In Chiang Mai, a great massage is part of daily life. An hour of skilled traditional Thai massage costs less than a coffee in most Western cities, the north is one of the homes of the art, and you can get one on practically every street, or learn to do it yourself at a school that has trained therapists for decades. This guide covers where to go, where to learn, the types, prices, and the etiquette that makes it a pleasure for everyone.
For the wider scene, see our wellness hub and spas guide.
Where to get a massage
- Lila Thai Massage: A standout for quality and ethics. Founded by a former women's-prison director, it trains and employs released women, with professionally trained therapists and several Old City branches. Excellent, and a social enterprise worth supporting.
- Fah Lanna Spa: A beautiful teak-house spa for a step up from a shop massage, with a renowned herbal steam room.
- Makkha Health & Spa: A lovely ancient-house spa, great value for the setting.
- Green Bamboo Massage: A well-loved spot for quality massage at fair prices.
- Neighbourhood shops: Found everywhere, offering a fine 250-baht hour. Follow the busy ones.
The types of massage
| Type | What it is | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Thai | Acupressure + stretching on a mat, in loose clothes | Tension, mobility |
| Oil massage | Gentler Swedish-style with oil | Relaxation |
| Foot massage | Reflexology of feet and lower legs | Tired legs, a quick fix |
| Herbal compress | Warm steamed herb poultice pressed on the body | Deep relaxation |
Traditional Thai massage is firmer and more active than a Western oil massage, using assisted stretches and compression along energy lines. Tell your therapist your preferred pressure and any injuries.
Learning Thai massage
Chiang Mai is one of the world's best places to learn. The historic and respected schools include:
- The Old Medicine Hospital (Shivagakomarpaj): Operating since 1962, a pioneer of northern-style Thai massage, with structured courses from 2 to 5 days and longer.
- The Thai Massage School of Chiang Mai (TMC): A well-regarded school offering certified courses.
- Sunshine, ITM, and Baan Hom Samunphrai: Other established schools with beginner-to-professional courses, some live-in.
Courses run from a 1 to 2 day introduction (a fun holiday experience) to multi-week professional certifications. Many travellers leave able to give a proper massage.
Etiquette and tips
- Wear the loose clothes provided for traditional Thai massage; undress to comfort under a towel for oil.
- Communicate pressure ("bao bao" for soft, "nak" for firm) and flag injuries or pregnancy.
- Speak up if it hurts. Thai massage can be intense; good therapists adjust.
- Tip 50 to 100 baht for a good massage; it is customary and appreciated.
- Avoid right after eating, and hydrate afterwards.
- Choose reputable shops and spas; avoid the obvious adult-service venues in parts of Loi Kroh.
The bottom line
A daily massage is one of the simplest pleasures of Chiang Mai, and one of the cheapest. Support Lila, treat yourself to a teak-house spa, and consider a short course to take the skill home. To book a spa treatment, search Klook for Chiang Mai spa and massage. For more, see our spas guide and wellness hub.