Unmistakably, one
instantly feels the throwback vibe Na Nirand bestows upon its guest. Upon our enthusiastic probing for details, we were eventually told by the manager that
the various style of residences in the property, incorporates a classic
northern Thai architecture called Lanna.
This style involves a specific design scheme composed mostly of wooden houses built on
stilts, and characterized by a spacious veranda and a ‘galae’ component in the roof – styled in V-shape form attached to the beams.
Blending post-modern ideas
into the classic Lanna style, the current look of Na Nirand summons both the 19th
century colonial architecture prevalent during the reign of King Rama 5 and a
modern sleek look that boast of a romantic atmosphere as well.
Situated on the side of Ping
River - which flows along the Nan River and is one of the two major tributaries
of Chao Phraya River, Na Nirand impresses a location that is intimately closer
to nature.
Since we arrived a day
after the Loy Krathong festival, we still held a mini celebration among our
group by lighting a candle on a small bouquet of flowers and elaborately cut
banana leaves and releasing it to flow over the river, carrying with it our
silently recited prayer and wishes.
Aside from the stunning
fusion of the deep-rooted and contemporary architecture, the well landscape
lawn grounds, gardens and the imposing century old tree all competes to arrest one’s
attention.
According to the manager we
talked to, the 100 plus year-old tree traces its origin to the early years of
the Royal Forest Department which was established way back in 1896. Then
Conservator of Forest; H. Slade is believed to have planted the tree himself.
During our 4-night stay
here, I found myself waking up before the others so I could see the reflection
of the rising sun on the waters of Ping River, while I listen to the chirping
birds nesting on the many indigenous trees rooted all over the fertile grounds of the resort.
Inside my room; the wooden
charm of Lanna architecture becomes more stylistically felt. Coupled by the
interior elements consisting of rattan furniture, artisan-crafted fixtures,
colorful woven cloth and visually pleasing blend of colors – equates to the romantic theme Na Nirand aims to convey.
The aesthetic time travel continues
to Na Nirand’s Time Riverfront Cuisine & Bar which sits squarely right beside
the river. Despite employing vintage industrial interior, it still vibes well
with the over-all Lanna ambiance of the resort. Serving a sumptuous Lanna
cuisine (Northern Thai food), it provided our whole group with a dinner to
remember during our first night – particularly this creamy and oozingly-juicy
shrimp dish (pictured below). There are two other places at Na Niran where you can unwind while enjoying a drink and an array of mouth watering appetizers and snacks; the poolside Lanna Rice Barn and Bar and the quaint Huan Kammung teak house which is located right above the stilts in the second floor.
After exploring the city of Chiang Mai by
day throughout our five-day tour of the – Na Nirand provided our group a
wonderful home and a perfect place to bookend our delightful experience, courtesy of the homey mood, chill-down atmosphere and
pampering we got from the resort’s staff. I could say I had a grand time staying at this lovely resort.
Yes, even without a romantic liaison.
Yes, even without a romantic liaison.
Book a Room now at NA NIRAND
