Sound Up
Tucked along Moon Muang Road Lane 2 in Chiang Mai's Old City, Sound Up is a straightforward bar and pub catering to the mix of travellers and locals that gravitate toward this lively part of the city. Its central location puts it within easy walking distance of the Night Bazaar, the Old City moat, and a cluster of nearby temples, making it a convenient stop for those already exploring the neighbourhood on foot.
The atmosphere leans casual and unpretentious, typical of Chiang Mai's relaxed bar scene rather than the louder club culture found elsewhere in Thailand. The mid-range pricing keeps things accessible without sacrificing the social vibe, and the venue draws a consistent crowd looking for drinks and easy conversation in a no-fuss setting. It suits travellers who want a low-key evening out rather than a high-energy nightlife experience.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Sound Up, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Also Popular in Chiang Mai
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Chiang Mai
No riding, no tricks: a day of feeding and mud with rescued elephants in the Mae Wang hills.
Doi Suthep Temple
Go at first light, before the tour vans arrive, and the golden chedi and the whole Chiang Mai valley are yours.
Tha Phae Gate
Free, open all hours, and best after dark when the brick gate is lit and the square fills up.
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Get there around 7pm, before the crowds land, and browse the whole stretch before you buy anything.
Sound Up: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sound Up worth visiting?
Sound Up holds a 3.9★ rating from 681 Google reviews. Reviews are mixed, so check recent visitor feedback above to see if it fits your plans.
What are the opening hours of Sound Up?
Sound Up is typically open 23:00-04:00 — 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 Sound Up?
Sound Up is moderately priced (฿฿) relative to other nightlife & bars in Chiang Mai.
When is the best time to visit Sound Up?
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 Sound Up located?
Sound Up is at 5, 3 MoonMuang Rd Lane 2, Tambon Phra Sing, 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
5, 3 MoonMuang Rd Lane 2, Tambon Phra Sing, 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 Sound Up
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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
Lost Hut
A budget-friendly, laid-back bar on Moon Muang Road, open nightly from 5 PM in Chiang Mai's historic Phra Sing area.
Chiang Mai OriginaLive - The First Indie Livehouse in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai's first indie livehouse, serving cold Singha and showcasing local and independent live acts nightly.
Jungle Night Bar
A rooftop canal-side bar in Chiang Mai's old city serving cocktails in a relaxed, atmospheric setting.
SPACE BAR CNX
A tucked-away bar near Chiang Mai's old city, known for friendly staff and strong cocktails.
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 Sound Up
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)