Kalare Night Bazaar, Chiang Mai - a group of people standing around a booth at night
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Kalare Night Bazaar Chiang Mai

4.2
·828 reviews·, Thailand

A bustling nightly market in Chiang Mai, famous for its diverse food court, live music, and souvenir shopping.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Nightly, 6 PM - 11 PM

Experience the full buzz

CrowdMedium
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Kalare Night Bazaar, Chiang Mai - a group of people standing around a booth at night

Kalare Night Bazaar Chiang Mai

Best Time

Nightly, 6 PM - 11 PM

Experience the full buzz

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A bustling nightly market in Chiang Mai, famous for its diverse food court, live music, and souvenir shopping.

4.2
(828 reviews)

"Kalare Night Bazaar is a must-visit for its huge food court, live entertainment, and vibrant atmosphere."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Sample Everything!

The food court offers endless choices. Try a little bit of everything! :ice_cream:

🎶 Enjoy Live Music

Don't miss the live bands, especially at Boy Blue Bar for classic rock. :musical_note:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kalare Food Court

Kalare Food Court

Behind the main market area

A massive food court with diverse cuisines, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for sampling local and international dishes.

Boy Blue Bar

Boy Blue Bar

Inside Kalare Night Bazaar

Catch live classic rock bands nightly in this cozy, energetic spot. Great music, affordable drinks, and a fun vibe.

Reddit
Street Food Delights

Street Food Delights

From mango sticky rice to Khao Soi, indulge in a wide array of tempting street food options.

InstagramReddit
Shopping for Souvenirs

Shopping for Souvenirs

Browse through stalls selling clothing, fabrics, and unique local crafts. Remember to bargain!

Instagram

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Arrive early to snag a seat at the food court before the crowds descend. While open nightly, some vendors might have fewer options on Saturdays and Sundays. Instagram

Bargain Like a Local

Prices can be a bit touristy, so don't be afraid to haggle for souvenirs and clothing. Street food, however, is generally well-priced and delicious. Reddit

Best Times

When
Nightly, 6 PM - 11 PM
Why
Experience the full buzz
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays, early evening
Why
Fewer crowds, easier seating
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This was such a cute thing to do at the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar Markets and cost £3.10 each! 🫶🏼 #nightbazaar #chiangmai #southeastasia #thailand #thingstodointhailand
@downrainbowlane
22.7K likes • 358.2K views

🎯 Sample Everything!

The food court offers endless choices. Try a little bit of everything! InstagramReddit :ice_cream:

🎶 Enjoy Live Music

Don't miss the live bands, especially at Boy Blue Bar for classic rock. Reddit :musical_note:

Sunday Night Market Chiang Mai Thailand 🇹🇭💗 #livinginthailand #thailand #fypシ #thailand🇹🇭
@mira.spivey
8.9K likes • 66K views
TOP 7 Nightmarkets en Chiang Mai ⭐️ 7. Lanna Square 6. Phaploen Market 5. Sunday Night Market 4. Kalare Night Bazaar y Anusarn Market 3. Chang Phuak 2. Chinatown 1. “Drift Trike Zone” #chiangmai #chiangmainightmarket
miriaminiesta
674 likes • 49.3K views

💰 Bargain Smart

Prices for souvenirs are negotiable. Start lower and meet in the middle. Reddit :moneywithwings:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby Markets

Kalare is part of a larger night market area; explore Anusarn and others too. Reddit :world_map:

The Kalare Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai, Thailand is one of my favorite night markets. #nightmarket #thailand #chiangmai #nightbazaar #nightbazaarchiangmai
toddsmexico
55 likes • 3.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Sample Everything!

The food court offers endless choices. Try a little bit of everything! InstagramReddit :ice_cream:

🎶 Enjoy Live Music

Don't miss the live bands, especially at Boy Blue Bar for classic rock. Reddit :musical_note:

💰 Bargain Smart

Prices for souvenirs are negotiable. Start lower and meet in the middle. Reddit :moneywithwings:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby Markets

Kalare is part of a larger night market area; explore Anusarn and others too. Reddit :world_map:

💧 Stay Hydrated

Grab a fresh fruit smoothie or iced drink to beat the heat. Instagram :tropical_drink:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(828 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Kalare Night Bazaar is a vibrant hub offering a fantastic mix of diverse street food, live music, and shopping. Visitors praise the extensive food court, affordable prices, and the energetic atmosphere, especially at Boy Blue Bar. While some find prices for goods a bit touristy, the overall experience is highly recommended for a taste of Chiang Mai's nightlife and culture.

"Visited the night market for dinner and was greeted by a wide variety of food options!
I was truly spoiled for choice. Took a few rounds walking around before finally deciding what to eat — everything looked so tempting. There were plenty of seats available since I arrived early, but it does get more crowded later in the evening. Overall, it’s a great spot to satisfy your hunger if you’re in the area. Bon appétit!"

Polysemous

"Great food, very well priced, and a good nighttime environment for tourists to hang out - the live band are also rock stars!

There are plenty of tables to sit at any one time, and the vendors are mostly Thai, with other Eastern cuisines available, lots of sweet treats to be had, but be wary of the long TikTok queues of people lining up for ice cream...

Pool tables, darts boards, cheap beers, and friendly staff make it a cool place to hang out if you're stuck for anywhere to chill for the evening. Highly recommended."

Aaron Harris

"Kalare Night Bazaar – A Must-Visit for Nightlife and Culture in Chiang Mai

Kalare Night Bazaar is one of Chiang Mai’s iconic night spots, blending local culture, shopping, and vibrant nightlife. Conveniently located in the city center, it’s easily accessible and perfect for an evening stroll, food tasting, and live entertainment.

The market offers a wide range of local products, souvenirs, and food stalls, catering to both tourists and locals. It’s less hectic than the main Night Bazaar, which makes it ideal for those who prefer a more laid-back atmosphere while still enjoying everything Chiang Mai nightlife has to offer.

A standout highlight here is Boy Blue Bar, tucked inside Kalare. It’s a must-visit for classic rock lovers! This cozy, energetic spot features talented local bands performing oldie rock hits that create a nostalgic and fun vibe. The bar is easy to find and a perfect place to relax, enjoy good music, and meet people.

Pros:
• Central location in Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar area
• Great mix of shopping, food, and music
• Boy Blue Bar offers excellent live rock music
• Friendly atmosphere and welcoming to foreigners

Cons:
• Prices for food and goods can be a bit touristy
• Limited local artisan products compared to other markets
• Gets crowded during peak tourist season

Verdict:
Kalare Night Bazaar is a great choice for visitors looking to enjoy a mix of culture, shopping, and music. Don’t miss Boy Blue Bar—one of the best places in town to experience Chiang Mai’s rock music scene with a drink in hand and good vibes all around."

Myo Thura

What People Like

Incredible food variety
Affordable prices
Live music at Boy Blue Bar

What People Dislike

Tourist prices for goods
Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kalare Night Bazaar is located on Changklan Road, a central area easily accessible by taxi, songthaew (red truck taxi), or even a pleasant walk if you're staying nearby. It's part of the larger Chiang Mai Night Bazaar complex. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's very easy to find. It's situated on Changklan Road, a well-known street in Chiang Mai, and is often grouped with the main Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. Look for the signs and the lively atmosphere. Reddit

Songthaews are a popular and affordable option for getting around Chiang Mai. You can hail them on the street and negotiate a price to the Night Bazaar area. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also readily available. Reddit

Yes, there are parking areas available, especially for those arriving by car or scooter. However, given the popularity, it can get busy, so arriving by public transport or walking might be more convenient. Reddit

Depending on your exact location in the Old City, it's a feasible walk, especially if you enjoy exploring. It's roughly a 20-30 minute walk from the Tha Pae Gate area. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no entrance tickets required to enter Kalare Night Bazaar. It's a public market, and you can freely wander through the stalls and food court. Reddit

Kalare Night Bazaar is typically open every night from around 6:00 PM or 6:30 PM until 11:00 PM. It's best to check closer to your visit for any specific changes. Instagram

Kalare Night Bazaar is generally open daily. However, some sources suggest that on Saturdays and Sundays, there might be fewer stalls or some food court sections closed. Instagram

No, there is no admission fee for the food court. You only pay for the food and drinks you purchase from the vendors. Reddit

Tables in the food court are generally on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving earlier in the evening can help you secure a spot more easily. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

You can find a wide variety of souvenirs, including clothing, t-shirts, elephant pants, handicrafts, jewelry, bags, and local art. Instagram

Yes, bargaining is expected for most items like clothing and souvenirs. Don't be afraid to negotiate prices to get a better deal. Reddit

While there are local crafts, some reviews suggest it might have fewer unique artisan products compared to other specialized markets. However, you can still find interesting local items. Reddit

Prices vary greatly depending on the item. T-shirts might start around 100-150 THB, while more intricate handicrafts can be higher. Always compare prices and bargain. Reddit

Absolutely! Kalare Night Bazaar is known for its fashion stalls, offering everything from casual wear and trendy tops to traditional Thai clothing. Instagram

🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining

The food court offers an incredible diversity of cuisines, including Thai, Chinese, Indian, Turkish, vegetarian, and vegan options. You'll also find plenty of sweet treats and fresh fruit smoothies. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, street food at Kalare Night Bazaar is generally considered safe, especially if you choose vendors that are busy and where food is cooked fresh. It's a safer bet for first-time street food eaters in Chiang Mai. Reddit

Don't miss out on Khao Soi (a Northern Thai curry noodle soup), mango sticky rice, and fresh fruit smoothies. Many vendors offer authentic Thai dishes. InstagramReddit

Yes, the food court is known for having a good selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes, catering to various dietary needs. Reddit

Food prices are very reasonable, especially compared to Bangkok or Hua Hin. You can expect to pay around 50-150 THB for most main dishes. Reddit

🎫 🎶 Entertainment & Atmosphere

Yes, live music is a regular feature, particularly at Boy Blue Bar, which plays classic rock hits nightly. Other areas might also have performers. Reddit

Boxing matches are often held at Kalare Night Bazaar, typically starting around 9:15 PM. They are full-contact and quite entertaining. Reddit

It's a lively and bustling atmosphere, especially in the food court area. It's a great place for tourists to hang out, enjoy good food, music, and soak in the local vibe. Reddit

Yes, it's generally family-friendly. There's a wide variety of food to please picky eaters, and the atmosphere is engaging without being overly rowdy. Reddit

Absolutely! The food court area has numerous bars offering affordable drinks, and Boy Blue Bar is a popular spot for enjoying live music with a drink. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kalare Night Bazaar is a great option for families visiting Chiang Mai. The vast food court offers a wide array of choices, ensuring even picky eaters can find something they'll enjoy. From familiar favorites to new culinary adventures, there's something for everyone. The lively atmosphere, with music and the general buzz of the market, can be quite engaging for children. Reddit

While there aren't specific 'kid zones,' the market provides a safe and stimulating environment for an evening outing. The Muay Thai boxing matches can be exciting for older children, and the variety of stalls selling colorful trinkets and clothing offers visual interest. Just be mindful of crowds during peak hours and keep a close eye on little ones. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Kalare Night Bazaar is a goldmine. The food court offers incredibly affordable and delicious meals, often costing significantly less than restaurant dining. You can enjoy a full, satisfying meal for just a few dollars. Reddit

When it comes to shopping, bargaining is key to getting the best prices on souvenirs and clothing. While some items might be priced higher for tourists, with a bit of negotiation, you can find great deals. The overall cost of food and the opportunity to experience local culture without a hefty entrance fee make Kalare a top choice for budget travelers. Reddit

🎶 Music Lovers

If you're a fan of live music, Kalare Night Bazaar is a must-visit. Boy Blue Bar is renowned for its nightly performances of classic rock hits. It's a fantastic place to unwind with affordable drinks and enjoy talented local musicians in a friendly, unpretentious setting. Reddit

Beyond Boy Blue Bar, other areas of the market may also feature live entertainment, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. It's a great spot to experience Chiang Mai's local music scene and enjoy a night out with good tunes and good company. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Culinary Heart: Kalare's Food Court

The Kalare Food Court is arguably the main draw for many visitors to the Kalare Night Bazaar. It's a sprawling space packed with an astonishing variety of food stalls, offering everything from authentic Thai street food classics like Pad Thai and Khao Soi to international flavors such as Turkish kebabs and Indian curries. You'll also find plenty of options for those seeking vegetarian and vegan dishes, a testament to Chiang Mai's growing culinary diversity. The atmosphere is electric, with the sizzle of woks, the aroma of spices, and the chatter of happy diners filling the air. It's the perfect place to embark on a culinary adventure, sampling small portions from multiple vendors to get a true taste of Thailand. InstagramReddit+1

When visiting the food court, arriving earlier in the evening is often recommended to secure a good table, as it can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season. Many vendors prepare their dishes fresh to order, ensuring quality and taste. Don't shy away from trying dishes you've never encountered before; the friendly vendors are often happy to explain their offerings. For those looking for a refreshing break, the stalls selling fresh fruit smoothies and iced drinks are a lifesaver on a warm Chiang Mai night. InstagramReddit

Beyond the Bites: Entertainment and Atmosphere

Kalare Night Bazaar isn't just about food; it's a hub for entertainment and a vibrant social scene. A major highlight is Boy Blue Bar, a beloved spot within the market that consistently features talented local bands playing classic rock hits. The energetic performances create a nostalgic and fun vibe, making it a popular destination for music lovers. It's a place where you can relax with a drink, enjoy the music, and mingle with both locals and fellow travelers. Reddit

Beyond the music, Kalare Night Bazaar also hosts Muay Thai boxing matches on many nights, typically starting around 9:15 PM. These matches are full-contact and offer an exciting glimpse into Thai combat sports. The overall atmosphere of Kalare is lively and welcoming, making it an ideal spot for an evening out. It's less hectic than some of the larger, more sprawling markets, offering a more manageable yet still engaging experience for those looking to shop, eat, and be entertained. Reddit

Shopping and Bargaining Etiquette

While the food court is a major draw, Kalare Night Bazaar also offers a decent selection of shopping opportunities. You'll find stalls selling a variety of goods, including trendy clothing, elephant pants (a Chiang Mai staple), handicrafts, souvenirs, and accessories. It's a great place to pick up gifts or mementos from your trip. Instagram

When it comes to shopping, bargaining is an essential part of the experience. Don't be afraid to negotiate prices, especially for clothing and souvenirs. A good approach is to offer a price that's about half of what's initially asked, and then work your way up to a mutually agreeable figure. Remember to do so with a smile and a friendly attitude. While some reviews note that prices can be a bit tourist-oriented, skillful bargaining can still lead to good deals. Reddit

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