6 Rachamanhka 9, T. Phra Singh, A. Muang, Chiangmai 50200
Location:City Center, Rachamankha Road Hotel Category: Travel Reviews:
8.7 (9 reviews)
General Overview
of the Hotel... A haven of peace within the 700
year old city walls of Chiang Mai, in Northern Thailand, Rachamankha
is a small, yet spacious gem in the crown of Thai boutique hotels. Designed
by one of Thailand's most renowned architects, and with the interior
and landscaping designed by an equally renowned designer, the property
is more a work of art than a hotel.
With only 18 superior rooms,
4 deluxe rooms, and 2 two-bedroom suites set around two enclosed courtyards
privacy and serenity are guaranteed. The colonnaded walkways - reminiscent
of Lanna, Northern Thai, temples - and the central sala give the guestroom
courtyards an ecclesiastical air: the structure of the sala is in fact
a 'wiharn', or prayer hall from an old Lanna period temple that was
earmarked for destruction; revived and rebuilt by the architects at
Rachamankha as a very relaxing and quiet private lounge area for the
guests.
There is a wonderful timeless quality to Rachamankha,
as if it has been here for countless centuries but in fact it is a completely
new structure which opened for business in 2004. This sense of age was
fully intended by the architect who didn't want to create something
new but wanted to explore the classic designs of Lanna temples, and
ancient Chinese residences, with which he has created wonderfully serene
and relaxing spaces that induce calm and quiet. These effects are enhanced
by the extensive use of Asian antiques and object d'art.
The experience continues in the restaurant building
which houses, on the second floor, a display of the owner's private
collection of Lanna period antiques: in fact, the property is decorated
throughout with Asian antiques from the owner's collections. The hotel's
heritage is also reflected in the cuisine: it is probably the only restaurant
to feature dishes from Lanna, Tai-Yai, Thai and Myanmar cuisines together
in the same menu, which is designed to inform diners, new to South East
Asian cuisine, on how to order and fully enjoy the regions gastronomy.
Chef's own delicious take on European and fusion dishes is also featured,
all of which are complimented by a comprehensive wine list from both
the old and new worlds.
Guest comfort is of paramount importance
to all at Rachamankha, there has been no compromise in the name of design
with either guest convenience or comfort. There is wireless internet
connection throughout the hotel, accessible in all the guestrooms, by
the pool, in fact anywhere on the property. In keeping with the Asian
theme, traditional Thai massage is available in the massage spa on the
second floor of the pool pavilion - located on the axis of the 20metre
teal-tiled pool. Every room has satellite TV, with a full range of channels,
and a DVD player; there is a library of modern titles for free viewing
by guests available at the front desk. The concierge service is ready
to recommend all that Chiang Mai has to offer from an incredible variety
of excellent restaurants, world class golf, truly unique shopping and
cultural experiences, to jungle adventures: we are sure we can keep
the most discerning of guests entertained in Chiang Mai.
From
the outset, it was the architect's intention to pay homage to Chiang
Mai's Lanna period and take a step towards beautifying the cityscape;
this has lead to a unique and beautiful experience for Rachamankha's
guests. The architectural theme runs like a thread throughout the property,
completing and harmonizing the experience of cuisine, design and hospitality,
leaving the guests with the feeling that they are staying in a wonderful
home not simply a hotel.
ACCOMMODATION
Rachamankha has 25 rooms, from 1 to 26 in keeping with
tradition there is no room number 13. There are 3 types of room; 18
superior rooms, 4 deluxe rooms and 2 suites. No, there's no mistake,
we do have 25 rooms; suite 24 can be converted into 2 rooms, a deluxe
room and a superior room if required.
The two keynotes of Rachamankha
are a more personal, friendly service - we want our guests to really
feel at home - and design. With design in mind, the owner personally
designed the interior of every room, fitting each one with antique furniture
and object d´art from his own private collections to emphasize the personal
touch, and give each room its own character.
Superior Room
Superior Room - There are 18 superior rooms; 6 twin
rooms and 12 double rooms. Each room has been individually decorated
with antiques collected from the 3 regions that have had the greatest
influence in the overall design concept of the hotel; namely Lanna,
The Shan State of Myanmar and China. There is nothing antique about
guest comfort: satellite television, DVD players, air-conditioning and
wireless internet connection as standard. Every room has the comfort
and convenience of the 21st century, combined with the enduring charm
and classic design of yester-year.
Room Specifications:
The superior rooms are 32 Sq.m in size.
The following rooms are
fitted with a double bed: 1, 3, 6, 7, 8, 12, 14, 18, 20, 21, 22, 23.
The following rooms are fitted with twin beds: 2, 4, 5, 9, 17, 19.
The following rooms are fitted with a bath tub: 3, 8, 18, 21.
Deluxe Room
Rachamankha has 4 deluxe rooms, each with its own unique style. In keeping
with the theme of the hotel the rooms are decorated with Asian antiques.
For guest comfort modern amenities abound including, wireless internet
connection, DVD players and satellite television.
Room
Specifications: The deluxe rooms are 40sq.m. in size and include
room numbers 10 and 11 on the ground floor and 15 and 16 on the second
floor.
2 Bedroom Suite
Each of Rachamankha's two bedroom suites comprises of two bedrooms,
with designer en-suite bathrooms, a large lounge and a kitchenette,
yet the similarity ends here.
Suite 26 is located
above the library. It has a large private balcony with views of the
pool and gardens: a very private space, occupying as it does the entirety
of the second floor of the library building. The interior design beautifully
combines congeniality and grandiose: in the judicious use of soft furnishings,
occasional furniture and deeply comfortable lounge chairs one feels
at home; and with the opulent details, the chandeliers, plush drapes
and canopy beds, one feels at home in a very grand home.
Suite 24 is located through a rather unassuming doorway
to the right of the entrance courtyard. The first space one enters is
a delightful courtyard garden: privacy is assured as suite 24 occupies
a corner position and the garden space is walled. On entering the suite
there is a real sense of being in a living space, not the usual sterile
hotel environment, as the object d´art, for the most part, are cherished
pieces from the owner's private collection.
Luxuriously decorated
with rare Asian antiques and all the necessary mod cons; Rachamankha's
two suites tastefully combine the timeless quality of classic design
with modern convenience.
Room Specification:
The Suites are 100 Sq.m. in size.
Suite 24 comprises
of 2 en-suite bedrooms - one with a bath-tub and shower; a spacious
lounge; a kitchenette and a small private courtyard garden. Suite 26 comprises of 2 en-suite bedrooms - one with
a bath-tub and shower; a spacious lounge; a kitchenette and a large
private balcony overlooking the library lawn.
RECREATION, SPA & OUTDOOR FACILITIES
There is also a 20-metre swimming pool, which is lined
with sun beds and bougainvillea flowers. The airy Pool Bar offers snacks
and drinks, while the open-air room above provides a massage service.
The hotel provides high speed internet connection and also wireless
internet connection throughout the hotel which is free to all guests.
The service concept is based on the principle of creating a memorable
experience for all guests, and supports the unforgettable feeling of
peace and homeliness created by the hotel's architecture and design.
Overall, a stay at the Rachamankha is unique.
The Pool and Massage Spa
Located through a passageway off the second guestroom courtyard, Rachamankha's
20m teal-tiled pool is serviced by the two-storey pool pavilion which
houses both the pool bar, and on the second floor, the massage spa.
The pool bar offers a full beverage service and a range of hot and cold
dishes that can be eaten comfortably poolside. The massage service,
performed by well trained and very experienced masseuses, includes the
treatments listed below.
Traditional Thai massage is also available
in the guestrooms. All the massage services are by appointment only.
The Library There is undoubtedly a classic style to Rachamankha, perhaps
nowhere more evident in the hotel than the library. Fitted from floor
to ceiling with polished hardwood and lit by a chandelier the effect
is completed by the addition of crystal glasses and a crystal decanter
of brandy provided free for guests' enjoyment.
The day's papers
are put in the library every morning; books are available for guests'
enjoyment during their stay; and 2 personal computers are set-up with
high-speed internet connection for free use by guests.
Swimming Pool
Sunbathing area
Spa & Massage
The Library
Thai Lanna style dancing
Traditional Thai Puppetry show
Yi Peng Festival
Wat Phra Singh
Suan Dok Gate
RESTAURANT & BAR
The restaurant building houses two dining environments
- the interior air-conditioned dining room and the courtyard; the bar
and the concierge; and on the second floor the gallery and the boutique.
The air-conditioned dining room seats up to 60diners in a formal,
yet relaxed, dining environment. The tables are dressed in crisp, fresh
white linen; the dinner service is blue and white Chinese porcelain;
the walls are decorated with Ming Dynasty porcelain and 19th century
Thai '' Kradat Khoi '' paintings; the waiting staff courteous and attentive
without being obtrusive.
The courtyard, which can comfortably
seat 70diners, is used throughout the year: even under a canopy or sunshade
it is a wonderful space to dine in, or simply enjoy a drink. It is a
popular venue for functions and small wedding parties
The Chinese
porcelain on display in the cabinet is from the Qing Dynasty, 17th to
20th centuries. Ming Dynasty porcelain decorates the wall adjacent to
the stage.
The sideboard, with the orchid display, is Qing Dynasty,
late 19th century, and would have been used as an altar in a family
home, where one would have paid respect to religious icons and ancestors.
What look like large planters would originally have been used in temples,
or large homes, and filled with sand or earth to place burning incense
sticks when making devotions, or praying at altars or shrines.
The square painting on the back wall of the restaurant is 19th century
Thai. The picture has a practical history; it would have been used by
soothsayers for telling fortunes and predicting the future. The twelve
figures along the top of the picture represent the twelve animals of
the Chinese zodiac.
OTHER SERVICES & FACILITIES
The Boutique The Boutique is located on the second floor of the restaurant building.
Unique pieces from local designers and artisans are available along
with antiques and a range of books about the regions peoples, culture
and histories. Open every day from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The Gallery On the
second floor above the restaurant, the gallery is a showcase of the
regions culture and history. A permanent but ever changing display of
antiques, and objects that reflect the regions fast disappearing cultures
and traditions. All the pieces are taken from the owner's private collections;
the aim is to inform guests and visitors alike about the regions rich
artistic and cultural heritage. Open to all from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The hotel is really magnificent, the thoughtful and discreet staff. Everything is looked after. The hotel is a little bit off-centered in the old town but we can move easily with taxis and tuc-tuc.
To recommend for a romantic stay or who do not try to go out to feet.
10/10
3rd August 2010 Elena Germann Hardij
A very nice property with beautifull garden. We had our dinner in the restaurant and we enjoi all (food, wine, service and location). We will be there again
6/10
5th November 2009 Jean-Louis Excler
Perfect design, beautiful, peaceful and quiet place where you are treated as a member of the family. The service is also very efficient, discrete, and refined. A dream place for a stylish and refined break. Excellent breakfast
10/10
7th May 2008 Peter Promnitz
Great boutique hotel, a little hard to find down a small backstreet but worth the effort. Staff were great, food was great (but at the pricey end by Chiangmai standards)and we had a very memorable 5 days stay. Would stay there again if we visit Chiangmai again.
17th February 2008 Spinazze` Giorgio
Rachamankha is not only a beautiful Hotel giving a great service service. It s more.
It s the perfect ambiance for any designer lover, is the feeling of the Chiang Mai and Thai Lanna culture; unique experience for any European tourist.
It s the signature of a great Thai architect.
Try it in your life in the sunny season.
16th February 2008 Ramona Popa
Beautiful architecture, centrally located,very peaceful, private and clean hotel. The staff were very friendly and helpful, their breackfast is delicious and healthy.
15th February 2007 Mr/Mrs David Arts
A beautiful site and a relaxing and peaceful experience. Well appointed two bedroom suite,beautiful grounds, main areas and swimming pool. Staff exceptional. Breakfast and dinners upscale and delicious. Hidden in the old walled city. Our favorite hotel in Thailand.
1st February 2007 Phyllis Gillman Ph.D.
Fabulous hotel---beautiful and serene. The restaurant is excellent. Only negative is that the shower doesn t have enough force and the water isn t hot enough.
4th January 2007 Melissa B
Fantastic hotel! We had the 2 bedroom suite for 4 family members and it was like our private villa with separate entrances from the rest of the hotel. The hotel itself is just beautiful and serene. The staff was attentive, polite but not overbearing. The water pressure is not the best but that is a minor issue. I would most definitely stay at the Rachamankha again - actually I d like to move in to the 2 bedroom suite... would just have to enlarge the kitchen a bit!
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