Kad Suan Kaew
Kad Suan Kaew is Chiang Mai's original shopping mall — a sprawling 1990s complex on Huay Kaew Road between the Old City's northwest corner and Nimman. It long ago ceded the fashion crowd to Maya and Central, and that's exactly its charm: cheap local food courts, bargain clothing and phone-repair stalls, and everyday shops fill its cavernous floors at a fraction of the polish (and prices) of the newer malls. Come for budget shopping, unhurried old-school mall atmosphere, and one of the most walkable locations of any Chiang Mai shopping centre.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Kad Suan Kaew, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
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.
Wat Chedi Luang
A towering 14th-century ruined chedi at the heart of Chiang Mai's Old City, open daily until late.
Kad Suan Kaew: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kad Suan Kaew worth visiting?
Kad Suan Kaew holds a 4.1★ rating from 1,238 Google reviews — a strong rating for markets & shopping in Chiang Mai.
When is the best time to visit Kad Suan Kaew?
The best months to visit Chiang Mai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January & Songkran (April) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: March – May (smoke & heat).
Where is Kad Suan Kaew located?
Kad Suan Kaew is at 21 Huay Kaew Rd, Tambon Su Thep, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, in Chiang Mai. Getting around Chiang Mai: Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks); Grab (available in city centre).
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 Kad Suan Kaew
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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.
Nearby Places
Collectors Store
A curated vintage clothing store in Chiang Mai with well-known brands and eclectic finds.
One Nimman
A hip open-air shopping complex on Nimmanahaeminda Road blending indie retail, cafes, and street food.
Chang Phuak Market
A lively northern Thai night market near Chiang Mai's old city, known for street food and budget-friendly eats.
Think Park Night Market
A stylish evening market on Nimman Road with handmade goods, street food, and a distinct Japanese-influenced atmosphere.
Similar Markets & Shopping Across Thailand
Chatuchak Weekend Market
A sprawling open-air weekend market with 15,000+ stalls across 35 acres, selling everything imaginable.
centralwOrld
One of Bangkok's largest shopping complexes, offering premium retail, dining, and entertainment in the city's heart.
Asiatique The Riverfront
A sprawling open-air riverside destination combining shopping, dining, and entertainment along the Chao Phraya River.
Siam Paragon
A landmark Bangkok mall blending luxury retail, dining, entertainment, and an aquarium under one roof.
Where to stay near Kad Suan Kaew
Find hotels in Chiang Mai on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Free cancellation on most rooms
- No booking fees
- Compare live prices
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Agoda
Best rates in Asia
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Hotels.com Rewards
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
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)