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: 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.
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Forbidden bar: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Forbidden bar worth visiting?
Forbidden bar holds a 4.7★ rating from 190 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated nightlife & bars in Chiang Mai.
What are the opening hours of Forbidden bar?
Forbidden bar is typically open 18:00-00:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
How expensive is Forbidden bar?
Forbidden bar is moderately priced (฿฿) relative to other nightlife & bars in Chiang Mai.
When is the best time to visit Forbidden bar?
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 Forbidden bar located?
Forbidden bar is at 14, 2 Nimmana Haeminda Rd Lane 5, Tambon Su Thep, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, in Chiang Mai. Getting around Chiang Mai: Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks); Grab (available in city centre).
Location Info
14, 2 Nimmana Haeminda Rd Lane 5, Tambon Su Thep, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand090 317 6619www.facebook.com/forbiddenbar.cnxVisitor 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
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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.
Nearby Places

Surr Bar
Rooftop bar atop Art Mai Gallery Hotel in Nimman, offering city views and a lively evening atmosphere.

ARISE Rooftop Bar - Nimman
A glass-sided pool, a proper cocktail bar and Nimman spread out below you at sunset.

The Continental Bar
A well-regarded bar on Nimman's lively Lane 5, drawing locals and travellers for relaxed evening drinks.

CMBC Chiangmaibarcompany
Hipster dive bar in Nimman with vinyl DJs, strong sound system, and unbeatable happy hour deals.
Similar Nightlife & Bars Across Thailand

Pattaya Walking Street
Loud, neon, adults-only after dark, and the seafood is easier before the 9pm crush.

Nana Plaza
Adults-only, neon-soaked and unapologetic, and best understood after 9pm rather than described.

Khao San Road
Loud, tacky, unfiltered and worth one night of your trip, ideally between 7 and 10pm.

Café del Mar Phuket Beach Club
Come for sundowners at 4pm, stay for the DJs, and don't expect a quiet lunch.
Where to stay near Forbidden bar
Find hotels in Chiang Mai on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
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)
