The main section of the Night Bazaar is in an enclosed building with many well established shops; however, over the years it has spilled out onto Chang Klan Road and now occupies the northern section of that road above Sridonchai Road.
Most of the streets around this area are overcrowded but this is one of the best (and largest) bargain shopping areas in town. Everything from t-shirts for 60 baht to ornate wood carvings for US$15,000 are for sale here.
The night market can be a good place for silver and hill tribe ware but when shopping, be wary of rip-offs and be sure to give anything you buy a good look over as substandard goods are not uncommon.
Bargain hard as the initial asking price may well be a mark-up of 300 percent plus, and be prepared to walk away. If you are sick of shopping, sit back on the McDonalds terrace and watch the circus unfold.
If you are looking for antique silks and quality weaving and embroidery try the boutiques and small shops along Rachamankha (southeast end) and Loi Kroh roads (near Sarah Guesthouse). You may pay a little more, but are guaranteed to find very knowledgeable shop owners. The market is open until around 23:00.
Getting There
Hire a songthaew, tuk-tuk or tricycle, or simply walk from a centrally-located hotel.
Need to Know
- What is it? Chiang Mai’s best-known shopping street.
- Opening hours: 18:00-23:00 daily.
- Entrance fee: Free.
- Address: Chang Klan Road
- Where: to the east of the Old City, running north-south parallel to the Ping River.