Chiang Rai Night Bazaar
Open every evening from 6pm to 11pm, this well-established night bazaar is one of Chiang Rai's most popular gathering spots for both locals and visitors. While it has grown more tourist-oriented over the years, it retains a genuine atmosphere and remains one of the most affordable and accessible ways to spend an evening in the city. Shoppers will find a broad range of stalls selling clothing, jewellery, handicrafts, and souvenirs, with enough variety to suit most budgets. The food area is a particular draw, offering a wide selection of Thai street food alongside hotpot and grill options. A central seating area with a stage hosts live music and cultural performances throughout the evening, giving the space a social, festive feel. The layout is compact enough to navigate easily, yet large enough to keep things interesting across multiple visits. A practical note for first-time visitors: arriving closer to opening time around 6pm tends to be more comfortable before crowds build up, and it is worth setting aside a full evening rather than treating it as a quick stop. Bargaining is expected at most stalls, so do not hesitate to negotiate on clothing and souvenirs. The market is within easy walking distance of central Chiang Rai, making it a straightforward addition to any evening itinerary.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Chiang Rai Night Bazaar, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
The Chiang Rai Night Market is a local institution: a large, daily market that, while it has become quite touristy in recent years, remains one of the best places in town for an inexpensive, satisfying meal. You’ll find almost everything here, from fried insects and spicy tom yum to grilled meat dishes and classic Thai comfort food. Because of its popularity, prices are a few baht higher than at very local neighbourhood spots, but that’s easy to live with given the sheer variety of food gathered in one place. It’s a convenient, lively option and still very good value overall.
We absolutely loved this place! It’s a great combination of hotpot and grill. We ordered the set which came with generous portions of chicken, beef, and lots of fresh veggies. The food was incredibly fresh and very filling. The owner/staff was super nice and welcoming, which made the experience even better. We enjoyed it so much the first night that we had to come back again the next evening. Highly recommended!
Loved visiting the night bazaar. Lots of different stalls selling authentic items. More food stalls than you could ever wish for and entertainment on the stage all evening too. The bar area was very busy and we found getting a drink quite difficult and timely. Plenty of tables for people to sit and eat at and overall quite enjoyable albeit very busy throughout the time we were there.
Location Info
WR4M+5M2, Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, ThailandVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – September
Avg. temperature
14°C – 35°C(57°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Mae Fah Luang Airport (CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). Bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. Scenic Golden Triangle road trip from Chiang Mai.
Getting around
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Songthaews
- •Motorbike rental (฿200/day)
- •Car hire (for Golden Triangle & hill tribes)
Where to stay near Chiang Rai Night Bazaar
Find hotels in Chiang Rai 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.
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.
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Golden Triangle
Where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge — a historically significant landmark above the Mekong River.
Wat Huay Pla Kang
A vast Buddhist complex in Chiang Rai featuring a 79-metre Guan Yin statue and a climbable 9-floor pagoda.
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Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – September
Avg. temperature
14°C – 35°C(57°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Mae Fah Luang Airport (CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). Bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. Scenic Golden Triangle road trip from Chiang Mai.
Getting around
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Songthaews
- •Motorbike rental (฿200/day)
- •Car hire (for Golden Triangle & hill tribes)
Where to stay near Chiang Rai Night Bazaar
Find hotels in Chiang Rai 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.