Thailand is famous for its vibrant markets, where visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, indulge in delicious street food, and shop for unique souvenirs. From bustling night markets to walking street markets, Chiang Mai has a market for every taste and preference. In this page, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best markets in Chiang Mai, highlighting their unique features and what makes them a must-visit destination for anyone visiting or living in Chiang Mai.
Displaying the magnificent artwork and craftsmanship of the Northern Thai people, the streets of this place for shopping in Chiang Mai are buzzing with people as soon as it gets a little dark. With music being played by street buskers, the place is a magical one to be in despite the amount of walking it requires in order to really cover the market from all ends. Fresh fruit juice stands, puppeteers, handicraft products, and coffee shops make the highlights of the market. Ratchadamneon road is closed off to traffic whenever the market is open to allow the customers to freely roam around and shop without the worry of incoming vehicles throughout the streets.
Opening Hours: 4pm-12am (Sunday Only)
The night market provides a glimpse of everything the city has to offer. Numerous vendors put up their stalls here, selling items ranging from Thai silk, shoes, CDs, spices, clothes and antiques. Bargaining is a common thing in the market and you might require a few negotiation skills to get a good deal. The market is also lined with some delightful Thai seafood sections and noodle restaurants. If you are in the city, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is a “can’t miss” experience.
Opening Hours: 6:30pm-10:30pm (Everyday)
Opening up in the late afternoon, the stalls here provide a wide range of locally crafted goods, original paintings, clothes, and locally designed jewellery. Since walking down the street and shopping uses up a good amount of your energy, the quick food pit stops help to refuel yourself. There are many places and restaurants selling Thai food including barbequed fish, som tam, pad Thai, etc. As well as stands offering Thai sweets. With massage booths, spending the evening in the street is sure to become the best experience of being in Chiang Mai.
Opening Hours: 5pm-11pm (Saturday Only)
Also known as Kad Luang, this is a must-visit market for all the foodies and people looking for fresh produce and local street delicacies. From spices, herbs to delicious street food, you can find everything related to food here. The second and third floors are dedicated to clothing and everyday merchandise and you can also find cheap cosmetics and personal care products. However, the highlight of the marker is its tantalising selection of food.
Opening Hours: 6am-7pm (Everyday)
With rows and rows of stalls selling souvenirs and local Thai products, this place for shopping in Chiang Mai is popular among tourists who want an edgy shopping adventure. With massages booths working on affordable prices, 100 THB for 30 minutes and 160 THB for an hour, you can feel refreshed and ready to explore more. A fish spa is another interesting feature of the market which draws a lot of customers looking for different forms of relaxation. The low-cost delicious meal outlets add a whole new level of entertainment to the place. There are Thai, Indian, Israeli and Japanese food options.
Opening Hours: 6:30pm-12am (Everyday)
This food market is located in Chiang Mai’s busy bag packer area, not far from Chiang Mai Gate. It mainly offers food as well as fresh fruits and vegetables and is a favorite. Due to its central location, it is the ideal spot to experience an authentic Thai market within the confines of the more touristy area. Next to its fresh food a variety of stalls offer hot dishes, tasty snacks and healthy smoothies. The visitor can get a taste of the traditional Northern Lanna cuisine or venture to one of the many Thai and international restaurants close by. Sompet Market is the ideal place for fresh and seasonal products.
Opening Hours: Approx 7am-7pm (Everyday)
JJ (Jing Jai) is located north of the old city on Assadathon Road and the modern market offers a range of goods and dishes. Inside the different buildings, visitors can find a variety of antique shops which sell everything from furniture to statues and spirit houses. The stylish arrays of handcrafted products make this market extremely popular with collector and hobby designers alike. The surrounding area is filled with restaurants and bars which are extremely popular with locals. JJ Markets tranquil atmosphere and its authentic goods make it an intriguing destination for any Chiang Mai visitor.
Opening Hours: 6:30am-3pm (Weekends Only)
Mae Rim has a daily market that takes place in the middle of town each morning, mainly selling food and other essentials.
On Tuesdays from 2-8pm, there is a Market in Mae Rim Plaza that has a larger selection of food, food stalls and other goods.
On Friday's from 2-8pm, there is a big Market at the Mae Rim/Rim Thai intersection.