Chiang Mai Shopping

If you are interested in some Chiang Mai shopping or would just like to pass a little time in recreational browsing, Chiang Mai shopping has literally something for everyone. The modern, upscale locations are the Robinsons' Airport Plaza (the newest and the largest) and the Central Kad Suan Kaew Shopping center near the northwest corner of the old city moat. These the type of spotless and climate controlled shopping shopping experience available in any developed country.

For a different kind of experience and more local flavor there are a wealth of opportunities from the tourist oriented Night Bazaar to the local fresh markets and second hand bazaars. If these interest you, understand that bargaining is a part of daily life and is mostly expected by the vendors. If you are inexperienced in haggling, a quick education is available free as you watch and listen to other shoppers. The basics are quite simple. Don't waste the sellers time if you aren't really interested in buying. Understand that the seller needs to make a profit. Try your luck at the next shop or stall if you don't get the price you feel comfortable with. And above all, smile and enjoy yourself.

Night Bazaar

The Night Market begins setting up daily in the late afternoon along several blocks of Chan Klan Road beginning at the intersection with Thapae Road. By dark, the festivities are in full swing with hundreds of vendors and sometimes thousands of tourists crowding the sidewalks in search of bargains on locally made handicrafts and knockoffs of designer goods. This is where English and a variety of other languages are spoken more or less fluently and the sellers are world class negotiators.

The market begins winding down around midnight but the eating and drinking establishments around the edges of the market will continue much later. You'll easily find a number of places to rest and refresh and even see a show of traditional northern music and dance (maybe at the new Kalare Plaza.) Some of the exotic temptations include Starbucks, McDonald's and Burger King.

There are some annoyances in addition to the press of the crowds. Persistent Hill tribe women and their children circulate through the market showing their goods but can be sent away with a smile and a shake of the head if you're not interested. There is a police presence but in the heavy crowds it's wise to keep your valuables close due to the possibility of pickpockets.

Transportation to and from the Night Bazaar is not a problem with the abundance of Tuk Tuks and Songtaews shuttling between the Bazaar and hotels around town.

Sunday Walking Street

One of the most popular entertainments for locals as well as tourists is the market that sets up on Ratchadamoen Road (the continuation of Thapae Road inside the moat.) Six long blocks are lined with local craftsmen, food and drink vendors, student musicians, food massage areas and sellers of almost anything that can be carried in. The market runs from 2:00 in the afternoon until about 10:00 at night with the crowds (and sellers) seeming generally more relaxed than in the Night Bazaar.

A three block side trip up Propakklao Road (about halfway between Thapae Gate and the police station) will take you to the plaza in front of the Three Kings statue and the Chiang Mai City Museum. Beginning about 7:00 p.m. there are performances of Lanna music and dance in traditional costumes.

San Kamphaeng and Bosang

Driving east from the city center for a few kilometers will take you to the Chiang Mai shopping villages of San Kamphaeng and Bosang. There are a number of factories producing Saa (mulberry) paper umbrellas, silver work, ceramics, silk, gemstones and other local products. Being major stops on many tourist itineraries, the roads and major shops can be very congested in the high tourist season.

Wua Lai Road

Wualai Road near the Chiang Mai Gate is old center of the silver working district. Jewelry and ornaments, food trays, wall murals and sculpture are produced by hand in small shops. A number of the craftsmen sit on the street in front of their shops working on their creations, especially during the Saturday Bazaar on the street. Bargaining for their wares seems to be the accepted practice.

Baan Tawai

30 minutes driving south of the city, is Baan Tawai. A Chiang Mai shopping tourist stop with arcades selling everything from interior d�cor items, antiques, wood carvings, ceramics, fabrics, furniture to a large variety of cheap souvenirs.

Second Hand Bazaar

Saturday and Sunday from about 9 am until 6 pm. there is a regular Second hand Bazaar on Bumrungrad Road next to the Prince Royal School. Clothes, household items, tools, magazines and the occassional treasure are all on offer.

Fresh Markets

Although Chiang Mai shopping benefits from some excellent modern supermarkets (Rimping, Top, Lotus and Carrefour are all good,) most Thais will also frequent their favorite market with fresh produce, fruits, flowers and prepared foods including northern-style dishes.

PRATU CHIANGMAI MARKET (At Chiangmai Gate on Bamroongburi Road)

A neighborhood market popular for prepared foods.

SANPAKHOY MARKET (Charoenmuang Road)

Meats, seafood, fresh produce and cooked foods.

TOHN PAYORM MARKET (Suthep Road)

A large market for fruit and fresh vegetables with very good prices.

THANIN MARKET (Chotana Road)

A smaller market with foods and a number of shops offering simple wood furniture at good prices.

FLOWER MARKET (Mahidol Road, opposite the Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center)

Potted trees, flowering and decorative plants and gardening supplies.

BUAK HAAD MARKET (Arrak Road)

A large supply of tropical fish, fish food, aquariums and supplies.

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