BACKPACK HOSTEL
Backpack Hostel sits in a prime spot in Tambon Wiang, Chiang Rai's central district, making it a natural choice for travellers moving through the region — particularly those heading onward to Laos via the slow boat route. The hostel is a roughly two-to-three minute walk from the bus station, which reviewers consistently highlight as a major practical advantage when arriving with luggage or catching an early departure. What sets this hostel apart is its staff, with guests repeatedly singling out team members by name for their genuine warmth, hands-on helpfulness, and personal touches like baking cookies and banana bread for guests. The atmosphere leans social and welcoming, suiting solo backpackers and independent travellers looking for a friendly, low-fuss base rather than a purely transactional stay. Rooms are clean and functional, appropriate for short to medium-length visits while exploring Chiang Rai's temples, night markets, and surrounding attractions including the White Temple and nearby hill tribe villages. Good to know: The hostel's proximity to the bus station makes it particularly well-suited for travellers on multi-country itineraries crossing into Laos. Given its popularity with the backpacker circuit, booking ahead is advisable during peak months — particularly around Christmas, Thai New Year in mid-April, and the November–February dry season when northern Thailand sees its highest visitor numbers.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After BACKPACK HOSTEL, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
If you are going to Chiang Rai to go on to Laos, you're making your life difficult if you don't stay at Backpack hostel. Firstly the location is fantastic, a 3 minute walk from the bus station and close to the night market. Ness and Apple were so helpful in getting me organised, they booked my tickets, helped me fill out the visa and gave me directions on how to get through the border. They also had great recommendations around chiang rai so i could make the most of my time in the city. The hostel is so lovely, clean and with an amazing roof garden with a great view of the surrounding mountains. If I'm ever back in chiang rai will definitely stay here again.
I stayed here for a few nights while in Chiang Rai, and I want to express my gratitude to the ladies (Apple and Som) running the front desk. They are truly there to provide you the best stay possible. Anytime of day they were able to recommended places to go or eat and inquire on any rentals you might want. They provide many services including bike rentals, laundry, and tours around the region. The hostel is affordable, clean and extremely accessible to the town. A bonus was having the bus station only a few minutes away on foot. I love Backpack Hostel!
Wonderful stay, very kind owner and team. Had two nights here after nan, and before slowboat crossing. 2 min walk from the bus station so it's very handy (but if coming from phrae that's the other bus station). And great rooftop view. We stayed in private twin room. We book our slowboat through the hotel too. Slightly higher price, but very easy. If you want to do it solo, you now need to stay the night in Chiang Khong as there is no longer the 6.30am bus to get to the border in time to buy the ticket at the pier. Enjoy.
Tips for Visiting Hotels & Resorts
Book Shoulder Season
May–June and September–October offer dramatic discounts (30–50% off peak rates) with fewer crowds. Weather is mixed but rarely a washout — afternoon showers clear quickly.
Compare OTAs and Direct Rates
Always check the hotel's own website after finding a rate on Agoda or Booking.com. Many Thai properties offer a best-rate guarantee or throw in perks like free breakfast when you book direct.
Pool Villa Doesn't Mean Expensive
Private pool villas in Krabi, Hua Hin, and Chiang Mai start around 2,500–4,000 THB/night — a fraction of Bali or Maldives prices. Search specifically for 'pool villa' to surface hidden gems.
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.
Golden Triangle
Educational park at the intersection of Myanmar, Laos & Thailand, once known for opium production.
Wat Huay Pla Kang
Temple complex featuring a 9-floor pagoda with 12 surrounding structures & a giant Buddha.
Similar Hotels & Resorts Across Thailand
Hilton Pattaya
Sophisticated lodging offering 5 restaurants & bars, plus an infinity pool, a spa & a gym.
Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya
Luxe property with streamlined quarters, a water park & a family lounge, plus 6 restaurants.
Arbour Hotel and Residence Pattaya
Refined quarters with kitchenettes in a premium hotel offering a restaurant, a spa & a rooftop pool.
Millennium Hilton Bangkok
Upscale riverside hotel on the Chao Phraya with standout staff, river-view rooms, and full resort amenities.
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)