

Tha Phae Walking Street
Every Sunday evening, Rachadamnoen Road transforms into one of Chiang Mai's most celebrated weekly markets, drawing locals and visitors alike to browse an extensive stretch of stalls selling handmade crafts, clothing, silverwork, and affordable souvenirs. The market runs from 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM, giving visitors several hours to explore at a relaxed pace before the road reopens to traffic. The atmosphere is lively and distinctly local, with live music performances and light displays adding to the energy of the evening. Food and drink vendors are plentiful throughout, offering a wide range of Thai dishes, snacks, and desserts that make it easy to graze while shopping. The market connects to Chiang Mai's broader walking street circuit, and visitors may recognise some vendors and performers from other weekly markets around the city, such as Wua Lai. A practical note for visitors: the market operates on Sundays only, so timing a stay in Chiang Mai to include a Sunday night is worth planning around. Arriving closer to opening time is advisable for those who want to explore without heavy crowds, as the street becomes significantly busier as the evening progresses. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the full length of the market covers a considerable distance on foot.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Tha Phae Walking Street, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
Of course a must-see when visiting the majesric city of Chiang Mai! Very lively, beautiful square and always decorated nicely for the current events. Delicous breakfasts, lunch, dinner and dessert at every corner. Shops to buy anything you'd ever need, and tons of polite and good people, both locals and other tourists. The gate itself really shows you how old this city is, and they've taken well care of this landmark.
Very busy Sunday night market. It connects to Chiang Mai walking street as well. A lot of craft stalls, clothes stall, silversmith, even massage. Saw the same vendors and performers from Wua Lai too. The temples on the road are open as market as well, it is where most of the food stalls are.
If you happen to be in Chiangmai on Sunday, this walking street is a must. You will find so many delicious foods and drinks. Tons of authentic and affordable souvenirs! Live concerts and light shows are everywhere for free along the street!
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 Tha Phae Walking Street
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We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
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

Chatuchak Weekend Market
A sprawling open-air weekend market with 15,000+ stalls across 35 acres, selling everything imaginable.

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 Tha Phae Walking Street
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.