Hai Ya

Hai Ya is a small sub-district of the Chiang Mai; located a few minutes away from the busy tourist areas near the Chiang Mai gate.

There are inexpensive accommodation options for travellers who would like to stay here.

Hai Ya Accommodation, Hotels, Apartments, Hostels & Temples, Chiang Mai

Walking around the charming town is a great opportunity to mingle with the locals and observe them as they go about their daily lives. A significant place of interest here is the Old Chiang Mai Cultural Centre; a terrific institution dedicated to showcasing the Lanna-Thai culture. It’s an interactive museum that allows visitors to step back in time to learn about and experience authentic Lanna culture, which is the heart of Chiang Mai.

There is a wide range of activities to enjoy at the Old Chiang Mai Cultural Centre. Dine on traditional Lanna cuisine at Khantoke, as you are entertained by Thai music and dancing. During evenings, talented local artists from the hill tribes of Northern Thailand put on shows and cultural exhibits that will introduce you to their heritage and culture. Check out the Saw Hong House; a preserved Lanna Galae building where you can witness the old Lanna ways of living. The Ho Tri Tower within the grounds is a significant religious building, which has been well-preserved.

When the sun goes down, visitors are encouraged to walk around the Old Chiang Mai street, which comes alive with colourful stalls selling a variety of handmade crafts and souvenirs that you won’t find in Bangkok. The Old Chiang Mai Cultural Centre is your one-stop-shop for all things Lanna culture, and it doesn’t get better than this educational and entertaining destination that all ages will appreciate.

The impressive Wat Sri Suphan is also located in Hai Ya. It’s also known as the Silver Temple because most of it has been made in silver; indeed an astounding feat and a unique temple in Thailand. It was built during the 1500s, originally intended to serve as the primary temple for the silver-smithing village. The temple is surrounded by small silver making studios where you can see artists up close as they work on intricate silver pieces.