Cooking With Ann ( Chiang Rai Cooking Class )
Run by the warm and knowledgeable Ann, this Chiang Rai cooking class offers a genuine immersion into northern Thai cuisine that goes well beyond the kitchen. Classes begin with a visit to a local market, where Ann guides participants through fresh ingredient selection, answers questions about unfamiliar produce, and even offers tastings along the way — durian and fresh coconut water among them. Back at Ann's home kitchen, every step of the cooking process is demonstrated clearly before participants try it themselves, resulting in a hands-on experience that feels personal rather than performative. Ann tailors each class to the group, asking about favourite dishes beforehand so the session reflects what participants actually want to learn. She is notably accommodating with dietary requirements, including complex needs such as coeliac disease, making this a welcoming option for travellers who sometimes struggle to find flexible food experiences. The intimate, home-based setting keeps group sizes small and the atmosphere relaxed, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and cook at a comfortable pace. Good to know: Classes run seven days a week from 8am to 8pm, and Ann offers hotel pick-up, which simplifies logistics for those without their own transport. Booking in advance is strongly recommended, as the small-group format means spaces fill quickly. Visit the website at cookingwithann.com to check available class times, confirm dietary requirements, and secure a reservation before arrival in Chiang Rai.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Cooking With Ann ( Chiang Rai Cooking Class ), round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
Following a cooking class is a great way to discover local culture in so many ways. Ann first asked us about our favorite Thai dishes and based on our choice, we went to the local market to shop. This part of the experience alone was really interesting and brings you to places you would have never seen otherwise. Back in the kitchen, we had fun learning, tasting and chatting with Ann. She is very patient, available, nice and welcoming. We booked at 10 am which was great since we made 5 different dishes and got to eating by 13:30-14h. I’m sure it can be shorter as it is really based on what you ask for. Ann is very helpful and answers fast via WhatsApp. All food restrictions and allergies are well respected. If you are in Chiang Rai, love Thai food and want to experience a private, traditional food discovery, this is for you!
I had a lovely cooking class with Ann and learned so much about the Thai cuisine! Ann's friendly approach on teaching and showing you every exact step for you to create a wonderful tasting authentic thai meal was such a joy to participate in! Communication went very easy through WhatsApp and eventhough I requested to attend the class last minute on the same morning it was no issue at all. I learned to cook the Tom Yum soup, Pad Thai and Mango Sticky rice and all turned out the best versions of the dish I had tasted in Thailand so far! Would come back any time and recommend to everyone! Thank you Ann 🙏😊
Had an amazing culinary experience with Ann today! Started with a very interesting market tour to purchase ingredients and answer all of our questions! Home to her kitchen with every step incredibly organised to cook four amazing dishes. Ann has great humour, fantastic knowledge and experience and obviously loves what she does. The flavours and the end result was sensational, highly recommend!!
Location Info
73 Moo 20 ถนน Sahamit, Tambon Rop Wiang, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand+66 80 684 9695www.cookingwithann.com/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 Through Klook or GetYourGuide
These platforms offer instant confirmation, free cancellation on most activities, and prices that are often lower than walk-up rates. 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.
Also Popular in Chiang Rai
Rong Suea Ten Temple
Monumental, modern Buddhist temple distinguished by its vivid blue coloring & elaborate carvings.
Wat Rong Khun
Contemporary Buddhist temple drawing massive crowds with its unique, intricate white exterior.
Wat Huay Pla Kang
Temple complex featuring a 9-floor pagoda with 12 surrounding structures & a giant Buddha.
Choui Fong Tea Plantation
A working hillside tea plantation in Chiang Rai offering scenic terraces, tea tasting, food, and a shop.
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Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – September
Avg. temperature
14°C – 35°C(57°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Mae Fah Luang Airport (CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). Bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. Scenic Golden Triangle road trip from Chiang Mai.
Getting around
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Songthaews
- •Motorbike rental (฿200/day)
- •Car hire (for Golden Triangle & hill tribes)