Dokkaw thai traditional massage school
Located on Nhongseejaeng Road in the heart of Chiang Rai, Dokkaw Thai Traditional Massage School is a formally registered educational institution offering hands-on training in traditional Thai massage techniques. What sets it apart from informal courses is its official standing with Thailand's Ministry of Public Health, meaning graduates receive a recognised certificate that carries genuine legal weight — allowing them to practise professionally upon completion. Students consistently highlight the welcoming atmosphere and the quality of instruction. Teachers are described as kind and approachable, making the learning environment comfortable for beginners and those looking to formalise existing skills alike. The school handles the certification process in full, with no additional fees required beyond the course itself — everything is completed under one roof, from training through to official documentation. This is a practical choice for travellers who want more than a one-off massage experience and are interested in learning the craft during their time in Thailand. Those considering enrolment should note that specific course schedules, durations, and pricing are not listed online, so contacting the school directly before arrival is advisable to confirm availability and plan accordingly. It is worth arriving with a clear sense of your goals, whether that is personal interest or professional development, as the certification pathway is geared toward those intending to practise.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Dokkaw thai traditional massage school, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
Confirmed! Dokkaew Traditional Thai Massage School does indeed teach massage, and we guarantee that you will receive a certificate and can register with the Ministry of Public Health.
Dokkaew Traditional Thai Massage School teaches massage and issues certificates; they are genuinely registered with the Ministry.
Studying at this massage school was definitely worth it. I received a massage certificate and was able to register legally.
Tips for Visiting Wellness & Spas
Learn Wat Pho First
Wat Pho in Bangkok is the birthplace of traditional Thai massage education. Their on-site massage pavilion offers excellent treatments from students and graduates at reasonable prices — and you know the technique is authentic.
Communicate Pressure Preferences
Thai massage can be intense. Say 'bao bao' for lighter pressure or 'nак nак' for harder. A good therapist will check in, but don't hesitate to speak up — suffering in silence defeats the purpose.
Book Longer Sessions
A 60-minute massage is fine, but 90 or 120 minutes allows the therapist to work thoroughly. The price difference is often only 200–400 THB for an extra hour — worth it for a deeper, more relaxing experience.
Also Popular in Chiang Rai

Rong Suea Ten Temple
Monumental, modern Buddhist temple distinguished by its vivid blue coloring & elaborate carvings.

Wat Rong Khun
Contemporary Buddhist temple drawing massive crowds with its unique, intricate white exterior.
Golden Triangle
Educational park at the intersection of Myanmar, Laos & Thailand, once known for opium production.
Wat Huay Pla Kang
Temple complex featuring a 9-floor pagoda with 12 surrounding structures & a giant Buddha.
Similar Wellness & Spas Across Thailand
Royal Palm Spa
A highly regarded Ao Nang spa offering traditional Thai massage and wellness treatments daily until 23:00.
Sansabai Massage 2
Highly regarded traditional Thai massage spa in Phuket Town, known for skilled therapists and a spacious, clean setting.
Centara Ao Nang Beach Resort & Spa Krabi
Beachfront resort and spa on Ao Nang Beach, combining direct beach access with wellness treatments and family-friendly accommodation.

반타이마사지 BanThai Masaje
Highly regarded traditional Thai massage studio near Bangkok's old city, praised for skilled therapists and warm hospitality.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – September
Avg. temperature
14°C – 35°C(57°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Mae Fah Luang Airport (CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). Bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. Scenic Golden Triangle road trip from Chiang Mai.
Getting around
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Songthaews
- •Motorbike rental (฿200/day)
- •Car hire (for Golden Triangle & hill tribes)