Rachamankha

The Rachamankha is a small, yet spacious gem in the crown of Thai boutique hotels located in the centre of the ancient moated city of Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand.


Designed by one of Thailand most renowned architects, and with the interior and landscaping designed by an equally renowned designer, the property is more a work of art than a hotel.


With only 18 superior rooms, 4 deluxe rooms, and 2 two-bedroomed suites set around two enclosed courtyards privacy and serenity are guaranteed. The colonnaded walkways - reminiscent of Lanna, Northern Thai, temples - and the central sala give the guestroom courtyards an ecclesiastical air: the structure of the sala is in fact a �wiharn�, or prayer hall from an old Lanna period temple that was earmarked for destruction; revived and rebuilt by the architects at Rachamankha as a very relaxing and quiet private lounge area for the guests.


There is a wonderful timeless quality to Rachamankha, as if it has been here for countless centuries but in fact it is a completely new structure which opened for business barely 5years ago. This sense of age was fully intended by the architect who didn�t want to create something new but wanted to explore the classic designs of Lanna temples, and ancient Chinese residences, with which he has created wonderfully serene and relaxing spaces that induce calm and quiet. These effects are enhanced by the extensive use of Asian antique object d�art.


The experience continues in the restaurant building which houses, on the second floor, a display of the owner�s private collection of Lanna period antiques: in fact, the property is decorated throughout with Asian antiques from the owner�s collections. The hotel�s heritage is also reflected in the cuisine: it is probably the only restaurant to feature dishes from Lanna, Tai-Yai, Thai and Myanmar cuisines together in the same menu, which is designed to educate diners, new to South East Asian cuisine, on how to order and fully enjoy the regions gastronomy. Chef�s own delicious take on European and fusion dishes is also featured, all of which are complimented by a comprehensive wine list from both the old and new worlds.


There is undoubtedly a classic style to Rachamankha, perhaps nowhere more evident in the hotel than the library. Fitted from floor to ceiling with polished hardwood and lit by a chandelier the effect is completed by the addition of crystal glasses and a crystal decanter of brandy provided free for guests� enjoyment.


Guest comfort is of paramount importance to all at Rachamankha, there has been no compromise in the name of design with either guest convenience or comfort. There is free wireless internet connection throughout the hotel, accessible in all the guestrooms, by the pool, in fact anywhere on the property. In keeping with the Asian theme, traditional Thai massage is available in the massage spa on the second floor of the pool pavilion - located on the axis of the 20metre teal-tiled pool. Every room has satellite TV, with a full range of channels, and a DVD player; there is a library of modern titles for free viewing by guests available at the front desk. The concierge service is ready to recommend all that Chiang Mai has to offer from an incredible variety of excellent restaurants, world class golf, truly unique shopping and cultural experiences, to jungle adventures: we are sure we can keep the most discerning of guests entertained in Chiang Mai.


Thus, for those here to explore Northern Thailand�s rich culture and heritage, The Rachamankha makes an ideal place to stay. Its combination of regional art, extraordinary interior design, and a mesmerizing temple-style architecture combine to create an intimately luxurious yet authentic ambience rare to find anywhere else.


NOTE: Guest must be 12 years of age or older. The hotel is adults-only.

There is also a 20-metre swimming pool, which is lined with sun beds and bougainvillea flowers. The airy Pool Bar offers snacks and drinks, while the open-air room above provides a massage service.