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Forbidden bar
Nightlife & Bars
Chiang Mai

Forbidden bar

4.7(172 reviews)

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

Hidden gem
Visitor favorite

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 Forbidden bar

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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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