Markets of Chiang Mai

​Thailand is known for its local markets and Chiang Mai, especially, has one the most diverse and exciting markets. They are scattered within and around the Old City walls and there is bound to be one open any day of the week. Most of these are night markets that pop up in the evening. At the markets, locals and tourists can buy anything from elephant pants to handicrafts to groceries to street food. 

​During my three days in Chiang Mai, I walked through countless markets admiring the details of the handicrafts and appreciating the candid interactions amongst locals. I realized that these markets are a big part of Thai culture and way of life.
 
These are my favorite markets that I visited:

Sunday Walking Streets

​This is the biggest market in Chiang Mai where several streets are closed for vendors to set up shop. As the name suggests, it’s only open on Sundays from around 5pm until midnight where it’s packed with people. Vendors sell all sorts of artwork, craft, jewelry, clothing and there are even stalls to get street food. I bought a wood-carved elephant here for less than $5 USD! I highly recommend this if your itinerary allows.

Warorot Market

​The Warorot Market is a daytime market located within a multi-storied building and extends outside to the neighboring streets. The top floors sell clothing and accessories while the ground floor is dedicated to food and local Thai snacks. This densely-populated market is popular among locals and you can experience the authentic Thai lifestyle by trying to order food in a crowd of Thai locals. 

Night Bazaar & Kalare Bazaar

​This is one of the most popular markets in Chiang Mai. The two bazaars are across the street from each other but the entire area, and along the streets, is lined with vendors. You can buy almost anything here, but make sure to practice your bargaining skills. The Night Bazaar mainly sells clothing, accessories and knock-off brands while the Kalare Bazaar also includes a food court. In the Kalare Bazaar there’s a hidden live-music bar on the second floor called the Boy Blues Bar, where you can hear local and cover songs – very chill vibe! The bazaars are open daily but are quieter on Saturdays and Sundays as vendors flock to the walking streets. 

Chiang Mai Gate Market (South Gate)

​At night, this market is lined with food vendors but in the morning it’s a local produce market. Vendors set up tables in the semi-open hall and lined the street with makeshift stands, selling anything from bagged dishes to fresh vegetables to raw meat. When I went around 8 am there were very few tourists and I got a glimpse of a typical Thai daily routine. It was at this market that I felt most immersed in the Thai lifestyle and witnessed some of the most authentic interactions.

Chang Phuek Market (North Gate)

​Located just outside the moat, this night market is filled with street vendors where you can try traditional Northern Thai food like the Sai Ua (pork sausage). There are also other local dishes, fresh fruits and juices for you to try and outdoor seating areas for you to dine in. Be careful of the chili peppers on the side as they have a strong kick! I’d encourage trying a little bit of everything here!