


Forbidden bar
Tucked along Lane 5 of Nimmana Haeminda Road, Forbidden Bar sits in the heart of Nimman, Chiang Mai's most cosmopolitan neighbourhood and a natural hub for evening socialising. The area is dense with cafes, restaurants, and bars, making it an easy starting point or centrepiece for a night out in the city. The bar carries a strong and consistent reputation among those who have visited, with a social atmosphere that appeals to both travellers and locals alike. The setting is characteristic of Nimman's bar scene — casual, accessible, and well-frequented enough that there is usually a lively crowd without feeling overwhelming. It suits those looking for a relaxed drink in a neighbourhood that rewards wandering. Good to know: Specific opening hours are not listed online, so it is worth confirming times directly before making the trip, especially on slower weeknights. The Nimman area is easy to reach by tuk-tuk or songthaew from most parts of central Chiang Mai, and parking in the lane network can be tight, so arriving on two wheels or on foot from nearby is often the simpler option. Casual dress is the norm throughout this part of the city.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Forbidden bar, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Location Info
14, 2 Nimmana Haeminda Rd Lane 5, Tambon Su Thep, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, ThailandVisitor 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
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 Forbidden bar
Find hotels in Chiang Mai on the booking sites travellers trust most.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
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.
Also Popular in Chiang Mai

Doi Suthep Temple
A sacred mountaintop Buddhist temple from 1383, offering a golden chedi and sweeping views over Chiang Mai.

Tha Phae Gate
Chiang Mai's iconic eastern Old City gate, a restored Lanna-era landmark surrounded by a lively public square.

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
A sprawling nightly market on Changklan Road blending street food, local crafts, and lively atmosphere.

Wat Phra That Doi Kham
A hilltop Buddhist temple southwest of Chiang Mai, free to enter and genuinely peaceful year-round.
Similar Nightlife & Bars Across Thailand

Nana Plaza
Bangkok's most famous adult entertainment complex — a neon-lit, multi-storey plaza packed with bars and clubs on Sukhumvit Road.

Khao San Road
Bangkok's iconic backpacker strip packs bars, street food, live music, and souvenir shops into one loud, neon-lit stretch.

Café del Mar Phuket Beach Club
Stylish beach club on Kamala's shoreline, pairing sunset views with DJ nights and quality food.

Illuzion Phuket
A large-scale nightclub on Bangla Road bringing high-production DJ nights to the heart of Patong.
Location Info
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
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 Forbidden bar
Find hotels in Chiang Mai on the booking sites travellers trust most.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.