Boutique colonial-style hotel set in lush tropical gardens, offering just 30 suites in meticulously restored teak buildings. The property combines old-world charm with modern amenities including a stunning pool and exceptional restaurant.
137 Pillars House is a 30-suite boutique hotel set in an enclave of landscaped tropical gardens along Nawatgate Road in the Watgate neighbourhood of Chiang Mai, on the eastern bank of the Ping River. The property traces its heritage to the 19th-century teak trading era: the original 137-pillar teak house belonging to Louis T. Leonowens — son of Anna Leonowens of The King and I fame — has been painstakingly restored and now functions as the centrepiece bar and lounge complex of the hotel. Surrounding it are a series of contemporary suites housed in modern teak-clad buildings that echo the colonial architectural language. Each of the 30 suites is expansive by Chiang Mai standards, featuring private balconies, deep soaking tubs, and a dedicated butler assigned to each guest for the duration of the stay. The infinity pool runs along the garden's southern edge and is one of the most atmospheric swimming pools in Northern Thailand. The Jack Bain's Bar, adjacent to the restored Leonowens residence, is one of Chiang Mai's most celebrated cocktail settings, drawing non-resident guests for sundowner sessions. The Palette restaurant specialises in modern Thai cuisine using ingredients sourced from the Chiang Mai valley and surrounding highland farms, with a tasting menu available each evening. The hotel's spa offers a range of traditional Northern Thai treatments including lanna herbal compresses and sacred flower baths. Bicycles are available for guests to explore the surrounding Nimmanhaemin neighbourhood and Old City temple circuit, approximately 15 minutes by bicycle from the hotel.
Amenities
- infinity pool
- spa
- fine dining
- butler service
- cooking classes
- bicycles
Location
2 Soi 1, Nawatgate Road, Tambon Watgate, Chiang Mai 50000
18.7886, 99.0005 View on map
Highlights
- 19th-century teak trading house of the Leonowens family restored as a bar and lounge at the heart of the property
- Thirty spacious suites with private butler service set in a landscaped tropical garden on the Ping River
- Infinity pool and Jack Bain's Bar creating one of Chiang Mai's most refined outdoor social environments
- Palette restaurant serving modern Thai cuisine sourced from the Chiang Mai valley and highland farms
- Complimentary bicycles for exploring Nimmanhaemin Road and the Old City temple circuit
Tips for visiting
- Jack Bain's Bar is a destination in its own right — non-guests book for sundowner cocktails, so arrive by 5:30pm for a poolside seat
- The hotel's bicycle fleet provides a relaxed way to explore Nimmanhaemin Road and the Saturday Night Market
- Request a suite in the main garden building rather than the newer annexe for the most atmospheric views of the original teak house
- The Palette restaurant's tasting menu should be reserved at check-in rather than on the day to guarantee a sitting
- The Ping River walking path starts near the hotel's eastern gate and is best explored in the early morning
Accessibility
The hotel's garden pathways are largely flat and well-maintained, with some gravel sections between buildings. The main pool and bar area are wheelchair-accessible via paved paths. Most suites have a small entrance step; guests with mobility requirements should request a ground-level suite and confirm accessibility details directly with the hotel before booking.
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Frequently asked questions
How far is 137 Pillars House from Chiang Mai's Old City?
The Old City moat is approximately 2 kilometres west of the hotel. By bicycle (available from the hotel), the journey takes around 15 minutes; by tuk-tuk, around 5-10 minutes.
Does the hotel offer cooking classes?
The hotel organises Thai cooking classes through a partner culinary school. Classes can be arranged through the concierge and typically include a morning market visit for ingredient selection.
What is the check-in and check-out time?
Standard check-in is at 2pm and check-out is at noon. The hotel often accommodates early arrivals or late departures subject to room availability.
Is the hotel suitable for families?
The peaceful garden setting and generous suite sizes make the property suitable for families. The hotel can arrange connecting suites and provides welcome amenities for children.
Is there an airport transfer service?
Private transfers from Chiang Mai International Airport, approximately 7 kilometres from the hotel, can be arranged through the concierge at time of booking.