How long does it take to walk from Nimman to Wat Umong?

The walk from the heart of Nimman to Wat Umong takes approximately 45-60 minutes (about 3.5 kilometers). Many people choose to take a short songthaew ride for the section between the CMU Art Center and the temple to save energy.

Is Wat Umong worth visiting?

Yes, it is one of the most unique temples in Thailand due to its underground tunnels and forest setting. Unlike the glittering temples of the Old City, Wat Umong offers a more rustic, ancient, and meditative atmosphere.

Can I visit Angkaew Reservoir at night?

The reservoir is best visited during sunset and early evening when the lights of the university come on. While accessible later, the best views and the safest walking conditions are before total darkness.

Is this walking route suitable for families?

Yes, kids usually enjoy exploring the tunnels at Wat Umong and the open spaces at Angkaew Reservoir. However, be mindful of the walking distance; bringing a stroller is possible but difficult inside the temple tunnels.

What should I wear for this walk?

Since the route includes Wat Umong, you must wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Light, breathable fabrics are recommended as the walk between Nimman and the university can be quite warm.

Are there places to eat along the way?

Absolutely. Nimman is the culinary capital of Chiang Mai with hundreds of cafes. As you reach the university area, you will find many budget-friendly street food stalls and student-focused eateries.

What is the best time of day to start this walk?

Starting around 2:00 PM is ideal. This allows you to browse the shops and galleries during their opening hours and reach the reservoir just in time for the 5:30 PM - 6:00 PM sunset.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Chiang Mai is often celebrated for its ancient temples and night markets, but there is a parallel world of contemporary thought and serene landscapes waiting to be discovered. This self-guided walk invites you into the intellectual heart of the city, bridging the gap between the trendy Nimmanhaemin district and the sprawling, green grounds of Chiang Mai University. You will begin amidst the modern, design-focused energy of Nimman, where independent bookshops and quiet libraries serve as sanctuaries for the city's creative class. This neighborhood stroll captures the essence of 'New Chiang Mai'—a place where traditional Thai values meet global aesthetic sensibilities. As you move away from the boutique-lined streets, the route transitions into a more contemplative experience. You will explore the historic CMU Art Center, a hub for local expression, before heading toward the mystical forest surroundings of Wat Umong. This walking route offers a unique contrast: the sharp, minimalist lines of urban development followed by the moss-covered, subterranean tunnels of a 700-year-old temple. The journey concludes at the Angkaew Reservoir, a favorite local spot where students and residents gather to watch the sunset reflect off the water against the backdrop of Doi Suthep mountain. Whether you are a solo traveler seeking quiet reflection or a culture enthusiast looking for the city's literary pulse, this walking tour Chiang Mai provides a comprehensive look at the region's modern and spiritual identity. Discover at your own pace why this area is considered the intellectual and creative engine of Northern Thailand, far beyond the typical tourist trails.

Highlights

Discover rare design books and local literature at The Booksmith

Explore the unique 13th-century underground tunnels of Wat Umong

View contemporary Thai art at the Chiang Mai University Art Center

Experience the tranquil, student-favorite sunset spot at Angkaew Reservoir

Walk through the stylish architecture of One Nimman

Enjoy the 'talking trees' and forest wisdom of the Suan Putthatham

Tour Stops (6)

Minimal Bar

Start exploring with Zigway at Minimal Bar, a venue that perfectly encapsulates the Nimmanhaemin spirit. While it comes alive at night with indie music and local crowds, during the day, this corner serves as a landmark for the district's creative layout. Nimman is known as the 'coolest' neighborhood in Chiang Mai, but its foundation is built on the artists and thinkers who moved here decades ago. Notice the blend of low-rise architecture and the proximity to the university, which keeps the area's energy youthful and experimental. This is the perfect spot to orient yourself before diving into the literary and artistic hubs that lie just a few blocks away.

The Library at One Nimman

Ascend to the third floor of One Nimman to find a space dedicated to quiet contemplation. One Nimman itself is a masterpiece of modern brick architecture, inspired by European plazas but rooted in Thai craftsmanship. The Library here isn't just a place for books; it's a testament to the neighborhood's commitment to public intellectual spaces. As you walk through the corridors, you'll see digital nomads and local students side-by-side. The design reflects a sophisticated, modern Thai aesthetic that values both communal gathering and individual study, providing a peaceful vantage point over the bustling streets of Nimman below.

The Booksmith Bookshop

Step into The Booksmith, a cornerstone of Chiang Mai's literary scene. This independent bookshop is famous for its curated selection of design, art, and photography books, as well as English-language literature that is hard to find elsewhere in Thailand. The shop's minimalist interior and passionate staff make it a haven for bibliophiles. It represents the 'slow life' movement that Chiang Mai is famous for—encouraging visitors to browse, touch the paper, and engage with physical media in an increasingly digital world. Take a moment to see if there are any locally produced zines or art books that capture the current zeitgeist of Northern Thai youth culture.

Chiang Mai University Art Center

Moving south toward the university campus, you reach the CMU Art Center. This is the primary venue for the University's Faculty of Fine Arts and hosts a rotating schedule of exhibitions featuring everything from traditional silk weaving to provocative modern installations. The large, airy galleries often showcase the graduation projects of Thailand's next generation of master artists. By visiting this space, you are witnessing the raw creative output of the city. The themes often tackle environmental issues, political identity, and the tension between tradition and modernity, offering a deep look into the minds of the people who call this city home.

Wat Umong Suan Putthatham

Transition from the academic to the spiritual at Wat Umong, the 'Tunnel Temple.' Located in a dense forest at the foot of the mountain, this 700-year-old complex is unlike any other temple in the city. Instead of a golden spire, the highlight here is a series of ancient brick tunnels built for a monk who preferred the solitude of the earth. Inside, you can still see traces of 13th-century murals. Outside, the 'talking trees' bear signs with Buddhist proverbs in both Thai and English. The atmosphere is heavy with the scent of damp earth and incense, offering a profound sense of peace that has attracted meditators for centuries.

Angkaew Reservoir

End your self-guided adventure at Angkaew Reservoir, located within the main Chiang Mai University campus. This man-made lake serves a practical purpose for the university, but for the community, it is a scenic escape. The paved path around the water is a popular spot for jogging, dog-walking, and sunset watching. As the sky turns shades of purple and orange behind Doi Suthep, you'll see hundreds of students gathering on the grassy banks. It is the perfect place to reflect on your journey from the busy bookshops of Nimman to the quiet tunnels of the forest, ending in the natural beauty of the CMU grounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

This 'Intellectual Nimman' route is excellent as it combines the urban greenery of the university campus with the deep forest environment of Wat Umong. You get to experience both manicured lakeside views and wilder woodland settings.