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Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai OriginaLive - The First Indie Livehouse in Chiang Mai

4.9(125 reviews)

Tucked into the Phra Sing neighbourhood, this small bar holds the distinction of being Chiang Mai's first dedicated indie livehouse, making it a genuine landmark for live music fans looking beyond the city's more commercial nightlife. The venue has carved out a loyal following among locals and travellers alike, functioning as a platform for independent artists, local bands, and open mic nights in an intimate, unpretentious setting.

Visitors can expect a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with a notably good sound system for a space of its size. Past performers have included acts like Tae Simong and Para Siptation, and open mic nights regularly draw talented musicians. Beer is reasonably priced — Singha runs around 80 baht — and the crowd leans local rather than tourist-heavy, giving the place an authentic, unhurried energy. Several visitors have described stumbling in by chance and returning multiple nights in a row, which says a great deal about what the venue delivers.

Experience hints

Hidden gem
Visitor favorite

Pair your visit. After Chiang Mai OriginaLive - The First Indie Livehouse in Chiang Mai, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.

Reviews from Google

Stumbled in here by chance, on the way back from another bar and heard the music, it was top class, we went there 3 nights in a row, they had open mic night and all of the musicians were awesome, this bar, although small has a great vibe, I loved it and I'll go back next time I'm in Chiang Mai, A+++++

Super nice and small bar! Tae Simong was playing when I was here, I really enjoyed his performance. After him Para Siptation, who were amazinggg! Would love to go again

Nice place to drink next to laundry (Bear Wash). Live music, very chill and quiet. 80 baht for a Singha. Nice and relaxed

A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 125 reviews on Google.

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Chiang Mai OriginaLive - The First Indie Livehouse in Chiang Mai: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chiang Mai OriginaLive - The First Indie Livehouse in Chiang Mai worth visiting?

Chiang Mai OriginaLive - The First Indie Livehouse in Chiang Mai holds a 4.9★ rating from 125 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated nightlife & bars in Chiang Mai.

When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai OriginaLive - The First Indie Livehouse in Chiang Mai?

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 Chiang Mai OriginaLive - The First Indie Livehouse in Chiang Mai located?

Chiang Mai OriginaLive - The First Indie Livehouse in Chiang Mai is at QXMV+J4C, Phra Sing, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, in Chiang Mai. Getting around Chiang Mai: Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks); Grab (available in city centre).

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

High

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)

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Tips for Visiting Nightlife & Bars

Carry Your Passport or a Copy

Clubs and some bars check IDs strictly, especially in Bangkok's Thonglor, RCA, and Sukhumvit areas. A photo of your passport info page on your phone usually works, but carrying a laminated photocopy is safer.

Know the Closing Times

Legal closing time is 2 AM for most venues, though enforcement varies. In Bangkok's designated entertainment zones (RCA, Silom Soi 2/4, Khao San), some clubs stay open until 4 AM. Islands tend to be more relaxed about hours.

Buy Bucket Drinks Cautiously

Island bucket drinks (mixed spirits in a small bucket) are cheap and fun but notoriously strong and inconsistent. Stick to one, stay hydrated, and never leave your drink unattended at beach parties.

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2 MoonMuang Rd Lane 2, Tambon Phra Sing, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand

A tucked-away bar near Chiang Mai's old city, known for friendly staff and strong cocktails.

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