137 Pillars House offers much more than just accommodation: it invites you on a journey through time. Whether you’re looking for cultural discoveries, refined gastronomy or absolute relaxation, this hotel with its old-fashioned charm promises an unforgettable experience.
When you stay here, you’re immersed in a unique atmosphere where every detail, from decoration to service, celebrates history and the art of living. An ideal retreat for exploring Chiang Mai and its surrounding wonders.
A History Inscribed in Wood and Stone
In the heart of Chiang Mai, 137 Pillars House is much more than a hotel: it’s a living page in Thailand’s colonial history. Built in the 1880s, this teak-wood building was erected as the headquarters of the
The history of the place is intimately linked to that of Louis Thomas Leonowens, son of Anna Leonowens, the famous Siamese court housekeeper whose story inspired the novel Anna and the King of Siam. Louis Leonowens, who became an influential merchant and diplomat, resided in this iconic house while overseeing the company’s activities. His presence lends a legendary aura to 137 Pillars House, and a suite proudly bears his name, honoring his legacy.
In its heyday, the house embodied the refinement of 19thᵉ century colonial architecture, subtly blending European and Thai influences. Over the decades, however, it fell into disuse, threatening to disappear under the wear and tear of time. In the early 2000s, an ambitious restoration project was launched.
Local craftsmen have meticulously restored every element, from the 137 teak pillars and period floors to the detailed moldings and carved motifs, all with an eye to preserving the historic authenticity of the building.
While the main house has retained its natural color, a symbol of its heritage, other sections have been refreshed with bright white hues, accentuating the balance between tradition and modernity.
Rooms designed for privacy and comfort
With just 30 rooms, 137 Pillars House offers a rare exclusivity, conducive to rest and tranquility. Here, every space has been designed to tell a story, while providing ultimate comfort. The rooms, ranging in size from 70 to 135 m², are true refuges, where luxury meets sobriety.
Noble materials are omnipresent: solid teak wood, carefully polished, harmonizes with linen drapes and period tiles. Every detail, from handcrafted furniture to carefully selected decorative objects, reflects the essence of colonial style, enhanced by contemporary touches.
Bathrooms, veritable private sanctuaries, seduce with their timeless elegance. Freestanding bathtubs, often accompanied by outdoor showers, allow you to relax in enchanting surroundings. In these spaces bathed in natural light, everything has been designed to offer a unique sensory experience, where every moment becomes one of pure delight.
Refined and Authentic Gastronomy
The cuisine offered by 137 Pillars House is a culinary journey in its own right, highlighting local flavors and traditions while embracing modern techniques. The hotel’s two restaurants, housed in the original property, are distinguished by their atmosphere and tasty menus.
- Palette, intimate and sophisticated, is an ode to local and international gastronomy. Focusing on concepts such as “farm to plate”, it celebrates local and seasonal produce, transformed into artistic creations by the chefs.
- The Dining Room, meanwhile, offers a more relaxed atmosphere, ideal for savoring refined Asian specialties indoors or under the stars in the enchanting garden setting.
Jack Bain’s Bar, named after an iconic Scottish resident, evokes the hushed atmosphere of British clubs. With its rich menu of rare whiskies, leather armchairs and warm wood panelling, it invites you to enjoy moments of relaxation imbued with elegance and conviviality.
Absolute relaxation and well-being
For those in search of serenity, 137 Pillars House offers a unique interlude of well-being. Its spa, inspired by the Seven Pillars of Well-Being, combines ancestral Thai traditions with modern therapies, offering tailor-made treatments to revitalize the body and soothe the mind. Essential oil massages, herbal wraps and soothing rituals are just some of the experiences on offer to reconnect with yourself.
The infinity pool, the centerpiece of the outdoor area, nestles in a green setting. Backed by a spectacular plant wall, it invites you to relax in absolute comfort, while offering a breathtaking view of the hotel’s lush gardens.
Whether you’re looking to recharge your batteries or simply savor the moment, 137 Pillars House transforms every stay into an unforgettable experience, where history, elegance and well-being come together in harmony.
An Unmissable Address in Chiang Mai
Nestled in the peaceful Wat Gate district, just a few steps from the Ping River and the historic center, 137 Pillars House is ideally located for exploring the treasures of Chiang Mai, nicknamed the “Rose of the North”. This city enchants with its perfect balance of tradition and modernity, centuries-old temples, bustling markets and breathtaking natural scenery.
After a day’s exploration – whether strolling the narrow streets of the old town, visiting iconic temples such as Wat Phra Singh or Doi Suthep, or venturing into the surrounding mountains – finding the serenity and charm of 137 Pillars House is a reward in itself.
Heir to a rich history and a haven of peace and refinement, this boutique hotel offers much more than just a stay: it’s an immersion in the soul of Chiang Mai, a blend of culture, elegance and escape.
Thinking of staying at 137 Pillars House on your next trip to Chiang Mai? Contact us today to receive a tailor-made offer and discover this exceptional place.
