Forbidden bar
A well-regarded bar on Nimman's lively Lane 5, drawing locals and travelers to Chiang Mai's nightlife scene.
Plan your visit
- Hours
- Daily 18:00–00:00
- Price
- $$$$
- Mid-range
Carry Your Passport or a Copy
Clubs and some bars check IDs strictly, the big clubs most of all. A photo of your passport info page on your phone usually works, but carrying a laminated photocopy is safer.
Details
- Phone
- 090 317 6619
Full opening hours
Is this your business?Feature it
Chiang Mai after dark
Something to book for the evening in Chiang Mai.
Why go, and how to do it well
Tucked along Lane 5 of Nimmana Haeminda Road, Forbidden Bar sits in the heart of Nimman, Chiang Mai's most cosmopolitan neighborhood and a natural hub for evening socializing. 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 travelers 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 neighborhood that rewards wandering. 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.
Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Oct 2026
Stay within reach of Forbidden bar
SponsoredSearch Chiang Mai hotels with your dates. Filter for free cancellation if you want to hold a room and decide later.
See hotels near Forbidden barOpens Booking.com with your dates
Chiang Mai after dark
Something to book for the evening in Chiang Mai.
Around here, on foot
Well-rated places within a short walk of Forbidden bar, nearest first. Minutes are at an easy pace in the heat.
- 1 minNORI Sky TerraceRestaurants & Food · 10 m · 4.0★
- 1 minJarid Thai Food & Fine WinesRestaurants & Food · 50 m · 4.7★
- 1 minSurr BarNightlife & Bars · 50 m · 4.9★
- 1 minOasis Spa (Chiang Mai, Nimman)Wellness & Spas · 60 m · 4.8★
- 1 minKao Soy NimmanRestaurants & Food · 110 m · 4.2★
- 1 minBlackitch Artisan KitchenRestaurants & Food · 110 m · 4.6★
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Forbidden bar, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
14, 2 Nimmana Haeminda Rd Lane 5, Tambon Su Thep, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Open in Google MapsMore nightlife & bars nearby
All within a 3-minute walk of Forbidden bar.

Surr Bar

ARISE Rooftop Bar - Nimman

The Continental Bar

CMBC Chiangmaibarcompany
Tips for Visiting Nightlife & Bars
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.
Arrange Your Ride Home
Use Grab (ride-hailing app) to get home safely — taxis outside nightlife areas late at night often refuse meters. Set up the app before going out, and keep your phone charged.
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: Mid-February – April (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 center).
Also popular in Chiang Mai

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Chiang Mai

Han Teung Chiangmai

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Calm Massage and Spa ( Chiang Mai Gate branch )
Similar Nightlife & Bars across Thailand

Young

Spirit Bar & Jewelry

BARRUB Kanchanaburi




