Launch of Dibba Yana Chitta at Anantara Chiang Mai Resort

February 18

Anantara Chiang Mai Resort launched one of northern Thailand’s most spectacular vessels, taking guests on an unforgettable culinary experience.
Blending unique Thai design with the beauty of the historic Mae Ping River the ‘Dibba Yana Chitta’, or ‘Heavenly Boat’ is designed by acclaimed Thai National Artist, Ajarn Chalermchai Kositpipat, known worldwide for his famous ‘White Temple’ in Chiang Rai, which draws over a million visitors from around the globe each year. One of Thailand’s most popular contemporary artists, Ajarn Chalermchai was named Thailand’s National Artist of the Year in 2011 in lifelong recognition of his work. His latest design is inspired by series of paintings named ‘Dibba Yana Chitta’. The boat’s design depicts the journey from this world to the next and the vessel’s figurehead has been hand-carved into a mythical creature, symbolising the transport of humans along the river to heaven.
Highly exclusive, with only 18 seats, guests on board can indulge in the finest Thai dining experience. Each season, a new tasting menu is to be curated by the kingdom’s top Michelin-starred chefs, with the inaugural menu by Chef Piyachart Phudtawong (nicknamed Boy) of Saneh Jaan restaurant in Bangkok.
Born into a family of chefs, Chef Boy first rose to fame as a contestant on Iron Chef. His specialty lies in traditional Thai desserts, inspired by rare royal recipes he has collected over the years. Guests aboard the Dibba Yana Chitta now can enjoy his seven-course menu of classic Thai cuisine, perfectly paired with wines from Thailand’s leading vineyard, Monsoon Valley, from December 2024 until the end of March 2025.
“At Anantara Chiang Mai, river life is an integral part of the resort experience, “said Pitak Norathepkitti, General Manager of Anantara Chiang Mai Resort. “The Mae Ping River has been the lifeline of the city since ancient times and to observe life unfolding along its banks today is to feel the very soul of the destination and we are truly honoured to have collaborated with a world-renowned artist such as Ajarn Chalermchai Kositpipat to bring this unique and special experience to all our guests.”