CMU Clock Tower
Situated near the back entrance of Chiang Mai University in the Su Thep district, this modest clock tower serves as both a historical landmark and a practical roundabout marker in the university precinct. While it is not an imposing structure by any measure, it holds a quiet civic significance and is genuinely useful as a navigational reference point for anyone heading to or from the CMU campus. One of its more charming features, noted by visitors, is that the tower changes colour every hour, adding a subtle visual element that rewards those who linger nearby.
Visitors should set their expectations accordingly: this is a neighbourhood landmark rather than a grand architectural showpiece, and those anticipating a towering structure may find it smaller than imagined. Its appeal lies more in its role within the local streetscape and the steady rhythm of university life surrounding it. The area offers an authentic slice of everyday Chiang Mai, away from the more heavily touristed parts of the city.
Book tours & tickets in Chiang Mai
Day trips, skip-the-line entry, and guided experiences around CMU Clock Tower — book ahead and skip the on-the-ground markup.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After CMU Clock Tower, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
When I drive pass it verytimes, it seems time stop at here.
It’s not so significant to call an iconic tower, but it stands out a bit. This clock tower also works as a roundabout.
I thought it’s a big tower lol. Was a bit disappointed
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 155 reviews on Google.
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.
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Get there around 7pm, before the crowds land, and browse the whole stretch before you buy anything.
Central Chiangmai
Come for the fourth-floor food hall, stay because you've forgotten what you actually came to buy.
MAYA Lifestyle Shopping Center
Air-con, cheap food courts and a rooftop with mountain views at the top of Nimman.
CMU Clock Tower: Frequently Asked Questions
Is CMU Clock Tower worth visiting?
CMU Clock Tower holds a 4.4★ rating from 155 Google reviews — a strong rating for temples & culture in Chiang Mai.
What are the opening hours of CMU Clock Tower?
CMU Clock Tower is open 24 hours a day — 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 CMU Clock Tower?
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 CMU Clock Tower located?
CMU Clock Tower is at QXW3+J84, Soi Khelang 4, 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
QXW3+J84, Soi Khelang 4, Tambon Su Thep, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailandwww.cmu.ac.th/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)
Where to stay near CMU Clock Tower
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.
Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Nearby Places
31st Century Museum
A contemplative art space near Chiang Mai's Wat Umong, exploring Buddhist philosophy through expressive contemporary art.
Wattana Art Gallery
A working artist's private gallery near Wat Umong, showcasing diverse contemporary works by owner Wattana himself.
Wat Umong Suan Putthatham
Tunnels under a 14th-century chedi, a forest full of roosters, and 20 baht to see it all.
Gallery Seescape
A contemporary art gallery on Chiang Mai's creative Nimmanahaeminda Road, showcasing local and regional artists.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
Go at 08:30 or don't bother, the Emerald Buddha's courtyards fill up fast and stay full until closing.
The Grand Palace
Go at 08:30 sharp, cover your shoulders and legs, and give it three hours rather than one.
The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A hand-carved wooden giant still under construction, and watching the carpenters work is half the point.
Wat Arun
Porcelain-covered spires best seen late afternoon, and yes, the midday heat on those grounds is brutal.
Where to stay near CMU Clock Tower
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)