A haven of peace within the 700 year old city walls of Chiang Mai, in Northern Thailand, Rachamankha is a small, yet spacious gem in the crown of Thai boutique hotels. Designed by one of Thailand's most renowned architects, and with the interior and landscaping designed by an equally renowned designer, the property is more a work of art than a hotel.

With only 18 superior rooms, 4 deluxe rooms, and 2 two-bedroom suites set around two enclosed courtyards privacy and serenity are guaranteed. The colonnaded walkways - reminiscent of Lanna, Northern Thai, temples - and the central sala give the guestroom courtyards an ecclesiastical air: the structure of the sala is in fact a 'wiharn', or prayer hall from an old Lanna period temple that was earmarked for destruction; revived and rebuilt by the architects at Rachamankha as a very relaxing and quiet private lounge area for the guests.

There is a wonderful timeless quality to Rachamankha, as if it has been here for countless centuries but in fact it is a completely new structure which opened for business in 2004. This sense of age was fully intended by the architect who didn't want to create something new but wanted to explore the classic designs of Lanna temples, and ancient Chinese residences, with which he has created wonderfully serene and relaxing spaces that induce calm and quiet. These effects are enhanced by the extensive use of Asian antiques and object d'art.