Genuine, warm and gracious hospitality
The luxurious boutique 30-suite 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai had its official opening March 2012 and is the flagship property for 137 Pillars Hotels & Resorts; a passionately curated luxury boutique brand, offering unique, memorable signature experiences and legendary service in each of its properties.
A rich colonial heritage
The lovingly restored teak homestead, around which the hotel is built, has a rich colonial heritage and originally sat on 137 pillars, hence the name. It dates back to the late 1800’s when it was the northern headquarters of the (British) Borneo Trading Company who worked in forestry. The office was opened by Louis Leonowens whose mother Anna was a British teacher in the Royal Thai Court (made famous in the movie Anna and the King).
The original homestead served as a residence of the of manager the Borneo Trading Company until 1927 and in the post WWII years, was sold to a Scotsman, William Bain who joined the company. William’s son Jack followed in his father’s footsteps and raised his family on the grounds. Homage is paid to these former owners and pioneers throughout the hotel and brand.
A hallmark of 137 Pillars Hotels & Resorts is the team who are dedicated to legendary hospitality and service, as well as a respect for environmental sustainability
“The intimacy of the resort resonates with guests of varying interest and all ages”, says 137 Pillars House, Chiang Mai General Manager, Anne Arrowsmith.
“We cater to guests enjoying a romantic getaway, solo travellers and those on family adventure holidays looking to explore and have fun”.
Proximity and privacy play important roles in attracting guests to stay and enjoy their time at 137 Pillars House, Chiang Mai.
“While many hotels in Chiang Mai are located out of town, 137 Pillars House is located close to town in a leafy residential area which makes it easy for guests who want to explore the city”, says Arrowsmith.
An award-winning stay
Design and style are suitably balanced with comfort at 137 Pillars House, Chiang Mai, which has won numerous prestigious awards; including the highly coveted Travel + Leisure Magazine’s (USA) ‘No 1 spot in The Best Resort Hotels in Southeast Asia’ in both 2016 and 2017.
137 Pillars House, Chiang Mai is just a few minutes’ walk from the historical Wat Ket Temple, Ping River and boutique shopping area. The hotel is also a member of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH).
The stunning grounds are perfect for memorable photos with a 15-metre green vertical wall by the emerald pool and a 124-year-old sacred Banyan Tree that stands majestically in the centre of the property.
Guests can choose from five suite categories including the exquisite Louis Leonowens Pool Suites which are 135 square meters. All suites have king size beds and extend to an airy, vintage tiled veranda overlooking tropical gardens and have cane shades for privacy.
Rattan furniture and free-standing Victorian baths are reminders of days gone by and blend with modern facilities including outdoor garden showers, flat screen televisions and the all-important complimentary Wi-Fi access. Recreation facilities include Nitra Serenity Centre, Gymnasium and Swimming Pool and the exquisite property exudes romance and is perfect for weddings, honeymoons and romantic stays.
Wedding Bells
137 Pillars House has created a range of Wedding Ceremony Packages to suit a range of tastes and budgets, including a choice of a charming traditional Thai, Buddhist, or Western ceremony. For more information contact: [email protected]
Community is key
Arrowsmith says, “The well-being and welfare of our staff is of the utmost importance. In addition to providing our staff with housing and other essentials, we encourage them to learn new skills, improve their lives and actively engage with the local community.
Right: Elephant and K. Lek
The Elephant Nature Park
The management and staff at 137 Pillars House, Chiang Mai are very socially aware and supportive of the local community and nature. Elephants are the national symbol of Thailand and represent strength, loyalty, endurance and intelligence. These magnificent animals have a long history in Thai society and many locals believe that walking under one will bring you luck.
The Elephant Nature Park (ENP) is a rescue and rehabilitation sanctuary in Chiang Mai and was founded by Ms. Sangduen Chailert (K. Lek) in 1996 who still runs it today. K. Lek is affectionately known as the Elephant Whisperer. She has dedicated her life to this important work and has a deep connection with each of the animals under her care.
The partnership between ENP and 137 Pillars Hotels and Resorts was launched on World Elephant Day, 12 August, in 2021. 137 Pillars Hotels & Resorts offers guests at both hotels an option to donate to ENP on check in.
The intimacy of the resort resonates with guests of varying interest and all ages. We cater to guests enjoying a romantic getaway, solo travellers and those on family adventure holidays looking to explore and have fun.
Anne Arrowsmith, General Manager of 137 Pillars House, Chiang Mai
“It seems very appropriate that we should form this long-term partnership with ENP to raise funds for the rescue and protection of these magnificent animals and to help to raise global awareness of the need to do so, as well as to be involved in reforestation of the area”, says Arrowsmith.
Guests can choose from a range of tours and experiences at ENP from a half day to full day.
How to donate — click here.
A Tale of Two Thai Cities
As Bangkok and Chiang Mai continue to attract visitors, guest can enjoy the best of both worlds – the charm of Chiang Mai and the buzz of Bangkok.
The Tale of Two Thai Cities package allows guests to discover the historical allure of Northern Chiang Mai and stay at 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai. For more information contact: [email protected]
137 Pillars House, Chiang Mai
2 Soi 1, Nawatgate Road, Tambon Watgate, Muang Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
+66 (0)53 247 788
[email protected]
Reservations:
+66 (0)53 249 339
[email protected]
137pillarshotels.com/en/chiangmai