Award-winning hostel known for its pool, bar, and lively social atmosphere. Regular events, movie nights, and tours organized. Great for meeting fellow travelers in relaxed setting near Old City.
Deejai Backpackers is a well-established hostel near the Night Bazaar on Chaiyapoom Road in the Chang Khlan district of Chiang Mai, on the east side of the Ping River close to the main tuk-tuk routes between the Old City and the riverside markets. The name translates loosely as 'good-hearted' in Thai, and the property's reputation for staff warmth and community atmosphere has made it a consistent backpacker recommendation for Northern Thailand. The hostel's main draw is its open-air pool, a rarity among budget properties in Chiang Mai, which functions as an afternoon social hub alongside the adjacent bar. Regular events including movie nights, pool parties, and communal barbecue evenings are organised by the staff throughout the week. Accommodation ranges from six-bed mixed dorms to private rooms, all with air-conditioning and ensuite or shared bathroom options. Individual reading lights and power points have been added to bunk positions in recent renovations. The bar stocks a wide selection of Thai beers and spirits at competitive prices and serves simple meals throughout the day. A tour desk books ethical elephant sanctuary visits, zip-lining at Flight of the Gibbon, and Thai cooking classes. The Night Bazaar market complex, excellent for evening street food and souvenir shopping, is five minutes on foot. Songthaew red trucks to the Old City run from the nearby intersection on Chaiyapoom Road.
Amenities
- pool
- bar
- free WiFi
- tours
- lockers
- common area
Location
7/1 Chaiyapoom Road, Chang Khlan, Mueang Chiang Mai 50100
18.7847, 99.0014 View on map
Highlights
- Outdoor pool and poolside bar — a rare feature among Chiang Mai's budget hostels — as the afternoon social hub
- Regular events including movie nights, pool parties, and communal barbecue evenings
- Five-minute walk from the Night Bazaar for evening food and shopping
- Tour desk booking ethical elephant sanctuary visits and Northern Thailand day trips
- Mixed dorms and private rooms all with air-conditioning in the Chang Khlan district
Tips for visiting
- The pool gets busiest between 2pm and 5pm; arrive earlier or later to swim laps without interruption
- Book elephant sanctuary visits at least 2 days in advance; popular ethical operators fill quickly during peak season
- The Night Bazaar's food court section toward the river end offers the best value for evening meals
- Songthaew shared trucks to the Old City run from the Chaiyapoom Road junction; flag them down and pay around 30 THB per person
- Flight of the Gibbon zip-line tour, bookable through the desk, is most enjoyable in dry season (November-April)
Accessibility
The hostel is a low-rise property with level access between the main common areas, pool, and bar. Dorm rooms with lower bunk beds are available on request. Guests with significant mobility limitations should note that shared bathrooms are compact facilities not designed for wheelchair users.
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Frequently asked questions
Does Deejai have a curfew?
There is no curfew. The front desk and bar operate late, and guests have 24-hour access to the property.
Are towels provided?
Towels are included with private room bookings. Dorm guests can rent towels at reception for a small fee, or bring their own.
How far is the hostel from the Old City?
The Old City moat's eastern wall is approximately 2 kilometres away, accessible by songthaew for about 30 THB per person or by tuk-tuk for around 80-100 THB.
Is the pool heated?
The pool is unheated. Water temperatures are comfortable year-round given Chiang Mai's tropical climate, though December and January nights can make evening swimming cooler.
Can non-guests use the pool?
The pool is primarily reserved for registered guests. Day passes may be available on quieter days at the discretion of the hostel management — enquire at reception.