8 Delicious Thai Drinks And Beverages - Chiang Mai & Beyond

Thailand is home to a thriving coffee culture, with many cafes serving high-quality speciality coffee, particularly in the country's Northern region. Take in the delightful aroma of the coffee beans, cultivated in the lush forests of Chiang Mai, or try a refreshing glass of Oliang, a Thai-style iced coffee made with strong brewed coffee, condensed milk, and sugar — the perfect remedy for the high temperatures and tropical climate.

Ladled into plastic bags at markets or served in glasses at charming restaurants, Che Yen is a staple across Thailand, having captured the hearts of a global audience. Locally, this classic tea is enjoyed in its simplest form of Ceylonese black tea and condensed milk, although variations include simmering the drink in a variety of fragrant spices. Found in virtually every city in the country, sip on the sweet, creamy tea at a market in Bangkok, or order a glass from the in-house restaurant at your 4 star hotel in Chiang Mai.

A lesser-known, yet equally delectable Thai tea, Cha Nom Yen is a popular Northern drink. This creamy and sweet beverage is a perfect refreshment on a hot day, made with brewed tea, condensed milk, and a touch of sala syrup, derived from its namesake fruit and responsible for the drink's distinctive pink colour.

Thanks to its warm climate and tropical vegetation, Thailand showcases an abundant selection of tropical fruits, pressed into a variety of fresh juices served around the country. Sample a range of flavours, such as sweet yet tangy passion fruit, the creamy flavours of mangosteen, or bael fruit, a pulpy drink that features a unique, almost aromatic taste. Sip on freshly made bael juice from traditional Thai metal cups at Tong Tem Toh, one of Chiang Mai's most highly rated restaurants, located a short distance from Travelodge Nimman. These juices are not only refreshing but also packed with vitamins and minerals.

Another way to deal with the scorching summer months, Nam Manao is a simple yet refreshing limeade, made from the juice of locally grown limes, carbonated water, and a dollop of sugar. It's a popular choice on hot days and is often served with ice by friendly market vendors. 

Tub Tim Krob is a delicious, and unique dessert drink. Consisting of water chestnuts soaked in syrup and served in coconut milk, the chewy texture of the nuts and the creamy coconut base create a delightful combination.

Visually stunning with its bright blues and purple hues, butterfly pea flower tea is a unique herbal concoction that changes colour when lemon or lime is added. The tea is also packed with health benefits, including antioxidant properties.

Another popular herbal tea, an aromatic cup of lemongrass ginger tea is a beloved choice for its refreshing and invigorating flavour. The tea is also believed to have various health benefits, including aiding digestion and boosting immunity.