In the timeless city of Chiang Mai, a new chapter in luxury travel unfolds with the opening of the InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping. Nestled in the historic heart of this northern Thai haven, the resort stands as a testament to the region’s ability to blend deep-rooted cultural charms with opulent modernity. This illustrious launch is the fruit of a partnership between IHG Hotels & Resorts and the visionary Asset World Corporation, an alliance poised to redefine Thailand’s hospitality landscape.
The transformation of the legendary Imperial Mae Ping Hotel into this new InterContinental oasis has been orchestrated by Thailand’s premier design maestros at PIA Interior. Their artistry weaves a tapestry of the site’s Lanna ancestry with contemporary finesse, creating spaces that resonate with the legacy of a hotel cherished by travellers for over three decades.
Upon arrival, guests are enveloped in the sanctuary’s embrace, welcomed by the resonant sounds of gong chimes that whisper tales of the adjacent Wat Chang Kong and its six-century-old stupa. Here, history breathes through the very walls, and the temple’s lawn comes alive with dance and performances that narrate the region’s lore.
Enveloped by Chiang Mai’s emblematic vistas, the resort is a bastion of tranquillity. Its 240 rooms and suites offer panoramic perspectives of the old town’s tapestry or the mystical Doi Suthep mountain’s silhouette. Landmarks, from the vibrant night bazaar to the ancient Tha-Pae Gate, lie merely a stroll away, inviting guests into a storybook of architectural wonders.
The interior decor of the accommodation is a masterclass in subtle luxury. Here, Lanna-inspired elements – from lacquered artwork to handcrafted local sculptures – converge with minimalist elegance. The Premium Rooms and Suites elevate the experience further with Club InterContinental benefits, from exclusive breakfast settings to evening libations.
Culinary journeys at the hotel honour northern Thailand’s gastronomic heritage. Committing to sustainability, the establishment nurtures its organic garden and collaborates with the Royal Project Foundation. The result is a menu that brings farm-to-table ethos to a luxurious setting.
The Gad Lanna restaurant recreates the ambience of a traditional market, while the Kam Lobby Lounge captures the Yi Peng Lantern Festival’s spirit, offering local tea and after-dark cocktails to the rhythm of live jazz. Not to be missed is Hong’s Chinese Restaurant & Sky Bar, a culinary jewel that not only dazzles with Sichuan and Cantonese offerings but also mesmerizes with views that frame the majesty of Doi Suthep.
Beyond the culinary arts, InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping is a hub for cultural immersion. From local chocolate tasting to the adrenaline rush of white-water rafting, each experience is curated to forge a deeper connection with Lanna traditions. In its pursuit to become the cultural heart of the city, the hotel showcases art and music in collaboration with Chiang Mai University’s Center for the Promotion of Arts and Culture.
The resort’s event venues are a dream for planners, with spaces like the Grand Ballroom and a picturesque central lawn within the temple precincts. For personal wellness, the outdoor pool and a fitness centre await, while The Li Spa offers a sanctuary for the senses with its signature Tok Sen therapy.
In celebration of its inauguration, the resort extends exclusive discovery packages, with special rates starting from THB 6,400+++ per night and additional benefits for IHG One Rewards members.
To immerse oneself in this transformative travel narrative and for reservations, guests are welcome to visit the official website at InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping.
Written by: Supaporn Pholrach (Joom)
