Picture this: you’ve just arrived at Chatuchak Market on a Sunday afternoon and are making your way towards to the market. As soon as you get off the train, you are immediately assaulted by a variety of sounds, smells and colors, all competing for your attention. It is hectic and chaotic and not mention, hot. Then you remember, you are at Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok, one of the largest weekend markets in the world.
Discovering Chatuchak Market is an experience not to be missed. With over fifteen thousand stalls divided into 27 sections, plan on spending the better part of a full day to discover the largest market in Thailand.
Flickr/chinnian
Photo: Authentic Food Quest
Getting Oriented at Chatuchak Weekend Market
Chatuchak Weekend Market is also known to locals as “JJ market”. Getting there is pretty easy. You can take the BTS Skytrain to Mo Chit Station or the MRT Subway and exit at Chatuchak Park Station or Kamphaeng Phet station. You can also get there by bus, taxi or Uber, though taking public transportation is advisable.
Chatuchak MRT station (Photo: Authentic Food Quest)
When you get the market, stop at the entrance and get a free map of the place. If you are traveling with a group, you will want to have a meeting point should you get separated.
The most comfortable meeting spot is at Gate 1, near the scooter parking area, with a huge sign labeled “Meeting Point.” This large space is covered to protect from the Bangkok heat and has wood carved tables and benches where you can spread out and relax. Another easy meeting spot is near the Clock Tower in the central alley.
Picture of Meeting Point (Photo: Authentic Food Quest
How to Shop Around
In a space that is the size of five football fields, Chatuchak Weekend Market will feel overwhelming at first. Organize your time based on your shopping needs. You may need to “dig around” a little bit to weed out the touristy trinkets.
Start on the outside of the market and wander your way down the alleys. Take your time, navigate the crowds and take in the full experience. When the heat gets unbearable, which it will, duck inside one of the numbered covered alleys and continue the exploration.
Flickr/phuongkim1981
Flickr/seanchicoine
Clothing and Accessories
Clothes dominate and this by far one of the largest sections at Chatuchak Market. Sections 2 to 6 and sections 10 to 26 are filled with styles for all fashion tastes.
From stylish and independent wear, to Thai souvenirs and children’s clothes, you will find everything you need for gifts or for yourself.
Photo: Authentic Food Quest
Flickr/phuongkim1981
Flickr/phuongkim1981
Flickr/Hector Garcia
As you look around one thing you will notice are tourists pushing around large pieces of luggage. That’s for all the shopping. Don’t be afraid to bring a large empty suitcase if shopping is your priority.
Houseware and Home Decorations
You will find houseware and home decor sprinkled throughout the market. Though the main areas are sections: 1, 3, 4, 7 and 8.
If you are looking for unique art pieces, head to section 7 for gallery displays and artists at work. You will find everything from contemporary art pieces to Thai inspired art. You may even see artists capturing the likeness of great figures.
Artist working on the late King’s portrait (Photo: Authentic Food Quest)
The range of products vary. Cookware, lacquerware, ceramics, glass and more, are available at different price points.
Flickr/Jirka Matousek
Flickr/Jirka Matousek
Flickr/Guillermo Munoz Lomas
display of different ceramics like vase and tea pots
What to Eat
There is no of shortage of food stalls and vendors throughout the market. When hunger strikes, choose from several Thai style snacks and dishes. Grilling on a stick, you can choose from pork, chicken, squid or octopus. If you want something a little more on the healthy side, try the freshly cut up fruits, and try something new, like guava fruit.
Flickr/phuongkim1981
Flickr/phuongkim1981
Flickr/Kent Wang
One of the liveliest stalls at the market is Viva 8 bar and restaurant that serves up cocktails, and paella from giant pans to loud techno beats. This is the perfect spot to end your day of shopping as you take in the music from the live DJ.
This is also one of the best people watching spots at Chatuchak Weekend Market, though it can be tough finding a seat at Viva 8. If you’re lucky enough to snag a seat, enjoy a plate of authentic Spanish paella for 150 baht (approx $4.30) and a cocktail or beer from 90 baht to 200 baht (approx $2.60 to $5.80).
Facebook/Viva8JJ
Facebook/Viva8JJ
What to Drink
To stay hydrated and quench your thirst, don’t hesitate to try any of the delicious fruit juices you will see around. Thailand is known for it’s fresh squeezed juices and Chatuchak has vendors all over the market strategically placed at the main entrances and by the alleys.
You can get several types of juices, including coconut, guava, watermelon, carrot, papaya, mango, orange juice and any number of combinations of fresh fruit juices. Most fruit juices are sold in bottles that range between 20 baht to 30 baht (about $.059 cents to $0.87 cents).
Be aware that sugar is sometimes added to the juices. If you don’t want any sugar added to your juice, the most vendors know enough English to understand “no sugar, please.”
Thai Foot Massages
You already know Thailand is famous for Thai massages, and there is no better place to enjoy a foot massage after a long day of being on your feet. Choose from the many vendors you will see around and treat yourself to an inexpensive and relaxing foot massage for 150 baht for 30mins (approx $4.30 USD) or 250 baht for 1 hour (approx $7.26 USD)
Photo: Authentic Food Quest
Exploring one of the biggest weekend markets is a wonderful experience of lifetime. If you are in Bangkok, take the time to spend a day at Chatuchak Market exploring the multiple shopping options, local cuisines while interacting with the locals. Without question, this market is worth a visit.
Tips: To Know Before You Go to Chatuchak Weekend Market
• Stay Hydrated. Bangkok is one of the hottest cities in the world and it’s important to stay hydrated while exploring the over 15,000 booths at the market. The best time to visit Chatuchak is around 10am when most of the shops open. It will also be a little cooler and less crowded. Water is inexpensive and costs about 10 baht (approx $0.30 USD) for small bottles or 20 baht (approx $0.60 USD) for large 1.5 liter bottles.
• Bargain for the Best Prices. Unless it is clearly stated, don’t be afraid to haggle for the best prices. Smile and start by asking for 40% - 50% off the marked price and negotiate from there. If you are not happy with the price you are getting, walk away. More than likely you will find another stall close by offering the same item. Before you walk away, be sure to note the stall number in case you need to come back.
• Beware of Pickpockets: As in any place where there are large crowds, you want to be careful with your personal belongings. At the peak hours where the crowd is neck to neck, pay particular attention to your belongings, money and electronics.
• Take Advantage of the Worldwide Shipping Services. If you find yourself shopping for more than you expected, DHL or TNT shipping companies will get your packages home for you. Shipping prices vary depending on size, weight and location. Both DHL and TNT will take care of the customs clearance for you and will give you a 10 digit tracking number so you can follow your package home.
• Friday is a little known option. If you don’t like crowds or can’t make it on a Saturday or Sunday, Friday evening is a little known option. The published hours of the market are 9.00 am to 6.00 pm on Saturday and Sunday. However, the market is also open on Friday’s for wholesalers from 6:00pm to midnight. You will be able to do your normal shopping here avoiding the weekend crowds and daytime heat.
Directions and Hours
Take the BTS SkyTrain to Mo Chit Station or MRT Subway to Chatuchak Park Station or Kamphaeng Phet station.
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