When thinking of or planning a visit to Thailand, the first city that comes to mind might is Bangkok. Understandably so, it’s the capital city. But if you want a quieter pace of life and laidback charm then consider Chiang Mai. The city is often dubbed Thailand’s shopping capital because of the plethora of night markets and bustling night bazaars. Nail down the basics with our Chiang Mai shopping guide as we list all the things you need to know from when to shop and the best things to buy.
Chiang Mai is a city in Northern Thailand that blends stunning natural landscapes with historical landmarks and contemporary touches. Find yourself marvelling at the beautiful temples across the Old Town or relaxing at quaint cafes in the hip Nimman neighbourhood. Otherwise, visit elephant sanctuaries and participate in other exciting outdoor activities for an even more memorable trip. But the most exciting thing to do in Chiang Mai? It’s shopping, of course.
The city is famous for its markets, whether it’s on the weekday, weekend, or all week long. You’ll be spoiled for choice on where to go and what to buy. That’s when this Chiang Mai shopping guide comes in handy. We break down the unmissable markets and bazaars to visit including the best time to shop and the best things to buy in Chiang Mai. So, the next time you’re in Chiang Mai, you’ll simply just have to enjoy shopping.
Your ultimate Chiang Mai shopping guide
When is the best time to go shopping in Chiang Mai?
Every day is a good day to shop in Chiang Mai simply because there’s a market for everyone. Plus, there’s also one available every day of the week. Whether it’s the night markets, the weekend markets, or the weekday markets, you have plenty to choose from.
While the opening times for night markets are usually 4 pm or 5 pm, shop owners are still setting up by then so it’s best to come after 6 pm. As the name suggests, weekend markets are only open at the weekends. They also tend to be a little further from the city centre, which makes them perfect for weekend trips. It’s best to arrive earlier for weekend markets because the crowd will naturally form throughout the day.
Then, there are the weekday or all-week markets. They’re only open during the weekdays and mostly more catered to locals. Naturally, it’s best to visit during the day when there are fewer crowds.
What are the best things to buy in Chang Mai?
Local handicrafts
One of the best things to buy in Chiang Mai is definitely the handicrafts. This is simply because the skills used to make them have been passed down through generations. Master craftsmen teach their proteges how to make these products. Shop for local textiles, ceramics, or art pieces made with skill and available at reasonable prices.
Hand-carved soaps
You might think this is simple but the hand-carved soaps in Chiang Mai come in various designs and scents. They’re perfect for daily use (if you choose to!) or even as a gift. Among the bestsellers are soaps carved into floral shapes and painted in different shapes. To wrap it up, they also come in wooden boxes making them extra special.
Thai snacks
How can you say no to Thai snacks? Whether you’ll eat them as soon as you buy them or give them away as a gift, Thai snacks are simply a must when you’re in Chiang Mai. Among the ones we recommend include dried mango or dried tamarinds. There are other dried fruits available too depending on what you want to try. You can also get crackers or peanuts as well as cookies.
Coffee beans or tea
Chiang Mai has a growing coffee scene and you’ll find many quaint cafes in the city. So, when in the city, not only is visiting a cafe a must but also bringing a piece of that home. You can shop for locally made coffee beans or tea and brew them back home. In general, Thailand is also known for its iced milk tea, you can purchase milk tea powder in markets as well.
Local produce
If you can, we also recommend getting some local produce in Chiang Mai. The city has plenty of farms that produce high-quality fruits and vegetables but come at friendly prices. Take, for instance, Thai mango and avocado. If you crave Thai food after your trip, you can (sort of) make authentic food back home using Thai products.
Bags and purses
You simply can’t leave Chiang Mai without purchasing a bag or a purse. It’s even better if it comes in a traditional design such as those made from repurposed textiles or in intricate patterns. Whether it’s a tote bag, a handbag, or even a coin purse, you’ll easily find one in the many walking street markets. They also come in a variety of colours and are best bought in bulk so you can save even more.
The best shopping markets in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Given its name, it feels like it’s a ‘must’ to visit Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. It’s at the epicentre of the city centre so it’s also fairly easy to get to. Here, you’ll find various stalls selling different products such as clothing, furniture, souvenirs, and food. In fact, the highlight here might actually be the food such as mango sticky rice and pad Thai. The night bazaar also gets a plus point for being partly indoors so you don’t have to worry about the rain or sun. Shop until you drop because this shopping market covers a whole neighbourhood.
Opening hours: 5 pm to 12 pm
Address: Intersection of Tha Pae and Chang Klan Road, Chiang Mai 50100
Sunday Walking Market
You can’t miss the Sunday Walking Market if you’re in Chiang Mai on a Sunday. Also called the Tha Pae Sunday Walking Street, it only runs once a week so take advantage of it. The one-kilometre-long stretch of stalls passes through the main tourist area, ending at The Pae Gate. However, it’s not only a single row of bazaars, you’ll find them left and right, in all directions. The variety of goods here will also leave you spoiled for choice. The snacks are great for a pre-dinner affair while the clothes come at a bargain. Browse through the accessories, handicrafts, artworks, and even massage areas on the roadside.
Opening hours: 4 pm to 10:30 pm on Sundays
Address: Rachadamnoen Road, Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Wua Lai Walking Street
In case you missed the Sunday Walking Street, don’t fret. There’s the Saturday Walking Street or the Wua Lai Walking Street. It’s on a much smaller scale than the Sunday one but that may be a good thing for some because it feels a little less overwhelming. Here, you’ll find more locally made products with plenty of room to stop and shop. There’s a quiet charm about this market that some may prefer to the crowded markets filled with tourists.
Opening hours: 4 pm to 10:30 pm on Saturdays
Address: Wua Lai Rod, Phra Sing, Mueang Chiang Mai Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
Anusarn Market
In terms of scale, Anusarn Market isn’t the biggest. The options are fewer and more focused on souvenirs, clothing, gifts, and decor. But it earns a point in our book for having live music and plenty of food and beverage options. It’s also one of the markets that is open until late at night. So, after all the shopping, treat yourselves to some delicious Thai, Indian, or Japanese food at one of the stalls. The options here are also budget-friendly and you can shop in bulk at affordable prices.
Opening hours: 5 pm to 12:30 am
Address: Anusarn market 14-15 Changklan Rd, Tambon Chang Khlan, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai
Chang Puak Gate Market
Chuang Puak Gate Market will give foodies a run for their money. This food market is open every evening just near Chang Puak (North Gate) in the Old Town. Sample local delicacies at reasonable prices with varieties that will delight even the pickiest eaters. That said, food isn’t all that’s available here. Locals and tourists alike also come and shop for clothing, ornaments, shoes, candles, artwork, and more.
Opening hours: 5 pm to 12 pm
Address: 248/70 Manee Nopparat Road, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai
Jing Jai Market
Jing Jai Market or JJ Market is part of the bigger Jing Jai Central, which consists of the market, a village, and a gallery all in one area. The flea market offers a refreshing variety of products, mostly handmade goods by local artists and other trendy items. The price is on the higher end compared to other markets but it also takes more effort to make the products here. In addition to stalls, there is also an art space that features rotating exhibitions all year round. Admire the work of local artists ranging from fine arts, music, and even cinematic arts. The market also has live music and a massage pavilion as well as a farmer’s market on Wednesdays and Fridays to buy fresh and organic produce.
Opening hours: Weekends from 7 am to 3 pm (individual store times vary)
Address: 45, Atsadathon Road Mueang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai
Kalare Night Bazaar
If you’re looking for a quieter place to shop, we recommend Kalare Night Bazaar. The shops are not so much of a maze as other bigger night markets making it easier to navigate. You can still shop for everything under the sun (or moon) like clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. Although, Kalare’s biggest draw is its plethora of food stalls and entertainment spaces. A must-see here is the Thai boxing fights held on the regular. It’s not just for show, they’re actual fights that take place in the stadium behind the market.
Opening hours: 6 pm to 12 am
Address: Chang Khlan Road, Chang Khlan Subdistrict, Chiang Mai
Ploen Ruedee Night Market
Most walking markets in Chiang Mai are an eat-as-you-walk type of experience. But not at Ploen Ruedee Night Market. There’s an entire seating area here just to unwind and enjoy your food, all while listening to live music and performances—if you’re lucky. If you can’t choose from the variety of food options available then simply buy from multiple stalls and enjoy them all at once at the seating area. Besides the food, there are also stalls offering crafts, souvenirs, and other handmade goods. There’s also no shoulder-to-shoulder situation here as there are relatively fewer crowds. So, catch your breath and enjoy shopping and eating.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 6 pm to 12 am
Address: 28/3-4 Changklan Road, Chang Moi, Mueang Chiang Mai
Shopping malls in Chiang Mai
Central Festival Chiang Mai
Looking for a Western-style mall while in Chiang Mai? Then, look no further than Central Festival Chiang Mai. It bills itself as the largest, most comprehensive, and perhaps the most modern shopping complex in Northern Thailand. This six-floor shopping mall is home to leading lifestyle brands such as Starbucks, Uniqlo, Lush, and more. The ground floor and fourth floor are entirely dedicated to food so you won’t even run out of choices. There’s also a skating rink on the third floor in addition to other facilities for kids like the arcade.
Opening hours: Weekdays from 11 am to 9 pm, weekends from 10 am to 10 pm
Address: 99/3 Moo 4, Fah Ham, Mueang Chiangmai, Chiang Mai, 50000
One Nimman
When it comes to shopping malls in Chiang Mai, One Nimman is the place to be. The entire Nimman neighbourhood is a far cry from Old Town as it is hipper and trendier with its own youthful charm. So, if you only really have time to visit one shopping mall, make it One Nimman. It’s home to numerous shops, art galleries, cafes, and food stalls. It’s a cultural and art space all rolled into one. Of course, the price is on the higher end and maybe you can’t bargain but the options are also different than those at the night market.
Opening hours: 11 am to 10 pm
Address: Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Maya Lifestyle Shopping Centre
Thinking of cooling off on a hot day? Or need a refuge when it’s raining? Maya Lifestyle Shopping Centre in the cool Nimman neighbourhood stretches six floors. At the modern shopping mall, you’ll find a range of shops from fashion to gadgets, beauty, and entertainment. There are also cafes and a cinema inside if you’re looking to spend hours indoors. When the weather is good, head up to the rooftop and see 360-degree views of the city. After all, the urban shopping destination spans 200,000 square metres with more than 250 shops. So, whether you’re just casually hanging out or in the mood for shopping, this is the place to be.
Opening hours: 10 am to 10 pm
Address: 5 Huay Kaew Road, Chang Phueak, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand
Central Chiang Mai Airport (Central Plaza)
Although it has ‘airport’ in its name, this shopping mall is not in the airport but quite close to it. It’s a large shopping mall and entertainment complex that welcomes six million visitors each year. The mall boasts seven movie theatres on top of a multi-purpose convention hall, a handicraft zone, and tons of shops. Given its close proximity to the airport, it’s a great last-minute shopping stop before jetting off to your next destination.
Opening hours: Weekdays from 11 am to 9 pm, weekends from 10 am to 9 pm
Address: 2 Mahidol Road Mueang Chiang Mai Chiang Mai 50200
Tips for the best shopping experience in Chiang Mai
Double-check the opening hours and days
The opening hours listed in this article are accurate at the time of writing. However, these can easily change so it’s best to double check. We also recommend not to go too early to night markets. While most of them open at 4 or 5 pm, shop owners don’t start setting up until 6 pm. You may find some shops open but a majority of them may not be so to get the full experience, come later. However, for weekend markets like Jing Jai Market, coming early is better because it can get crowded during the day. So, make sure you don’t visit the Sunday Walking Market on a Saturday and vice versa.
Cash is your best friend
If you’re visiting night markets and weekday/weekend bazaars, it’s best to bring cash with you. Although there is now a QR code or digital payment methods available, most stalls will still prefer cash. If you can, also have smaller value notes ready especially early in the day as some stalls may not have change readily available.
Haggle if you can
You can haggle for more. Sometimes, the prices given may be on the higher end, especially for tourists so be smart about it and haggle. If the price is written down, it may be difficult to haggle but it’s not, try to get at least 10 to 20% off the original, We also recommend visiting similar shops, asking for the price, and comparing so you can get an idea of the average selling price.
Come hungry
Plenty of walking markets in Chiang Mai have food stalls that sell kinds of food. The best way to enjoy the experience is by trying the many food available so make sure you come hungry. And if you’re still hungry by the end of it or want a proper meal, there are plenty of restaurants near most walking markets so you’ll be sure to find something to satisfy.
Featured and hero image credit: 501room/Getty Images
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Chiang Mai is a very walkable city especially in the Old Town area. The temples are close to each other so you can easily walk. You can also take the tuk tuk or use Grab.
The best souvenirs to buy in Chiang Mai include local coffee beans, tea, as well as fresh produce, Thai snacks, and handmade crafts.
You can buy local handicrafts in night markets and bazaars such as Chiang Mai Night Market, Sunday Walking Market, and Jing Jai Market.
For items that already have prices written down, it's usually a little harder to bargain. However, you can first ask for the price and then haggle for 10-20% off of the price. Alternatively, you can visit several shops selling the same or similar product to get an idea of the average selling price and bargain from there.
Cash is the most common payment in markets. Some shops may accept digital payment but it's best to bring some cash.
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Written by
Jianne Soriano
Senior Digital Writer (Growth) - Dining, Culture & Travel
An introvert at heart, Jianne has an immense passion for storytelling. After working in Tokyo, this Filipino, Hong Kong-born native is back to tell stories about her home(s). When she’s not writing, you can find her looking for the best hojicha spots, binge-watching her comfort movies, or travelling solo.
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