Stay In Hostel
Stay In Hostel is a small, well-run hostel in the Muang district of Chiang Rai, positioned within walking distance of local food venues and not far from the airport. The property draws consistently strong praise from guests, particularly for its cleanliness across both dormitory and private rooms, reliable air conditioning, and a welcoming atmosphere that suits solo travellers and couples alike. The hostel's standout feature is the personal touch provided by the owner, who is regularly mentioned by name in reviews for his attentiveness and hard work. Guests can expect a complimentary breakfast each morning — typically boiled eggs, toast, jam, cookies, and coffee — which adds genuine value for budget-conscious travellers. The female dormitory is noted for being quiet and clean, and the property has demonstrated experience helping guests arrange practical travel logistics, including Laos visa preparation and slow boat trip bookings, making it a useful base for those continuing onward through Southeast Asia. Good to know: Stay In Hostel maintains an active Facebook page rather than a dedicated booking website, so travellers are advised to reach out directly through that channel to confirm availability, check-in times, and current room options before arrival. Given the hostel's small size and strong reputation, booking in advance is a sensible precaution, particularly during the cooler peak travel months between November and February when northern Thailand sees its highest visitor numbers.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Stay In Hostel, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
A very nice place to stay in Chiang Rai. The room and common areas were very clean and comfortable, and the breakfast was okay — boiled eggs, toast, some jam, and cookies. The owner is super friendly and helpful with anything you need. He even helped us book a scooter, which was delivered to the hostel within minutes. Overall, everything was great. Would definitely recommend.
I had a fantastic experience here. The man running hostel works very hard to keep the hostel clean and he also prepares a free breakfast. This was probably one of the best hostels I’ve stayed in. Clean, good location, comfortable bed. Overall a great hostel.
Very cute hostel! The private room was very nice with good AC and the WCs and showers were clean. The breakfast was simple but good and Matt was really friendly and gave us some good sightseeing tips
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.
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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)