Is Chiang Mai Tap Water Safe To Drink?

No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.

Tap water in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is generally treated and meets basic safety standards. However, water quality can vary by location and infrastructure.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Many locals and tourists avoid drinking tap water due to potential contamination from aging pipes and occasional treatment lapses. Bottled or filtered water is preferred.

For safe consumption, use bottled, boiled, or properly filtered water. This precaution aligns with common public health recommendations for travelers in Chiang Mai.

Last checked: 2025-04-25

Thailand is ranked as number 100 globally with a score of 51.2% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai's tap water mainly comes from the Ping River and nearby reservoirs. These surface water sources supply the city's water treatment plants.

Groundwater from wells supplements the supply, especially during dry seasons. This helps maintain continuous water availability for residents.

Water treatment plants in Chiang Mai use processes like sedimentation, filtration, and chlorination to make surface and groundwater safe for distribution.

Chiang Mai Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Chiang Mai may not consistently meet safety standards due to varying maintenance and water quality issues. Caution is advised.

Contamination risks include bacteria and pollutants from untreated or poorly treated water sources feeding the fountains. Regular testing is often lacking.

For safety, use bottled or filtered water instead of public fountains, especially for travelers and those with sensitive health conditions.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Chiang Mai. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

Nearby Places

About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.

I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.

Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job — it's something I truly care about.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Chiang Mai is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.