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Chiang Mai OriginaLive - The First Indie Livehouse in Chiang Mai
Nightlife & Bars
Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai OriginaLive - The First Indie Livehouse in Chiang Mai

4.9(117 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. Good to know: Opening hours are not publicly listed, so the safest approach is to arrive during evening hours when live performances typically get underway. The venue sits next door to Bear Wash laundromat, which makes it easy to find and has apparently led to more than a few happy accidents. Dress casually, come without expectations, and be prepared for a genuinely local night out rather than a polished tourist experience.

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.

Visitor Reviews

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+++++

Wow!!! I stumbled upon this Awesome place by accident while doing laundry next door! There was a totally bad ass band playing ‘Helicopter Secondhand’ , great vibes , good beer prices , welcoming and friendly!! Definitely give this place a visit! Not a tourist dance bar just a great local feel.

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

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)

Where to stay near Chiang Mai OriginaLive - The First Indie Livehouse in Chiang Mai

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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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