+1

Santitham has a vibrant, local atmosphere. It's a busy residential area with markets, shops, and eateries catering to locals, offering a more authentic Chiang Mai experience compared to heavily touristed areas. Reddit

🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining

Santitham is a street food paradise! Look for Khao Soi, sai oua (Northern Thai sausage), mango sticky rice, and various noodle dishes. Thanin Market is a prime spot for sampling a wide variety. TikTokReddit

Yes, Santitham boasts numerous local restaurants serving authentic Thai cuisine. You'll find everything from casual eateries to more established spots, often at very reasonable prices. TikTok

Khao Soi is a famous Northern Thai curry noodle soup. Many local restaurants and street food stalls in Santitham serve delicious versions of this dish. TikTok

While Santitham is more known for its local eateries and street food, you can find cafes scattered throughout the neighborhood, offering coffee and light snacks. TikTok

Eating in Santitham is generally very affordable. Street food and local restaurants offer delicious meals at budget-friendly prices, making it ideal for travelers looking to save on food costs. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 Photography

Thanin Market offers vibrant scenes of local life, colorful produce, and bustling activity. The residential streets themselves can also provide charming glimpses into everyday Chiang Mai. Reddit

While not strictly in Santitham, nearby Chiang Mai has unique cafes like Carp Cafe, which offers a surreal dining experience surrounded by koi fish, perfect for memorable photos. TikTok

Early mornings are great for capturing the market in action with softer light. Evenings are also good for street photography as food stalls come alive. Reddit

It's always respectful to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially vendors. A smile and a polite gesture usually go a long way. TikTok

Santitham is excellent for street photography, capturing local life, food photography, and architectural details of local buildings. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Santitham offers a more relaxed and local environment that can be great for families. While it's not packed with kid-specific attractions, the vibrant Thanin Market can be an exciting place for children to experience new sights and smells. The Santitham Plaza Pool provides a fun way to cool down on hot days. Reddit

For day trips, consider visiting Dantewada, a 'land of angels' with waterfalls and gardens where kids can interact with animals like rabbits and goats. Ethical elephant sanctuaries are also a popular family activity, offering educational and heartwarming experiences. TikTok+1

💰 Budget Travelers

Santitham is a fantastic choice for budget travelers. Accommodation options range from affordable guesthouses to reasonably priced apartments. The real savings come with food – street food and local eateries offer incredibly delicious meals for just a few dollars. TikTokReddit

Transportation is also budget-friendly, especially if you rent a scooter. Even using Grab for shorter trips is quite economical. The Santitham Plaza Pool is a very cheap way to cool off compared to resort pools. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers & Digital Nomads

Santitham is a popular hub for solo travelers and digital nomads seeking an authentic Chiang Mai experience. The neighborhood offers a good balance of local life and amenities, with plenty of affordable food and accommodation options. Reddit+1

While it might not have the same density of co-working spaces as other areas, its relaxed vibe and proximity to local life make it an attractive base. Renting a scooter or using Grab makes it easy to get around and explore the city's many attractions. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Thanin Market

Thanin Market, known locally as the Santitham Market, is the heart of the neighborhood and a must-visit for an authentic Chiang Mai experience. It's a sprawling local market where you can find everything from fresh produce, meats, and seafood to clothing, household goods, and an incredible array of street food. Travelers rave about the vibrant atmosphere and the opportunity to immerse themselves in daily Thai life. Reddit

When visiting, be prepared for a sensory overload in the best way possible. The sights, sounds, and smells are intoxicating. It's the perfect place to try local delicacies like sai oua (Northern Thai sausage), khao soi (curry noodle soup), and an endless variety of fresh fruits and snacks. Bargaining is common for non-food items, so don't be afraid to negotiate respectfully. Reddit

For photographers, Thanin Market offers endless opportunities to capture candid moments of local vendors, colorful displays, and the general hustle and bustle. Remember to be respectful and ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals. TikTok

Accommodation in Santitham

Santitham is a popular choice for those seeking a more local living experience in Chiang Mai, often favored by digital nomads and long-term visitors. The area offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses and apartments to more modern condos. Reddit+1

While it's a great area, finding larger apartments can be a challenge. Many listings are for studio or single-room apartments, with two-bedroom units being particularly scarce. Condos like DVieng Santitham are available and offer amenities such as pools and gyms, though some find them a bit pricey for the neighborhood. Reddit+1

If you're looking for a central location with a local feel and good access to amenities, Santitham is an excellent option. It provides a comfortable base for exploring the city while offering a glimpse into everyday Chiang Mai life. Reddit

Santitham's Culinary Scene

Santitham is a food lover's dream, particularly for those who appreciate authentic and affordable Thai cuisine. The neighborhood is brimming with street food stalls and local eateries that serve up delicious dishes at incredibly reasonable prices. Reddit

The star of the show is often Khao Soi, a rich and flavorful curry noodle soup that is a Northern Thai specialty. You'll also find plenty of opportunities to try other local favorites like sai oua (spicy Northern Thai sausage), grilled meats, fresh spring rolls, and an abundance of tropical fruits. Don't miss out on the chance to try mango sticky rice for dessert! TikTok

Beyond street food, Santitham has numerous small restaurants that offer a more sit-down dining experience. These establishments provide a chance to savor traditional Thai dishes in a relaxed setting. For those seeking unique culinary experiences, nearby attractions like Carp Cafe offer a whimsical dining adventure. TikTok

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