Khua Lek (Iron Bridge)
Spanning the Ping River along Loi Kroh Road in central Chiang Mai, this historic iron bridge carries genuine heritage character and serves as both a functional river crossing and a recognised landmark in the Chang Moi neighbourhood. Its rustic ironwork and quiet riverside setting give it a distinctly unhurried atmosphere, a contrast to Chiang Mai's busier attractions that makes it a natural stop for those exploring the city at a slower pace.
The bridge earns particular attention after dark, when coloured lights illuminate the iron structure and the riverside setting becomes noticeably more atmospheric, making it a popular spot for evening photography. The restaurants lining the western bank give visitors a practical reason to linger, and during the annual Loy Krathong festival the bridge takes on special significance as krathongs drift downstream beneath it, drawing both locals and travellers to the riverbank in significant numbers.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Khua Lek (Iron Bridge), round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Khua Lek Bridge is a peaceful and charming spot, often appreciated for its natural surroundings. The bridge itself is made of iron and has a rustic feel, which blends well with the quiet landscape around it. It’s a good place for a short walk, taking photos, or just enjoying the calm environment. While it’s not a major tourist attraction, it offers a nice break from busy city life. If you are nearby, it’s worth a quick visit.
Iconic Chiang Mai site, the bridge spans the Ping River, and is at the better end of Loh Kroh Road I have good memories of Loy Krathong festival, with many many Krathongs riding down the river. Today River not so pretty
Nice little iron bridge. More beautiful after dark as it is illuminated using different lights with changing colours. A good place for a photoshoot. The restaurants on the west side of this bridge makes the area around it even more beautiful as they have nicely decorated their seating areas with different kinds of lights. Go there if you have time but don’t skip other things for this. After all it’s just a bridge
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 1,246 reviews on Google.
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Khua Lek (Iron Bridge): Frequently Asked Questions
Is Khua Lek (Iron Bridge) worth visiting?
Khua Lek (Iron Bridge) holds a 4.5★ rating from 1,246 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated activities & tours in Chiang Mai.
What are the opening hours of Khua Lek (Iron Bridge)?
Khua Lek (Iron Bridge) is open 24 hours a day — 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 Khua Lek (Iron Bridge)?
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 Khua Lek (Iron Bridge) located?
Khua Lek (Iron Bridge) is at Q2M3+HRW, Loi Kroh Rd, Tambon Chang Moi, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand, in Chiang Mai. Getting around Chiang Mai: Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks); Grab (available in city centre).
Location Info
Q2M3+HRW, Loi Kroh Rd, Tambon Chang Moi, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50000, ThailandVisitor 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 Khua Lek (Iron Bridge)
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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
JAO Ping River Cruise
A scenic Ping River cruise experience departing from Chiang Mai's Anantara hotel, open daily.
Mae Ping River Cruise
A relaxed two-hour cruise along the Mae Ping River, with a midway stop at a riverside farm village.
My Chiang Mai Tour
Private tour agency offering customised day trips and multi-day tours around Chiang Mai and northern Thailand.
Nawarat Bridge
A historic 1910 bridge spanning the Ping River, connecting old Chiang Mai with the east bank and offering calm riverside views.
Similar Activities & Tours Across Thailand
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket
No rides, no shows, just feeding, mud and washing rescued elephants in the Kathu jungle.
Safari World
A full day out east of the city, and the shows are what people remember most.
Nongnooch Pattaya Garden
Half a day minimum, 500 acres of themed gardens and dinosaurs, and you'll want to be there by 8am.
Lumphini Park
Bangkok's green lung, free to enter, and full of water monitor lizards the size of your leg.
Where to stay near Khua Lek (Iron Bridge)
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)