Where to Stay in Chiang Dao, Thailand: Best Hotels & Homestays

Chiang Dao, Thailand, is one of those hidden gems that travelers often overlook in favor of more famous spots like Pai or Chiang Mai. But after spending five days here, I can confidently say that Chiang Dao is now one of my favorite places in Northern Thailand.

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape into nature, this is the place to be. Surrounded by lush jungles, misty mountains, and endless rice fields, Chiang Dao offers a range of accommodations—from jungle homestays to boutique resorts. Whether you want to wake up in the remote mountains, stay in the countryside with stunning views, or be closer to town for easy access to attractions, there’s a perfect spot for everyone.

In this guide, I’ll break down the best areas to stay in Chiang Dao, highlight the top hotels, guesthouses, homestays, and resorts, and share insider tips based on my own experience.

Find a great homestay or resort in Chiang Dao on Trip.com!

Best Areas to Stay in Chiang Dao

Chiang Dao is a small town, but where you stay can shape your experience. Here’s a breakdown of the main areas and what to expect in each:

1. Staying in the Mountains – A Jungle Retreat

Best for: Seclusion, nature lovers, boutique eco-stays, unique homestays

If you want to truly disconnect and be surrounded by dense jungle, waterfalls, and mountain views, staying in the mountains is an unforgettable experience. You’ll find eco-friendly accommodations, jungle homestays, and high-end boutique hotels hidden among the trees.

Pros:

• Ultimate privacy and relaxation
• Incredible views of Doi Chiang Dao Mountain
• Cooler temperatures, perfect for hiking and exploring nature

Cons:

• Harder to access—expect winding roads and limited transport options
• Less dining and activity options nearby (you’ll mostly eat at your accommodation)

Best Hotels & Homestays for Where to Stay in the Mountains:

• MayamYay Homestay – My personal favorite. This jungle homestay sits along a peaceful creek, offering stunning jungle views, delicious home-cooked meals, a fire pit for cool nights, and even a movie projector inside your cozy room. Once we arrived, we didn’t want to leave. Learn all about MayamYay Homestay in this post from my Nomad Stays series!
• Hi Land Forest View – A peaceful mountain escape with panoramic jungle views, a cozy atmosphere, and an emphasis on eco-friendly living.

---

2. Staying in the Countryside – The Best of Both Worlds

Best for: Relaxation, scenic views, access to both town and nature

If you want a quiet escape while still being close to Chiang Dao’s attractions, the countryside is the perfect spot. You’ll find boutique resorts, eco-lodges, and bungalows overlooking rice fields and mountains.

Pros:

• Stunning landscapes—rice fields, rivers, and mountain peaks in the background
• Quieter than town but still only 10-15 minutes away from attractions
• More boutique-style stays with unique experiences

Cons:

• You’ll need a motorbike or car to get around
• Not as many budget options as in town

Best Hotels & Homestays for Where to Stay in the Countryside:

• Dara Dao Resort – A beautiful boutique resort with bungalows on stilts above rice fields, an infinity pool, and bikes for exploring the countryside. The on-site restaurant serves delicious food, and the service is top-notch. Learn all about Dara Dao in this post from my Nomad Stays series!
• Paradise in Chiang Dao – A nature retreat offering modern bungalows surrounded by tropical gardens, with stunning views.
• Yatika Boutique Chiang Dao – A stylish, intimate boutique stay with beautifully designed rooms and personalized service, located in a serene countryside setting.

---

3. Staying in Chiang Dao Town – Convenience & Local Life

Best for: Budget travelers, easy access to attractions, a local experience

If you prefer to be close to Chiang Dao Cave, markets, and restaurants, staying in town is the most convenient option. There are more budget-friendly guesthouses and small hotels here, but it’s also a busier area.

Pros:

• Close to Chiang Dao Cave, temples, markets, and restaurants
• Easy access to transport and motorbike rentals
• Best area for budget-friendly stays

Cons:

• Less scenic compared to the mountains or countryside
• Fewer high-end accommodations

Where to Stay in Chiang Dao Town:

• Chiang Dao Hostel – A great budget-friendly stay with clean dorms and private rooms. Perfect for backpackers.

Choosing the Right Place to Stay in Chiang Dao

With so many unique options, where should you stay? It depends on your travel style:

• If you want to fully immerse yourself in nature, stay in the mountains. Homestays like MayamYay Homestay or Hi Land Forest View offer an unforgettable jungle escape, but getting around may require a bit of effort.
• If you want to be surrounded by nature but still close to attractions, the countryside is perfect. Dara Dao Resort, Paradise in Chiang Dao, and Yatika Boutique Chiang Dao offer beautiful landscapes while still being within a short drive to town.
• If you’re traveling on a budget or want easy access to restaurants and markets, stay in town. Chiang Dao Hostel is a looking great affordable option.

Still unsure? Consider splitting your stay—spend a few nights in the jungle for an off-the-grid experience, then move to the countryside or town for easier access to sights.

Final Thoughts on Chiang Dao Accommodations

No matter where you stay, Chiang Dao offers an incredible escape into nature, relaxation, and slow travel. Whether you choose a jungle retreat, a countryside escape, or a budget stay in town, you’ll find something that suits your travel style.

For me, MayamYay Homestay and Dara Dao Resort were two of the most memorable stays I’ve had in Northern Thailand. One offered total seclusion in the jungle, while the other provided breathtaking views of rice fields and mountains.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, nature-filled getaway, Chiang Dao should be on your list. Have you been to Chiang Dao? Let me know where you stayed in the comments!

F.A.Q.’s about Where to Stay in Chiang Dao

Pin this Post for Later!