Smokey Chiang Mai
Tucked away on Soi Si Phum 2 near the old city, Smokey Chiang Mai is a rock bar that draws both locals and travellers with its dedicated live music programme, dim atmospheric lighting, and décor built around rock and roll culture. The sound system is a genuine highlight, and the live bands perform regularly, giving the venue an energy that sets it apart from the more generic nightlife options in the area.
Visitors can expect a welcoming, unpretentious crowd and staff who are happy to chat. Beyond the music, there is a pool table for those who want to hang back and play between sets. Cocktails are well-regarded, and drink prices are notably affordable by Chiang Mai standards — a detail that consistently comes up among guests. The owner has a reputation for making newcomers feel at home, contributing to the bar's relaxed but lively atmosphere.
Smokey opens daily from 17:00, with Saturday nights running until 01:00 — making it a solid choice for a late evening out. For the fullest experience, weekend visits are recommended when the crowd is at its liveliest. The bar is conveniently situated close to the Zoe in Yellow area, so it fits naturally into a wider night out in that part of the city. No booking information is listed, so walk-ins appear to be the norm.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Smokey Chiang Mai, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Smokey is hands down one of the best rock bar in Chiang Mai! From the moment you step inside, the atmosphere hits you—dim lighting, killer sound quality, and décor that screams rock 'n' roll. The live music here is absolutely electrifying, with talented bands that know how to keep the crowd energized. The drink menu is impressive too—local beers, signature cocktails, and classic options, all reasonably priced. The staff is friendly, attentive, and clearly passionate about the vibe they create. Whether you're a die-hard rock fan or just looking for a cool place to unwind, Smokey has you covered. Located right in the heart of the city, it's a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. If you're in Chiang Mai and love good music, great drinks, and an unforgettable night out, Smokey is the place to be. Highly recommend!
Such a fun bar on a weekend night, the most affordable drink prices I’ve been in Chiang Mai yet, very friendly bartenders, and really great band!
Nice place with a live band and a pool table. Also good cocktails and nice vibe!
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 44 reviews on Google.
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Smokey Chiang Mai: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Smokey Chiang Mai worth visiting?
Smokey Chiang Mai holds a 4.7★ rating from 44 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated nightlife & bars in Chiang Mai.
What are the opening hours of Smokey Chiang Mai?
Smokey Chiang Mai is typically open 17:00-00:00 — 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.
When is the best time to visit Smokey Chiang Mai?
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 Smokey Chiang Mai located?
Smokey Chiang Mai is at 48 Soi Si Phum 2, Tambon Si Phum, 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
48 Soi Si Phum 2, Tambon Si Phum, 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 Smokey 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.
Nearby Places
BlackLight CNX
A UV-lit Old City bar where the crowd mixes fast and nobody leaves when they planned to.
Zoe in Yellow
Backpacker party central in the Old City, dead before nine and heaving by eleven.
Roots Rock Reggae Chaingmai
A chill reggae bar on Ratchapakhinai Road with live bands, cold drinks, and a loyal local following.
TongBar
Intimate live music bar on Ratvithi Road where rock, funk, and jazz bands play nightly from 6pm.
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 Smokey Chiang Mai
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)