Ang Kaew Reservoir (CMU) Chiang Mai
A serene reservoir within Chiang Mai University, offering a peaceful escape for walks, jogs, and enjoying nature's beauty.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
Ang Kaew Reservoir (CMU) Chiang Mai
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene reservoir within Chiang Mai University, offering a peaceful escape for walks, jogs, and enjoying nature's beauty.
"The best place to walk and enjoy nature, especially during golden hours and sunset."
🌅 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during golden hour for stunning photos and a peaceful atmosphere.
👟 Perfect for a Run
Ideal spot for jogging or walking; explore the CMU campus for more routes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunset Serenity
Ang Kaew Reservoir
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky over the tranquil water, creating a magical and peaceful ambiance.

Morning Jogging Path
Around Ang Kaew Reservoir
Enjoy a refreshing run or walk on the scenic path encircling the reservoir, a popular spot for students and locals.
Lakeside Coffee Break
Cafes near Ang Kaew Reservoir
Sip on rich coffee or enjoy a refreshing drink at one of the charming lakeside cafes, perfect for reflection.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Campus Access and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during golden hour for stunning photos and a peaceful atmosphere.
👟 Perfect for a Run
Ideal spot for jogging or walking; explore the CMU campus for more routes.
Itinerary Suggestions for Chiang Mai
Ang Kaew Reservoir looking nice this morning
☕ Lakeside Cafes
Enjoy coffee with a view at the cafes by the lake.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun.
Runner Question.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during golden hour for stunning photos and a peaceful atmosphere.
👟 Perfect for a Run
Ideal spot for jogging or walking; explore the CMU campus for more routes.
☕ Lakeside Cafes
Enjoy coffee with a view at the cafes by the lake.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun.
🚗 Easy Access
Grab/Bolt bikes are convenient for getting to and from the reservoir.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Ang Kaew Reservoir for its serene atmosphere, beautiful natural scenery, and suitability for relaxation and exercise. It's a favorite spot for enjoying sunsets and quiet moments, with many appreciating the convenience of lakeside cafes and the accessibility of the CMU campus. Some find it a bit simple, but its peaceful charm is undeniable.
"Came here 3-4 times during my trip. Really enjoy the golden hours and sunset time here. Chill and relaxing vibe. Absolutely the best place to walk and enjoy the nature. In the summer, i would recommend coming here around 6-7p.m to avoid the summer heat"
Minh Anh Nguyễn
"This is a great place to enjoy your morning or evening exercise or just enjoy the setting. Beautiful saroundings and the mountains in the background made this my go to place a few times when visiting the city. Coffee shops also available."
Costas Kyriacou
"I have coffee beside the lake. The taste even richer! Nice place to reflecting yourself, re-strategise, make a better plan, ideation for innovation, or just writing your diary. You can become super-hero just mediating here! 🫡"
MOHD. HANAFI BIN ANI
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ang Kaew Reservoir is located within Chiang Mai University. From the Old City, you can easily take a Grab or Bolt bike, which is a quick and convenient option. It's also a short ride from Nimman Road.
While parking is available within the CMU campus, it can get busy. Using ride-sharing services like Grab or Bolt is often more straightforward and less hassle.
Yes, if you are staying nearby, especially around Nimman Road, it's a pleasant walk or cycle to the reservoir. You can also explore the CMU campus on foot or by bike.
For a day trip, Grab or Bolt bikes are highly recommended for their convenience and affordability. You can also rent a scooter if you're comfortable navigating the city.
While CMU has shuttle buses, they are primarily for students. For public access, ride-sharing services are the most practical choice.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Ang Kaew Reservoir and the Chiang Mai University campus are open to the public and do not require an entrance fee.
The gates to Chiang Mai University typically close around 8 PM, so the reservoir is accessible during daylight hours and into the early evening.
There is no admission fee for anyone, including students and locals, as the area is a public space within the university.
Yes, Ang Kaew Reservoir is open on weekends. It can be a popular spot for locals and students looking for a relaxing weekend activity.
While generally open, it's good to be mindful that it's a university campus. Respect the environment and any posted rules. Shuttle buses are for students only.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, jogging, picnicking on the grassy areas, taking photos, or simply relaxing by the water. It's a great spot for quiet contemplation.
Absolutely! The reservoir offers beautiful scenery, especially during sunrise and sunset, with the mountains in the background. It's a popular spot for nature and landscape photography.
Yes, there are benches and grassy areas around the reservoir, perfect for sitting, relaxing, enjoying a picnic, or reading a book.
Picnics are welcome at Ang Kaew Reservoir. You can bring your own food or purchase snacks and drinks from the nearby cafes and eateries.
Yes, it's a safe and pleasant environment for families. Children can enjoy the open spaces and the natural surroundings.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several cafes and eateries dotted around the lake, offering coffee, juices, wraps, and other light refreshments.
You can find typical cafe fare like coffee, tea, smoothies, juices, and light snacks. Some places might offer wraps or sandwiches.
Prices are generally reasonable, reflecting a university campus environment. You can enjoy a coffee or a snack without breaking the bank.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks for a picnic is perfectly fine and a great way to enjoy the scenery.
While specific menus vary, cafes often have options like fruit smoothies, juices, and sometimes simple wraps that can be adapted. It's best to check with the individual cafe.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most beautiful light for photography. The lush greenery in the summer is also very photogenic.
The reflections on the water, the surrounding greenery, the distant mountains, and the charming lakeside cafes all make for great photo opportunities.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with Chiang Mai University authorities or local regulations before flying a drone on campus.
Experiment with reflections in the water, capture the silhouettes during sunset, and utilize the natural light for vibrant shots.
While popular, especially during sunset, it's generally not as crowded as major tourist attractions, allowing for good photography opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds, the natural environment offers plenty of space for imaginative play. The cafes around the lake provide convenient options for snacks and drinks, ensuring everyone stays refreshed. It’s a peaceful escape that offers a break from the more bustling tourist attractions in Chiang Mai.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
The reservoir is also a fantastic spot for journaling, meditation, or simply people-watching. The relaxed atmosphere of the university campus adds to the sense of calm. It’s a safe and welcoming environment to recharge your batteries and enjoy a moment of peace amidst your travels.
🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
For those who like to mix it up, the surrounding Chiang Mai University campus offers additional routes for longer runs or cycling. The accessibility via Grab/Bolt makes it easy to get there, and the availability of cafes means you can refuel post-workout.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Chiang Mai University Campus
Beyond the reservoir, you can wander through the campus, discover various faculties, and even find small eateries catering to students. The atmosphere is generally relaxed and academic. It’s a great place to experience a slice of local life and see where many of Chiang Mai’s younger generation study. Remember that while the campus is open, shuttle buses are reserved for students, so plan your internal transport accordingly.
For those interested in architecture, CMU also boasts some interesting buildings. The combination of natural beauty at the reservoir and the academic environment of the university makes for a unique and multifaceted visit. It’s a destination that offers both tranquility and a glimpse into local student life.
Your Guide to Running and Fitness at Ang Kaew
For those seeking longer runs, the Chiang Mai University campus itself provides ample opportunities to extend your route. You can explore the various roads and pathways within the university grounds, adding variety and new scenery to your run. This makes Ang Kaew Reservoir a versatile destination for all levels of runners, from casual joggers to dedicated athletes.
After your run, you can cool down with a refreshing drink from one of the lakeside cafes or simply relax on the grassy banks. The combination of a great running environment and accessible amenities makes Ang Kaew Reservoir a top choice for fitness activities in Chiang Mai.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit