Why is Nimmanhaemin a Paradise for Digital Nomads?

Nimmanhaemin, one of the most modern areas in Chiang Mai, is often called a sanctuary for digital nomads worldwide. The alleys extending from the central Nimmanhaemin Road each have unique characteristics.

Right in front of my accommodation was One Nimman, a landmark of Nimmanhaemin where I enjoyed weekend markets and various cultural events. This area, filled with modern architecture and trendy shops, was always bustling with young locals and tourists. Soi 9, particularly, is packed with cafes and restaurants, making it an ideal spot to work in a cafe during the day and enjoy local food in the evening.


Cost of Living in Nimmanhaemin and Spending Analysis

This modernity and convenience come at a price. Compared to other areas in Chiang Mai, the overall cost of living here is 15-20% higher. During my 5-day stay, I spent an average of 716 THB per day (~$20.5), excluding accommodation costs.


💆🏻‍♀️ Massage Experiences (Total: 1,000 THB / $28.5)

The largest portion of my expenses during these 5 days went toward massages. My initial visits were to premium massage shops, which were more expensive than expected, but I later switched to more cost-effective options.

  • Sense Garden: Foot massage - 450 THB ($12.8)

  • Giving Tree: Massage package - 550 THB ($15.7) (The service was so excellent I couldn’t help but tip!)

🍜 Food Exploration (Total: 730 THB / $20.9)

The second largest expense was on food. I explored a variety of eateries, ranging from affordable local restaurants to modern Thai establishments. Evenings were often spent at night markets enjoying street food. On average, I spent 50-100 THB per meal.

Most local restaurants operate from early morning (7-8 AM) to late afternoon (3-4 PM), while modern restaurants open around 10 AM and close at 9 PM. Food stalls at night markets typically start serving from 5-6 PM until late at night. It’s important to check operating hours to avoid missing out on popular spots, especially if you prefer late lunches or brunches.

Local Restaurants

  • Hor See Chaai: Stewed beef noodles - 50 THB ($1.4)
    • Features: Authentic local favorite
    • Pros: Affordable, traditional flavors


  • Nong Bee's: Tomato rice, tea leaf salad - 80 THB ($2.3)
    • Features: Thai-Myanmar fusion cuisine
    • Pros: Unique flavors, reasonable prices


  • Sia Fish Noodles: Pork bone soup - 45 THB ($1.3)
    • Features: Traditional Thai noodle soup
    • Pros: Rich broth, low cost


  • Koyi Chicken Rice: Mixed chicken rice - 50 THB ($1.4)
    • Features: Simple Thai lunch option
    • Pros: Quick service, decent portion


  • Gopuek Godum Chiangmai: Toast set - 135 THB ($3.9)
    • Features: Modern Thai brunch
    • Pros: Instagrammable interiors, photo opportunities
    • Cons: Expensive compared to local prices


  • Roast Chicken Wichienbury: Som Tam & chicken set - 155 THB ($4.4)
    • Features: Contemporary Thai restaurant
    • Pros: Clean environment, refined taste
    • Cons: Pricier than local eateries

Night Markets and Street Food

  • One Nimman Night Market: Satay skewers, fried squid eggs - 120 THB ($3.4)
  • Chiang Mai University Night Market: Roti, fries - 75 THB ($2.1)
  • Street food: Rice sausage - 20 THB ($0.6)

☕️ Digital Nomad Life in Cafes (Total: 440 THB / $12.6)

At first, coffee prices seemed steep, but considering that these cafes provided air-conditioned spaces to work for 3-4 hours, it felt like a worthwhile investment. The ability to escape the midday heat and find a productive workspace is essential for digital nomads. Most cafes were open until 6-7 PM, making them great for wrapping up a day’s work.

  • Lots of Taste: Iced Americano - 75 THB ($2.1)
    • Features: Minimalist modern interior, quiet workspace
    • Pros: Strong air conditioning
    • Cons: Limited outlets, small seating area
    • Recommendation: Ideal for staying cool on hot days


  • GRAPH ground: Iced Americano - 150 THB ($4.3)

    • Features: Spacious, Instagram-worthy decor
    • Pros: Fast Wi-Fi, ample outlets, comfortable seating
    • Cons: Among the priciest cafes in Nimmanhaemin


  • 8days a week: Iced Americano - 75 THB ($2.1)
    • Features: Warm wooden interior, bakery-style cafe
    • Pros: Reasonable prices, delicious desserts
    • Cons: Located farther from Nimmanhaemin center


  • Hang & Craft: Iced Americano - 80 THB ($2.3)
    • Features: Roastery cafe, coffee-focused shop
    • Pros: High-quality coffee, professional baristas
    • Recommendation: Perfect for those who love strong coffee


  • Blue Coffee at CMU: Iced Americano - 60 THB ($1.7)
    • Features: Local cafe near a university
    • Pros: Cheapest option, local vibe, great view
    • Cons: Located far from the Nimmanhaemin center
    • Recommendation: A must-visit for unique experiences

🏍 Transportation and Mobility

During my 5 days in Nimmanhaemin, I primarily used Bolt and walked. Total transportation costs were 619 THB (~$17.7), averaging 69 THB (~$2) per trip across 9 rides.

Bolt

Bolt proved to be the most convenient transportation method in Thailand, easily payable via GLN cards without worrying about cash. There are two main options:

  • Bolt Bike
    • Pros: Affordable, fast
    • Cons: Hot weather, safety concerns
    • Cost: Base fare 34-40 THB ($1)
    • Recommendation: Best for short solo trips
  • Bolt Taxi
    • Pros: Comfortable, air-conditioned
    • Cons: More expensive
    • Cost: Base fare 70-80 THB ($2)
    • Recommendation: Ideal for long trips, rainy days, or when carrying luggage

Walking

Nimmanhaemin is surprisingly walkable. A 15-minute walk from One Nimman to Maya Mall is manageable, but it’s advisable to avoid midday walks and carry a sunshade, as the lack of shade can make the heat unbearable.


This wraps up a 5-day spending analysis in Nimmanhaemin, covering massages, food, cafes, and transportation. Tracking every expense helped me better understand local costs. Although cafe and massage costs initially seemed high, they proved worthwhile experiences.

In my next post, I’ll share detailed travel tips for staying in Nimmanhaemin, including accommodation recommendations and suggested itineraries!