SITUATED IN THE HEART OF THE 700 YEARS OLD ANCIENT CITY OF CHIANG MAI IN NORTHERN THAILAND, RACHAMANKHA IS RENOWNED FOR ITS PRIVATE AND PEACEFUL SETTING. THE HOTEL’S WONDERFUL ARCHITECTURE PAYS HOMAGE TO CHIANG MAI’S GOLDEN AGE, THE LANNA PERIOD, AND OFFERS GUESTS THE OPPORTUNITY TO EXPERIENCE ONE OF THOSE UNIQUE PROPERTIES WITH A DEEP SEATED SENSE OF PLACE IN THE WORLD.
As one of the leading luxury hotels in Thailand, Rachamanka does not blatantly reveal itself to the passerby, instead its presence excites curiosity and a sense of inquisitiveness. Only after passing through the hotel forecourt and the Zen-like simplicity and sophistication of the colonnaded courtyards is the inner world of serenity and contentment revealed. As a member of Secret Retreats, a curated collection of small charming boutique hotels in Asia, Rachamankha was designed by Thai architect Ong-ard Satrabhandhu in the style of residential living which stimulates a genuine feeling for the history and culture of Lanna Chiang Mai. The hotel’s distinctive architectural aesthetic was inspired by the eleventh century B.C. traditional Chinese dwellings, in which Northern Thai architecture has its roots.
The 22 luxurious superior and deluxe bedrooms and three exquisite suites of Rachamankha were conceived according to an oriental concept of simplicity albeit with extraordinary attention to detail. Walls are made with traditional lime plaster over handmade brick, the same technique used in temples since the founding of Chiang Mai in 1296. The common design theme is the uninhibited mix of antiques from different periods and from around the world; from Europe, Africa, China, Burma and Thailand; which are scattered throughout the hotel. All rooms are fully equipped with every amenity for either work or leisure: wireless internet connection, cable TV with large LED screen and CD/DVD player. The owner himself oversees every detail of each lodging and is continually working to improve and develop the furnishing and decoration so regular guests will always find something new each time they visit. The restaurant of Rachamankha boasts elegant interior settings for both Al Fresco areas on the patio and fully indoor spaces. It offers rare tastes of Chiang Mai with arrays of traditional dishes celebrating Lanna, Burmese and Shanb cuisines paired with an extensive selection of quality wines. There is also a variety of events to keep guests entertained during their stay; from a celebration of Lanna heritage to Burmese evenings with marionette performances, guitar recitals, charity concerts and book launches to family weddings.
Rachamankha also owns an old Library that houses over 2,000 books ranging from novels to works on Thai history of art and architecture, design and culture. The library serves as a lounge to relax, chat and take refreshments. An enchanting open-air massage pavilion is also available, overlooking a tranquil 20-meter pool where drinks and light snacks are served pool-side throughout the day.
Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai
50200, Thailand
Tel. +66 53 904 111
www.secret-retreats.com/rachamankha