Surr Bar
Perched on the 8th floor of the Art Mai Gallery Hotel along Nimmanahaeminda Road, this rooftop bar sits right in the middle of Chiang Mai's most energetic entertainment district. The elevated position lifts visitors above the street-level bustle of Nimman while keeping them firmly connected to its atmosphere, making it a natural choice for an evening out in the city. The setting rewards those who time their visit well. As the sun goes down, the rooftop comes into its own, offering open-air drinking with sweeping views across the Nimman neighbourhood. The venue draws a sociable mix of travellers and locals, and the consistently high visitor ratings point to reliable service and an experience that tends to deliver on the setting's promise. The hotel location also makes it straightforward to find and easy to access. Good to know: arriving around sunset is the recommended approach, both to catch the best light over the city and to secure a decent seat before the crowds build. Weekends and busy nights in the Nimman area can fill the bar quickly, so coming early rather than late generally means a more relaxed visit. As opening hours are not confirmed in advance, it is worth checking directly with the Art Mai Gallery Hotel before making it the centrepiece of an evening's plans.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Surr Bar, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
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.
Also Popular in Chiang Mai
Doi Suthep Temple
Hilltop temple overlooking Chiang Mai with stunning golden chedi

Tha Phae Gate
Chiang Mai's iconic eastern gate to the Old City, a historic Lanna-era landmark free to visit any time.
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Bustling night market featuring street food vendors & local crafts, plus souvenirs.

Wat Phra That Doi Kham
A hilltop golden Buddha temple near Chiang Mai offering panoramic city views, free entry, and genuine tranquillity.
Similar Nightlife & Bars Across Thailand
Nana Plaza
A multi-level nightlife complex on Sukhumvit Road packed with bars, music, and adult entertainment.
Khao San Road
Bangkok's iconic backpacker street packed with bars, street food, live music, and chaotic after-dark energy.
Café del Mar Phuket Beach Club
Upscale beachfront club in Kamala serving sundowners, DJs, and sunset views on Phuket's quieter west coast.
Illuzion Phuket
One of Phuket's biggest nightclubs, sitting at the heart of Bangla Road's famous entertainment strip.
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)