La Luna Gallery
Tucked into Chiang Mai's characterful Wat Ket neighbourhood on Thanon Charoenrajd, this contemporary art gallery has earned a devoted following among both locals and returning travellers. It focuses on Thai and Southeast Asian artists, presenting paintings, sculptures, and mixed media works in a beautiful building that is itself part of the appeal. Visitors regularly return — some on their seventh visit — drawn by the quality and originality of work that is difficult to find elsewhere in the region. The atmosphere is intimate and unhurried, welcoming casual browsers and serious collectors in equal measure. The gallery offers a thoughtful counterpoint to Chiang Mai's temple circuit, and its position in the Wat Ket district makes it easy to combine with other cultural stops in the neighbourhood. The building next door is also worth exploring, with separate exhibitions that have included displays on traditional lacquer work. Good to know: Specific opening hours are not publicly listed, so it is advisable to contact the gallery directly before making a dedicated trip. The Wat Ket area is accessible by local transport, including songthaew and tuk-tuk from the Old City. Visiting in the morning or early afternoon typically offers a quieter experience and better light for appreciating the artwork on display.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After La Luna Gallery, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
🌕 La Luna Gallery – Chiang Mai’s Quiet Beacon of Contemporary Art La Luna Gallery is more than just a white-walled art space—it's a thoughtful sanctuary where contemporary Thai and international voices converge. Located just across the river from Chiang Mai’s Old City, this gallery has quietly nurtured a space for meaningful exhibitions, social reflection, and community-based artistic dialogue. The team is warm, professional, and genuinely supportive of artists. Exhibitions here often go beyond visual aesthetics—they invite you to think, feel, and question the world around you. If you're visiting Chiang Mai and are looking for something deeper than typical sightseeing, I highly recommend stopping by La Luna. Whether you're an artist, collector, or simply curious, you’ll find something here that stays with you long after you’ve left. 🖼 Thoughtful curation 🌿 Peaceful atmosphere 📍 Easy to reach from the city center
One of small art gallery in town. Displayed not only arts from thai artist but also another country (most of them are from Asia/ASEAN if i am not mistaken). A good place to shelter from the sun and enjoy the exhibition of taking photos
Great contemporary art gallery showcasing SE Asian talent. Some really good work on display when I was there. Also check out the building next door which is currently showing a history on lacquer work, really interesting.
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.
Also Popular in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Bustling night market featuring street food vendors & local crafts, plus souvenirs.
Central Chiangmai
Chiang Mai's largest modern mall, with two food halls, designer boutiques, and a grocery store along the superhighway.
MAYA Lifestyle Shopping Center
Sprawling, upscale mall features dozens of boutiques, gift shops, eateries & a cinema.
Central Chiangmai Airport
Chiang Mai's largest shopping complex, conveniently located beside the international airport.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
Thailand's most sacred Buddhist temple, home to the Emerald Buddha
The Grand Palace
Built in 1782, this ornate royal palace complex now houses a museum & is open to visitors.
Pattaya Walking Street
Colorful red-light area, closed to vehicles nightly & lined with bars, nightclubs, eateries & neon.
Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan
Monumental Buddhist temple right on the river, with an iconic, ornately tiled central prang (spire).
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)