Recommendations for finding affordable paradise in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Panviman Resort – Chiang Mai Spa, provides luxury at an affordable price so you can have your own paradise moment hidden away in the hills of Mae Rim.
Continue on reading as Chantell tells her story of Panviman Resort.
This post contains affiliate links.
Panviman Resort in Chiang Mai, Thailand
We all deserve a little luxury every once in a while.
Our modern-day lives are packed full with work demands, family responsibilities, household duties, and the stress of a never ending to-do list. So taking a break can be enormously beneficial to our mental and physical well-being.
After months of non-stop work and study, I was in desperate need of some rest and relaxation. And I found my paradise moment at Panviman Chiang Mai Spa Resort in northern Thailand.
Panviman Resort provides a luxury holiday from start to finish, at a price that is more affordable than you would think. This was our experience at Panviman, as well as how you can have your own paradise moment.
Why choose a spa resort in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is an excellent option for a luxury escape because it is easily accessible and provides ample spa opportunities at a lower price than you would find in the US, UK, or Australia.
Referred to as the “Rose of the North”, Chiang Mai feels worlds away from the chaos of everyday living. There is a slower pace in northern Thailand with its small cities, hundreds of Buddhist temples, and green mountains.
Panviman Chiang Mai Spa Resort
I was recommended Panviman Chiang Mai Spa Resort by another blogger and after seeing their website – I didn’t need to look any further. If you are searching for the best hotels in Chiang Mai, you will find Panviman Resort highly rated by guests with 8.6 out of 10 on Booking. Panviman also has an impressive collection of awards including the World Luxury Hotel Awards – Winner 2016, World Luxury Restaurant Awards – Winner 2016, and Thailand Tourism Awards 2015.
The resort is tucked away in the hills, surrounded by nature. Panviman offers a twice-daily shuttle service to and from the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, which we took advantage of when departing. You can also use this service to go into town and enjoy the market for a few hours but I much preferred to stay at the resort for my entire stay.
Checking into Panviman
The check-in process at Panviman was very smooth. After arriving in our Grab car, we were met at the entrance with a golf cart to take us and our luggage to the hotel lobby. The main building also houses the souvenir store, cafe, and Panorama Restaurant with valley views. On the wide balcony of the lobby, you will find comfortable chairs and lounges to relax with your coffee.
We were welcomed with tea and a towel to refresh ourselves after the journey. There is also a table with complimentary juice and snacks. The organic jam is divine (personally I liked the mango but Max preferred the pineapple – tell me which was your favorite in the comments).
After checking in and being told about the many facilities of Panviman, we were taken to our room by golf cart. The rooms are separated from the main building to provide privacy for your luxury escape. To get around the resort, you can either walk or be driven in a golf cart.
Jacuzzi Villa
Panviman Resort has 11 Jacuzzi Villas, one of which Max and I had the pleasure of staying in. Other accommodation includes a variety of rooms, suites, and villas with four that have private pools. The Jacuzzi Villas offer complete privacy and are separated from the other villas.
Our spacious villa included a king bed, daybed, high-speed WiFi, two desks for working, bathrobes and slippers, bathroom amenities, mini bar, complimentary tea and coffee facilities. The main room and bathroom have tall glass panels so you can look out to the beautiful scenery outside or use the blinds for less light.
Upon arrival, we also found a welcome fruit basket and a handy phone with free phone calls and data to use. It seemed as if Panviman resort had thought of everything guests could need during their stay.
The large balcony has a small table to relax with a book or catch up on emails while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. And of course, the star of the villa – the jacuzzi! Great to be enjoyed at night or by day. There are curtains along the side of the balcony that you can close for added privacy as well as a mosquito net, although we never had any problems during our stay.
Considering the level of luxury and amount of inclusions, the Jacuzzi Villa at Panviman is great value. When I searched for a villa with a jacuzzi in Australia, the accommodation I found was double the price or more. This gives you an opportunity to treat yourself to an experience that you might not have been able to afford in Western countries.
Buffet Breakfast
Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day and Panviman delivered with their buffet breakfast each morning. After waking up in our soft king bed, Max and I would take a gentle morning stroll down to the restaurant in the main building. The friendly staff would show us to a table and take our coffee order. You can have an espresso or normal black coffee depending on your preference – and as many as you like to kickstart your day (sometimes I am a three-cups a day kind of woman).
The food options are plentiful with trays of steaming hot dishes including traditional Thai and western-style foods along one side. Adjacent to the hot food is cold cuts, cheese, salad, and fruits. There is also an egg station where you can order eggs any way you like. Don’t forget your crispy bacon.
For those with a sweet-tooth, there are plenty of pastries next to the fresh bread. Personally, I love slow mornings with long breakfasts, and here at Panviman, it was always a delight.
Panviman Spa Chiang Mai
Whether you are staying at Panviman Chiang Mai Spa Resort or just visiting Chiang Mai, you can enjoy “absolute heaven” at the Panviman Spa. Max and I were treated to a 60-minute Thai massage and as someone who has had a lot of spa treatments, I can testify that it is a premium experience.
I felt spoiled from the moment of arrival with delicious tea and a tour of the facilities. The Spa manager gave us a short questionnaire about any pain points, injuries, and our preferences. For me, this was great as I like a firm massage with lots of attention on my shoulders, neck, and back. After, we were introduced to our masseuses and led to a private area to change.
The massage rooms are separated by walls on either side but open at the front where it looks out onto a peaceful lake. While having your massage, you can hear that relaxing sound of water with soft music playing in the background. One of my biggest peeves about spas is that they never get the sounds right – always too loud, bad music, or someone talking. When you are having a massage, your eyes are closed so your other sense is heightened and I felt like Panviman Spa provided the perfect environment for a wonderful experience.
Panviman pool
Panviman Resort has a two-story pool complex with gentle waterfalls and lush green vegetation around. With the multiple pools, we were able to have one all to ourselves for a few hours. When you arrive at the pool, a staff member will welcome you with soft green pool towels. Here you can also order poolside service, so all you need to do is relax and enjoy the day.
Hotel facilities
In addition to the fabulous pools at Panviman, there is a multitude of activities to keep you entertained. For fitness lovers, there is a gym right next to the pool area with complimentary water and fresh towels. A jogging track runs past the fitness center, aptly named Health Street, with outdoor workout equipment. To get your blood pumping, there is a heavy bag in the activity area to be used for Muay Thai or Boxing practice.
The activity area also has games such as pool, archery, and a giant chess set. For those who prefer more gentle activities, you can enjoy the meditation cave and yoga studio.
Panorama Restaurant
One of the great things about Panviman is the incredible views you have from different points around the hotel and the Panorama Restaurant is no exception. Open from 10 am to 10 pm, you can come for lunch, dinner, or even just drinks and snacks.
Max and I enjoyed two wonderful and romantic meals at the Panorama Restaurant, first sitting outside on the terrace and the second night inside. The dining staff was wonderful and attentive, without ever being intrusive. I loved the candlelit atmosphere and quiet ambiance.
The menu includes traditional Thai food, as well as Western choices. On both nights, we asked for recommendations and were rewarded with delicious dishes. The first night included Chicken Satay, Northern-Style Noddle Curry, Fried Pork Spareribs in Three Flavors, and Tiramisu for dessert. For the second meal was amazing as well. We chose Spring Rolls with Apricot Sauce, Mussaman Curry, Sea Bass, and the Creme Brulee (as recommended by the manager) with the house red wine.
Max and I both enjoy Thai food. But I have to say it is even better to have in a fine dining setting with panoramic views and flawless service.
How to get to Chiang Mai
Flying to Chiang Mai from Bangkok is generally really easy and affordable. A flight from Don Mueang (DMK) airport in Bangkok to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) takes just over an hour and can be as low as $24 USD one way. There are also some direct flights from major airports in Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Myanmar, and China.
Otherwise, if you are coming from Bangkok and you prefer not to fly then you can take either a bus or train. Max and I took the overnight train because I get motion sickness on buses. It cost us around $8 USD each but was definitely not a luxury experience.
Where is Panviman Resort Chiang Mai?
Location: 197/2 Moo 1, Pong–yeang, Maerim, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Whether you are planning a special celebration, a romantic getaway, or a relaxing retreat, Panviman Resort provides the perfect setting to indulge. See current availability and prices for Panviman Chiang Mai Spa Resort.
Panviman Koh Phangan
Go from a tranquil retreat in the hills to an incredible island-getaway at Panviman Resort Koh Phangan.
Famed for its Full Moon Parties. Koh Phangan has a softer side where you can unwind. Sit by the pool, beach, bar, villa deck, or in the spa at Panviman. This five-star resort with rave reviews still provides the “best value for money” on the island. And for the ultimate indulgence, upgrade to a speedboat pickup, jacuzzi or pool villa.
Explore and check out some of these great things to do in Chiang Mai.
AuthenticTravels says
Oh my God, that’s so perfect. I want to go to Thailand next year and Chiang Mai would be the first stop in this country. Panviman Chiang Mai Spa Resort looks fantastic. But I’d have one question that bothers me: do you know if I can buy in advance a bus ticket (overland) from Myanmar to Chiang Mai? Or you flew only from Bangkok?
Chantell Collins says
Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to visit Myanmar on this trip but under the section of “How to get to Chiang Mai” there is a search widget for 12Go Asia. You can use this to search for transportation from Myanmar to Chiang Mai and see if there are options to book in advance. Hope that helps 🙂
Vibeke J says
wow, Panvimanlooks amazing, like paradise ? I havent been to Chiang Mai yet but would love to go. Panviman looks huge. I would definitley enjoy the spa and the gym. This resort really has everything. ?
Chantell Collins says
Hey Vibeke, the property is definitely huge and has enough to keep you entertained. I love that they have the option to take the shuttle to the night market, but I wanted to spend alllllll my time at Panviman. Such bliss 🙂
Claire Summers says
OK so I’m totally in love with Latin America and I was thinking of curbing my plans to head back to SE Asia next year…Then I saw this post and remembered how amazing it is. I’m more of a budget gal. But every now and then I like to splash out on a bit of Luxury. You just can’t get anything like this in Colombia. I think I need to rethink again haha!
Chantell Collins says
Thanks Claire! I am planning Sth Am for the end of the year and early 2019 so I’ll be looking for tips from you but yes, SE Asia is a great backpacking destination and Panviman was the perfect indulgence. I loved that it is affordable in comparison to similar spa resorts in Australia, the US or UK. Really accessible 🙂
Candy says
What an amazing place to unwind and relax! I love that they provided a free phone with free calls. Those peacocks are gorgeous too! Were they a part of the resort? Of were they wild?
Chantell Collins says
Hey Candy, I am not sure if the peacocks were an official part of the resort or were just there to enjoy it, like we were. It was definitely an amazing sight to watch the male try to impress the female with his feathers
Stella Jane says
This seems like an amazing resort! I’ve never really thought about going to Chiang Mai, and I had no idea that there was so much gorgeous nature in the area. I’m sure I’d like both the mango and the pineapple jam. But what is noddle curry?
Chantell Collins says
Thanks Stella! Noodle Curry is an incredible comnbination of Thai curry with noodles. So delicious – I hope you visit Panviman and try it soon 🙂
Emily says
What a lovely spot! I lived in CM for 6 months and I can’t believe I missed this 🙁 It’s one of those places I will always return to, so I’ll put this on the list for next time!
Chantell Collins says
That’s great Emily! We spent over 2 weeks in CM in total and generally found it super relaxing. Panviman takes relaxation to another level 🙂
masabutara says
Oh my god! What a lovely place to stay. Yes please for a room with jacuzzi. ? Chang Mai is already on my wish list so this is just moving it higher. ?
Chantell Collins says
I think everyone should have a Jacuzzi Villa at least once in their life 😀
Anna says
Can’t believe I still haven’t made it to Chiang Mai even though I live in Thailand. We have a Panviman on Koh Phangan, though. Should probably visit to see if its as good =)
Chantell Collins says
Hi Anna, yes please do and report back ;). Actually I saw they have one there too and I would definitely check it out if I were heading down south.
Louise says
Wow – this looks like such a heavenly place to stay! The buffet looks marvelous as well, and that pool looks so peaceful and relaxing. Thanks for sharing all about this beautiful resort!
Chantell Collins says
Long breakfasts followed by laying by the pool is pretty much a perfect day at Panviman 😉
Lizziesrestlessfeet says
I love Chiangmai, and I love a slice of affordable luxury! Will definitely try and check this place out if I’m ever in the area again! Thanks for the tip!
Chantell Collins says
Thanks Lizzie! Panviman was the highlight of our time in Chiang Mai for sure 🙂
Jacqui L says
Chiang Mai was absolutely incredible, can’t wait to go there for a holiday instead of work
Chantell Collins says
As someone who works online, I totally get that. Panviman was my vacation and I loved every moment 🙂