BaanThai Cookery School
BaanThai Cookery School offers an immersive introduction to traditional Thai cuisine, combining a guided visit to a local market with a full hands-on cooking session in a well-equipped kitchen. Instructors lead small groups through sourcing fresh, authentic ingredients before returning to the school to prepare multi-course meals — typically five to six dishes — covering classic Thai recipes with attention to the spices, techniques, and cultural context behind each one. The experience is structured yet relaxed, making it suitable for complete beginners and more confident home cooks alike.
The school operates out of a clean, spacious kitchen facility in the Phra Singh area of Chiang Mai, close enough to the old city that some visitors discover it simply by walking past. Classes are led by knowledgeable, personable instructors — regulars in visitor accounts include Boom and Tommy — who explain each step clearly and keep the atmosphere friendly and engaging. A cookbook is included with the class, giving participants something practical to take home alongside their new skills.
Classes run daily except Sunday, from 09:00 to 20:30, suggesting multiple session times throughout the day. Pick-up from accommodation is available, which simplifies logistics considerably. Booking in advance is strongly recommended, as classes appear to fill up quickly — particularly during Chiang Mai's busy tourist season between November and February. Check the school's website for current schedules, pricing, and reservation options.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After BaanThai Cookery School, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Genuinely couldn’t recommend this experience more. We were picked up from our accommodation and taken first to the local market. The wonderful Boom walked us through all the staple ingredients in Thai dishes. She was so knowledgeable and we learnt so much. Then we were taken to the school and greeted with a drink and a snack before we began cooking. We were able to select which dishes we wanted to make. The chefs were all so friendly and made everything seem easy and achievable! It’s genuinely the first time I’ve really enjoyed cooking. I was particularly proud of myself for making spring rolls and curry paste from scratch! The Mango sticky rice was also a personal highlight for me. Everything was delicious. Crucially we were given a fantastic cook book at the end to take home all the knowledge and skills we picked up. This is an essential visit in Chiang Mai!
The whole experience was perfect — from picking up fresh ingredients at a local market, warming up with a welcome drink, and cooking a five-course authentic Thai meal, to learning about the culture and, of course, enjoying the dishes at the end. The teachers are considerate, patient, and speak English very well. At the conclusion of the session, you even receive a recipe book to take home. And did I mention that the facilities are spotless and beautifully maintained? Thank you, Boom and Tommy!
Great experience from the market to the table! Instructors are informative and friendly and really know how to use the right spices. The food was delicious and the cookbook that is included is a bonus. Anyone can walk out of this class and start cooking home made Thai food. Come hungry because it’s a lot of food.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 216 reviews on Google.
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BaanThai Cookery School: Frequently Asked Questions
Is BaanThai Cookery School worth visiting?
BaanThai Cookery School holds a 4.9★ rating from 216 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated activities & tours in Chiang Mai.
What are the opening hours of BaanThai Cookery School?
BaanThai Cookery School is typically open 09:00-20:30 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit BaanThai Cookery School?
The best months to visit Chiang Mai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January & Songkran (April) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: March – May (smoke & heat).
Where is BaanThai Cookery School located?
BaanThai Cookery School is at 9 Prapokklao Rd. Lane 9, ตำบล พระสิงห์ Mueng, เชียงใหม่ 50200, Thailand, in Chiang Mai. Getting around Chiang Mai: Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks); Grab (available in city centre).
Location Info
9 Prapokklao Rd. Lane 9, ตำบล พระสิงห์ Mueng, เชียงใหม่ 50200, Thailand+66 65 927 7757www.baanthaicookery.com/Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
15°C – 36°C(59°F – 97°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January & Songkran (April)
Getting there
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) has direct flights from Bangkok (1 hr), Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Overnight sleeper trains from Bangkok take ~12 hrs.
Getting around
- •Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks)
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Motorbike rental (฿150–250/day)
- •Tuk-tuks (negotiate price first)
Where to stay near BaanThai Cookery School
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Tips for Visiting Activities & Tours
Vet Elephant Sanctuaries
Only visit sanctuaries that prohibit riding, use no chains or bullhooks, and let elephants roam freely. Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai set the standard. If a place offers painting shows or circus tricks, walk away.
Book Popular Activities Online
Booking platforms like GetYourGuide give you instant confirmation and, on many activities, free cancellation — and you can read recent reviews before committing. Compare with local agencies for multi-day trips where negotiation might save more.
Do Outdoor Activities in the Morning
Heat and humidity peak from noon to 3 PM. Schedule jungle treks, cycling tours, and outdoor cooking classes for early morning. Water activities are more flexible since you're in and out of the sea.
Nearby Places

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Chiangmai Smiley Tour
A centrally located Chiang Mai tour operator open daily with long hours for flexible booking.

Joy Elephant Sanctuary Chiang Mai
A no-touch elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai where ethical wildlife observation meets genuine conservation education.
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Where to stay near BaanThai Cookery School
Find hotels in Chiang Mai on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
15°C – 36°C(59°F – 97°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January & Songkran (April)
Getting there
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) has direct flights from Bangkok (1 hr), Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Overnight sleeper trains from Bangkok take ~12 hrs.
Getting around
- •Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks)
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Motorbike rental (฿150–250/day)
- •Tuk-tuks (negotiate price first)