Chiang Mai Night Market
Every Sunday evening, Rachadamnoen Road in the heart of Chiang Mai's old city transforms into one of Thailand's most celebrated walking streets. From 5pm, the road closes entirely to traffic, allowing vendors and visitors to spill across the full width of the street in both directions. Stalls stretch for a considerable distance, selling handmade crafts, clothing, jewellery, and souvenirs alongside an impressive variety of street food and fresh produce — all at prices that regularly impress visitors. The atmosphere is lively and social, drawing a mix of locals, expats, and travellers. Highlights from regular visitors include affordable clothing, handcrafted rings and accessories, and fresh-made drinks such as avocado smoothie. The scale of the market is notably large, and the cool Chiang Mai evenings — temperatures can sit around 19 to 20 degrees Celsius in cooler months — make browsing genuinely comfortable. Good to know: this market runs on Sundays only, from 17:00 to 22:00, and should not be confused with the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, which operates nightly in a separate location outside the old city walls. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as covering the full length of the street involves a fair amount of ground. Arriving closer to opening time helps avoid the heaviest crowds.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Chiang Mai Night Market, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
This enchanting place is a haven for travelers seeking to enhance their social lives. With its stunning scenery, it draws visitors from all walks of life. The vibrant atmosphere is alive with laughter and camaraderie, making it a perfect spot for meeting new friends and creating lasting memories. Food lovers will be delighted by the diverse culinary offerings. From street food stalls to gourmet restaurants, the flavors are rich and varied, promising an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Whether you're exploring the local markets, enjoying a sunset by the beach, or participating in lively cultural events, this destination is filled with joy and excitement at every turn. It's a place where adventure meets community, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to enrich their travel
Went 2x at Sunday night market street. Very cheap very good many many things so interesting. Bought many clothes, good and cheap food and even one nice ring… and I love avocado smoothie! Rating: 9/10. By the way, I also have a travel agency in Peru (Machupicchu)— you can find me on Instagram at @dopkertravel if you travel to Peru and need any help!
One of the original night markets in Thailand and certainly one of the best. I won't go into further details which are already outlined in many other reviews, just read a few of those and enjoy my pictures. It is so vast that it is better see it a number of different times and just take in one section at a time.
Location Info
Rachadamnoen Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, ThailandVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
15°C – 36°C(59°F – 97°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January & Songkran (April)
Getting there
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) has direct flights from Bangkok (1 hr), Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Overnight sleeper trains from Bangkok take ~12 hrs.
Getting around
- •Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks)
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Motorbike rental (฿150–250/day)
- •Tuk-tuks (negotiate price first)
Where to stay near Chiang Mai Night Market
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Tips for Visiting Markets & Shopping
Haggle at Markets, Not Malls
Prices at market stalls are negotiable — start at 50–60% of the asking price and meet in the middle. Fixed-price shops and malls don't haggle. Smile and keep it friendly; aggressive bargaining is considered rude.
Arrive Early or Late
Vendors believe the first sale of the day is lucky — you'll often get a better deal if you arrive right when the market opens. Late in the evening, sellers may also discount to avoid packing unsold goods.
Be Cautious with Tailors
Bangkok has excellent tailors, but also many tourist traps. Avoid anyone offering suspiciously cheap suits or who approaches you on the street. Ask your hotel for recommendations, read reviews, and always get two fittings.
Also Popular in Chiang Mai
Doi Suthep Temple
A sacred mountaintop Buddhist temple from 1383, offering a golden chedi and sweeping views over Chiang Mai.
Tha Phae Gate
Chiang Mai's iconic eastern Old City gate, a restored Lanna-era landmark surrounded by a lively public square.
Wat Phra That Doi Kham
A hilltop Buddhist temple southwest of Chiang Mai, free to enter and genuinely peaceful year-round.
Central Chiangmai
Chiang Mai's largest modern mall, with two food halls, designer boutiques, and a grocery store along the superhighway.
Similar Markets & Shopping Across Thailand
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centralwOrld
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Asiatique The Riverfront
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Siam Paragon
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Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
15°C – 36°C(59°F – 97°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January & Songkran (April)
Getting there
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) has direct flights from Bangkok (1 hr), Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Overnight sleeper trains from Bangkok take ~12 hrs.
Getting around
- •Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks)
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Motorbike rental (฿150–250/day)
- •Tuk-tuks (negotiate price first)
Where to stay near Chiang Mai Night Market
Find hotels in Chiang Mai on the booking sites travellers trust most.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.