Best Bookstores & Libraries in Chiang Mai, Thailand
1. Boek Haeng Panna Bookstore
A cozy, two-story bookstore offering a wide selection of books in English and Thai. It also serves coffee and desserts.
- Unique Selection: Offers both local Thai literature and international titles
- Cafe Inside: Provides a comfortable space to relax and read over coffee or dessert
- Central Location: Conveniently located in the Nimmanhaemin area, close to other attractions
2. The Riverside Book Xchange
A community book exchange on the banks of the Ping River, where you can trade or buy used books.
- Community Exchange: Encourages a sharing culture by trading or buying used books
- By the River: Located on the peaceful banks of the Ping River, perfect for a relaxing read
- Affordable Prices: Prices are often very reasonable, making it accessible to many travelers
3. Chiang Mai University Library
A vast academic library open to the public, featuring a large collection of books and resources.
- Academic Resources: Provides access to scholarly journals, databases, and other academic resources
- Spacious Environment: Offers a quiet, spacious environment for focused study or research
- Open to Public: Accessible to the public, making it a valuable resource for travelers
4. Baan Kang Wat Community Library
A library and learning center in a local community, offering books, workshops, and cultural experiences.
- Cultural Experiences: Provides opportunities to learn about Thai culture and traditions
- Community Engagement: Supports local education and development through workshops and classes
- Unusual Setting: Located in a traditional Thai village, offering a unique experience
5. Tha Phae Gate Bookstore
A bookstore located at the Tha Phae Gate, offering books in English, as well as local handicrafts.
- Convenient Location: Located near popular tourist attractions like the Night Bazaar
- Handicrafts Available: Sells local handicrafts, making it a one-stop shop for souvenirs
- English Books: Offers a selection of English books, catering to travelers
6. The Book Market at Warorot Market
A bustling market offering a wide variety of used and new books at affordable prices.
- Affordable Prices: Offers a wide range of affordable books
- Bustling Atmosphere: Experience the vibrant, traditional Thai market atmosphere
- Used Books Section: Features a section for used books, offering unique finds
7. Bridge of Love Library
A library located on the Ping River bridge, offering a peaceful reading space with a river view.
- River View: Offers a serene, riverside reading experience
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Provides a quiet, peaceful environment for reading and relaxation
- Unique Location: Located on a bridge over the Ping River, offering a distinct experience
8. Chiang Mai International School Library
A library open to the public, featuring a large collection of books and resources for all ages.
- Wide Selection: Offers books for children, teenagers, and adults
- Modern Facilities: Features modern facilities and comfortable seating areas
- Open to Public: Accessible to the public, making it a valuable resource for travelers
9. Baan Bae Library
A library and learning center in a local community, offering books, workshops, and cultural experiences.
- Cultural Experiences: Provides opportunities to learn about Thai culture and traditions
- Community Engagement: Supports local education and development through workshops and classes
- Unusual Setting: Located in a traditional Thai village, offering a unique experience
10. The Book Spot
A bookstore specializing in English books and magazines, with a cozy cafe attached.
- English Books: Specializes in English books and magazines
- Cafe Inside: Provides a comfortable space to relax and read over coffee or dessert
- Central Location: Conveniently located in the Nimmanhaemin area, close to other attractions
11. Nimman Library
A modern library offering a wide selection of books, magazines, and multimedia resources.
- Modern Facilities: Features modern facilities and comfortable seating areas
- Wide Selection: Offers a wide range of books, magazines, and multimedia resources
- Central Location: Conveniently located in the Nimmanhaemin area, close to other attractions
12. Chiang Mai Art and Culture Center
A cultural center offering a library, art exhibitions, and workshops.
- Art Exhibitions: Features regular art exhibitions showcasing local artists
- Workshops: Offers workshops teaching traditional Thai arts and crafts
- Library Access: Provides access to a library featuring books on art and culture
13. The Old Library Cafe
A charming cafe housed in a former library, offering books, coffee, and baked goods.
- Charming Atmosphere: Features a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of a traditional library
- Books Available: Offers books for browsing and purchase
- Coffee and Baked Goods: Serves coffee, tea, and baked goods to enjoy while reading
14. The Book Room Cafe
A cafe offering a selection of books, board games, and a cozy atmosphere.
- Board Games Available: Offers a variety of board games to play while enjoying coffee or tea
- Books Available: Provides books for browsing and purchase
- Cozy Atmosphere: Features a cozy, intimate atmosphere perfect for reading and relaxing
15. The Lost House Bookstore
A bookstore and cafe housed in an old Thai-style house, offering a unique reading experience.
- Unique Setting: Located in an old Thai-style house, offering a distinct reading experience
- Cafe Inside: Provides a comfortable space to relax and read over coffee or dessert
- English Books: Offers a selection of English books, catering to travelers