Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, Chiang Mai - Fruit stand at night with colorful hanging decorations
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Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

4.3
·24k reviews·, Thailand

A bustling hub of activity, the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar offers a sensory feast with diverse street food, unique crafts, and lively entertainment.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Saturday & Sunday evenings

Largest crowds & widest selection

CrowdHigh
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Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, Chiang Mai - Fruit stand at night with colorful hanging decorations

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Best Time

Saturday & Sunday evenings

Largest crowds & widest selection

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A bustling hub of activity, the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar offers a sensory feast with diverse street food, unique crafts, and lively entertainment.

4.3
(24k reviews)

"The businesses and folk of Thailand really know how to do their night bazaars."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Bargain Like a Pro

Always haggle for prices! Start lower and meet in the middle. Cash is preferred by most vendors .

💰 Bring Cash

Many vendors don't accept cards, so having cash makes transactions smoother and quicker.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Street Food Delights

Street Food Delights

Kalare Food Centre & surrounding stalls

Indulge in a culinary adventure with diverse Thai street food, from Pad Thai to mango sticky rice. Affordable and delicious!

Handmade Souvenirs

Handmade Souvenirs

Various stalls throughout the bazaar

Discover unique, handcrafted items like clothing, jewelry, and local crafts. Perfect for finding that special memento.

Live Music & Atmosphere

Live Music & Atmosphere

Open areas within the bazaar

Enjoy a lively ambiance with live music performances, adding to the vibrant energy of the market.

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Haggling Culture

Bargaining is expected and part of the fun at the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar! Don't be afraid to negotiate prices, especially for souvenirs. Start lower than you're willing to pay and meet in the middle. Cash is king here, as many vendors prefer it over cards.Reddit

Timing is Everything

While the main Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is open daily, the most vibrant and extensive markets, like the Sunday Walking Street, are weekend-specific. If you're looking for the biggest crowds and widest selection, plan your visit for a Saturday or Sunday evening.TikTok

Best Times

When
Saturday & Sunday evenings
Why
Largest crowds & widest selection
Crowd
High
When
Weeknights, 6 PM onwards
Why
Less crowded, still vibrant
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

You really cant miss this market out it’s too perfect 😭 #chiangmai #jingjaimarket
@mandasaurusss
16.7K likes • 433.8K views

🎯 Bargain Like a Pro

Always haggle for prices! Start lower and meet in the middle. Cash is preferred by most vendors.Reddit

💰 Bring Cash

Many vendors don't accept cards, so having cash makes transactions smoother and quicker.

If you’re in Chiang Mai, don’t miss Jing Jai market! My favourite market in Thailand 💕 #chiangmai #thailand #thailandmarket #chiangmaimarket #travel #southeastasia
@theworldsyourlobster
9.8K likes • 180K views
What to expect at Chiang Mai Night Bazaar 🐘 Book and Get 5% OFF your Thailand activities using our Klook Code: SAANTAYOPUNTAKLOOK 📍 Chiang Mai Night Bazaar #chiangmai #chiangmaithailand #thailand🇹🇭 #nightmarket #elephantpants #thaifood #market #streetfood #mangostickyrice #travelph #saantayopunta #chiangmaitrip #saantayopunta #saantayochiangmai
saantayopunta
0 likes • 9K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Path

Venture into smaller alleys and side markets like Kalare and Anusarn for more variety and hidden gems.Reddit

🍜 Sample Widely

Don't stick to one stall! Try different dishes from various vendors for the full street food experience.Reddit

Chiang Mai’s night bazaar was my favorite shopping/market area so far in Thailand! so much yummy food 🍡 and amazing for souvenir shopping!⁣ ⁣ ⁣ ⁣ #chiangmai #thailandtravel #nightmarket
girlgoingtravel
516 likes • 27.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Bargain Like a Pro

Always haggle for prices! Start lower and meet in the middle. Cash is preferred by most vendors.Reddit

💰 Bring Cash

Many vendors don't accept cards, so having cash makes transactions smoother and quicker.

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Path

Venture into smaller alleys and side markets like Kalare and Anusarn for more variety and hidden gems.Reddit

🍜 Sample Widely

Don't stick to one stall! Try different dishes from various vendors for the full street food experience.Reddit

⏰ Check Market Schedules

The Sunday Walking Street is huge, but other markets like the Saturday Walking Street also offer great experiences.Reddit

🛍️ Look for Unique Crafts

Beyond typical souvenirs, seek out handmade jewelry, pottery, and custom items.TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.3
(24k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse street food, and wide array of unique souvenirs. The opportunity to bargain and the lively entertainment add to the overall enjoyable experience. However, some find the souvenir prices a bit high for tourists and recommend exploring side markets for better deals.

"A fun filled night bazaar that has food, games and cheap stuff to buy. Be ready to bargain, never take the first price. Best to bring cash as some vendors don’t prefer credit (costs them a %)
My favorite was the potstickers or fried dumplings, however you may call them in your part of the world."

John Foster

"Lovely market, lots of things to look at and buy, and things are not repeated which is a nice change. Some quite touristy restaurants but the food court is ok. If you love Thai food perhaps just explore and go over the road to one of the amazing restaurants like Ekachan for a proper meal! There is a little bar (photo) on the corner down near the back entrance that is nice and chill though and worth a visit for a cold drink and some people watching."

Alexander Scott

"Vibrant, cheerful, colourful - everything you can expect from a tourist staple. The souvenirs ard overpriced, so do haggle. There are a lot of food options, bit stick to the traditional items - noodles, fried chicken, banh mis ."

Bodhisattva Sen Roy

What People Like

Vibrant atmosphere
Delicious street food
Unique souvenirs

What People Dislike

Souvenir prices can be high
Can be very crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is centrally located on Chang Klan Road. You can easily reach it by songthaew (red shared taxis), Grab (ride-sharing app), or even a pleasant walk if you're staying nearby in the Old Town or Nimmanhaemin area.Reddit

Yes, songthaews frequently pass by Chang Klan Road, making it a convenient and affordable way to get to the bazaar. Just tell your driver 'Night Bazaar'.Reddit

From the Old Town, you can hop on a red songthaew heading towards the Night Bazaar. It's a short ride and very budget-friendly. Alternatively, it's a walkable distance for many, allowing you to see more of the city.

While there isn't a dedicated large parking lot directly at the main bazaar, there are smaller parking areas and street parking available nearby. It's often easier to use ride-sharing or public transport to avoid parking hassles.

Yes, tuk-tuks are readily available in Chiang Mai and can take you to the Night Bazaar. Be sure to agree on a price before you start your journey.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is free! You only pay for the items you choose to purchase or the food you eat.Instagram

The main Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is typically open daily from around 5 PM to midnight. However, specific market hours can vary, so it's good to check closer to your visit.Instagram

Yes, Chiang Mai has several popular night markets, including the main Night Bazaar (daily), the Saturday Walking Street, and the larger Sunday Walking Street. Each has its own unique charm and offerings.TikTokInstagram

To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for a weekday evening, ideally earlier in the evening (around 5-6 PM). Weekends, especially Sunday, are significantly busier.TikTok

Yes, the main Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is open every day of the week, including Mondays. Other smaller markets might have different schedules.Instagram

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

You'll find a vast array of souvenirs, including elephant pants, silk scarves, handmade jewelry, carved wooden items, ceramics, paintings, and unique local crafts.TikTokInstagram

Absolutely! Bargaining is a key part of the experience. Don't be afraid to negotiate prices, but always do so respectfully.Reddit

Yes, most prices for souvenirs are negotiable. Vendors expect you to haggle. For food, prices are usually fixed.

Explore the smaller side markets like Kalare and Anusarn, as they sometimes offer slightly better prices than the main street stalls. Also, don't be afraid to walk away and come back if you don't agree on a price.

Yes, there's a wide selection of clothing, from casual t-shirts and elephant pants to more traditional Thai attire and fashion items.Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining

The Night Bazaar is a food lover's paradise! You'll find everything from classic Thai dishes like Pad Thai and green curry to grilled meats, seafood, fresh fruit smoothies, and local desserts like mango sticky rice.TikTokInstagram

Generally, yes. The safest bet is to eat at busy stalls where food is cooked fresh and in front of you. Look for vendors with good turnover and where locals are eating.Reddit

Don't miss mango sticky rice, Pad Thai cooked in an egg omelet, grilled skewers, fresh coconut water, and various noodle dishes. Many reviewers rave about the potstickers/fried dumplings too.TikTokReddit

Yes, many stalls offer vegetarian options, especially with dishes like Pad Thai, spring rolls, and vegetable curries. You can often ask for modifications.

Food prices are very affordable. You can get a delicious meal for around 50-100 Baht. Drinks and snacks are even cheaper.TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant colors of the food stalls, the intricate details of the handicrafts, the bustling crowds, and the lively atmosphere with street performers. The evening light creates a magical ambiance.Instagram

It's generally polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their stalls, especially if you're not purchasing anything. A smile and a gesture usually suffice.

The golden hour just after sunset offers beautiful lighting. However, the market truly comes alive after dark with all the lights, creating a unique photographic experience.

The food sections, especially those with colorful displays of fruits and cooked dishes, are very photogenic. Also, look for stalls selling unique crafts or those with interesting signage.

Use a wider aperture to capture more light, increase your ISO cautiously to avoid excessive noise, and consider using a tripod or stabilizing your phone for sharper images in low light conditions.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar offers a vibrant and engaging experience for families. Kids will be fascinated by the colorful stalls, the variety of street food, and the lively atmosphere. Many vendors sell fun trinkets and toys that are perfect for little ones. The open spaces within the market, especially near food courts with seating, provide room for children to move around. Consider trying some of the sweeter treats like mango sticky rice or fresh fruit smoothies, which are usually a hit with younger palates. Remember to keep a close eye on children in crowded areas and consider bringing cash for easy purchases of snacks and small souvenirs.

💰 Budget Travelers

The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is a budget traveler's dream! You can enjoy a full evening of entertainment, shopping, and dining without breaking the bank. Street food is incredibly affordable, with meals often costing less than $3 USD.TikTok+1 Souvenirs can also be found at great prices, especially if you're skilled at bargaining.Reddit Look for deals on clothing, accessories, and local crafts. The market is free to enter, so even if you don't buy much, you can still soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the sights and sounds.

couples

For couples, the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar offers a romantic and lively evening out. Stroll hand-in-hand through the bustling lanes, sample delicious street food together, and find unique souvenirs to commemorate your trip. The atmosphere, often enhanced by live music, creates a fun and engaging backdrop for a date night. Consider enjoying a refreshing drink at one of the small bars within the market while people-watching. The vibrant energy and endless discoveries make it a memorable experience for couples.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Night Bazaar Maze

The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar isn't just one single market; it's a sprawling network of stalls and smaller markets that spill onto the streets. The main Chiang Mai Night Bazaar stretches along Chang Klan Road and is open daily. Adjacent to it, you'll find the Kalare Food Centre, a popular spot for diverse street food and live music.Reddit Further along, Anusarn Market offers more space to browse and a similar array of goods. For a truly immersive experience, especially on weekends, consider the Sunday Walking Street (Tha Phae Walking Street) and the Saturday Walking Street (Wua Lai Walking Street), which are significantly larger and more vibrant, though they operate only on their respective days.TikTokInstagram

Navigating this labyrinth can be part of the adventure. Don't be afraid to wander down smaller alleys or explore the areas just off the main thoroughfare. You might discover hidden gems or quieter spots to enjoy your food. Many visitors find that the sheer scale means you can't see it all in one go, so embrace the exploration and enjoy the discoveries you make along the way.TikTok

A Foodie's Paradise: What to Eat

The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is a culinary hotspot, offering an incredible variety of Thai street food at budget-friendly prices. From classic dishes to regional specialties, your taste buds are in for a treat. Popular choices include Pad Thai, often served dramatically in an egg omelet,TikTok mango sticky rice with creamy coconut milk,Reddit and an assortment of grilled skewers, noodles, and fried snacks. The Kalare Food Centre is a hub for food lovers, featuring numerous stalls with diverse options and often live music to accompany your meal.Reddit

When choosing where to eat, look for stalls that are busy, especially with locals, as this is a good indicator of quality and safety.Reddit Food is generally cooked fresh to order, ensuring a delicious and safe experience. Don't be shy about trying new things; many vendors offer small portions, allowing you to sample a variety of flavors. For those concerned about food safety, eating at the night market is often considered safer than random street vendors due to the higher turnover and visibility of preparation.Reddit

Shopping for Treasures and Bargaining Tips

The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is renowned for its extensive shopping opportunities, offering everything from everyday wear to unique souvenirs. You'll find stalls overflowing with elephant pants, silk products, intricate wood carvings, handmade jewelry, ceramics, and local art.Instagram While the variety is impressive, prices for souvenirs can sometimes be on the higher side for tourists. This is where the art of bargaining comes into play.Reddit

When shopping, remember that haggling is not just accepted but expected. Start by offering a price significantly lower than the asking price (perhaps 50-70% less) and be prepared to negotiate. Maintain a friendly and respectful demeanor throughout the process. If you can't agree on a price, it's perfectly fine to politely decline and move on; sometimes, vendors will call you back with a better offer. Bringing cash is highly recommended, as many vendors prefer it and some may not accept credit cards.Reddit Exploring different stalls and comparing prices before making a purchase can also help you secure the best deals.

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