This Chatuchak Market Guide covers everything you need to know to visit the biggest and most popular market in Bangkok, including how to get there, what to eat, and what to buy.
When looking for local things to do in Bangkok, visiting the markets is high on many lists. There are local food markets like the Phra Khanong Market or romantic experiences like the Asiatique Market, one of the best night markets in Bangkok. However, Chatuchak Market is the biggest market in Bangkok, with over 15,000 vendors to explore across 27 different sections.
Open primarily on Saturdays and Sundays, it draws both locals and tourists, creating a bustling atmosphere with a unique blend of vibrant colors, sounds, and aromas. Visitors can find almost anything here, including handcrafted goods, rare collectibles, and souvenirs.
Chatuchak is not only a shopping destination but also a cultural experience, providing a taste of Thai life through its cuisine, crafts, and interactions with local vendors. Despite its size, the market is organized, with maps available to help navigate the various sections, making it easier for visitors to explore and discover its hidden gems.
Chatuchak Market Guide
When is Chatuchak Weekend Market open?
Chatuchak Market, in Bangkok, Thailand, is a weekend market – Open every Friday evening from 6 pm to midnight and every Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm. Most stalls are open from 11 am to 4.30 pm whilst many stay open beyond 6 pm.
You will find that some stalls are open during the week as well but the market isn’t officially open until the weekend.
When to visit Chatuchak Market?
Head here early to avoid the crowds and the heat, or visit in the late afternoon on a Friday when the temperature is beginning to cool. If you can, avoid the monsoon season from June to October. We prefer to head here at around 10 am when the stalls are starting to open up and the temperature is still low.
How to get to Chatuchak Market
There are a few different ways to get to Chatuchak market.
Taxi – The easiest route is to take a taxi but, as always, download the GRAB app and use this to order a taxi back to your hotel to avoid taxi drivers who won’t put on the meter.
BTS – Alternatively, you can catch the BTS Skytrain to Mo Chi Station, take exit no.1, and follow the crowd to the stalls.
MRT – catch the MRT to Kamphaeng Phet, the nearest station to the main entrance of the market.
What can I buy in the Chatuchak market?
The market is massive and has so many different things to offer at very cheap prices. The market is split into sections, with areas for homeware, handicrafts, silks, clothing, food and beauty.
The market has over 15,000 stalls and 11,505 vendors, so you are bound to find something you like. This is also a great place to buy souvenirs for cheaper prices than other tourist areas.
- Sections 2, 3 and 4: Hipster, quirky fashion
- Sections 5, 6, 10-16, 18, 20-23: Accessories and Fashion
- Sections 2-5, 7-10, 15, 17, 19-22, 25 and Chatuchak Plaza: Homeware and decor
- Sections 2, 6-10, 19, 21, 23, 24, 27: Art, souvenirs and handicrafts
- Sections 7, 9, 11, 24: Beauty and spa items such as candles, soaps and diffusers
- Sections 9, 11, 13, 15, Chatuchak Plaza: Pet accessorises
- Sections 1-5, 7, 26: Plants and gardening
- Sections 1, 8, 19, Chatuchak Plaza: Ancient treasures, books and instruments.
- Sections 17-19, 27: FOOD!
Chatuchak Market Guide Map
Should I negotiate prices?
Generally, the rule is, if items have a price on them, don’t negotiate as these are the set prices – if the item doesn’t have a price, negotiate. If prices seem a bit too high, it is worth moving on and seeing if you can find the same item elsewhere, preferably with a price tag.
If you are buying multiples of an item, you may be able to negotiate a price – for example, we bought 4 scarves for the price of three.
Can I eat at Chatuchak Market?
There are lots of different types of food available at Chatuchak Market including grilled meat, Thai Crispy pancakes, pork belly, and traditional Thai Milk Tea.
There are some sit-down spots too, so if you want to relax in a bit of shade with a cold drink and a bite to eat, there are definitely options for you. When we visited with my in-laws, we headed to the market around 10am and then stopped for a light lunch midway around the market; this made it a little more manageable to explore in the hot weather.
Tips for visiting Chatuchak Market
- Get There Early
Chatuchak Market is popular and gets crowded, especially later in the day when both locals and tourists flood the aisles. Arriving early, ideally around 9 a.m., lets you explore the stalls in relative calm and make purchases before items sell out.
Plus, the heat plays a factor into your visit to the market. The temperature in Bangkok rises throughout the day, and it can become quite hot and humid by midday. Going early means you’ll also avoid the heat, making shopping and exploring more comfortable.
- Plan Your Route and Prioritize Sections
Chatuchak is massive, with over 27 distinct sections. Each section specializes in different goods – from clothing and accessories to plants, antiques, pets, and art.
Getting familiar with the layout in advance or picking up a market map can help you plan your route and ensure you see the sections that interest you most.
Some of the popular sections include Section 2 for antiques, Section 7 for art, and Section 9 for clothing and souvenirs.
Make a list of priority sections to avoid wandering aimlessly and missing out on what you want most.
- Dress Comfortably
The market can be warm and crowded, so dress in light, breathable fabrics. Comfortable clothes will make a big difference in your shopping experience.
Comfortable footwear is a must. With such a vast area to cover, you’ll be doing a lot of walking, so opt for cushioned, closed-toe shoes or supportive sandals.
Also, make sure to bring a water bottle, and don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses if you’re sensitive to the sun.
- Practice Smart Bargaining
Bargaining is common at Chatuchak, but remember to be polite and realistic.
Start by offering a price slightly lower than you’re willing to pay, and allow room for the vendor to counter. A friendly smile and respectful attitude go a long way.
Some vendors may not be open to bargaining, especially for unique or delicate items. If you really want something, be prepared to pay the asking price.
Also, don’t haggle excessively over small amounts, as it’s important to respect the vendors’ livelihood.
- Keep Cash Handy
Most vendors at Chatuchak prefer cash, and while some may accept credit cards, it’s less common. Bring small denominations of Thai Baht to make transactions easier and faster.
The ATMs in and around the market can run out of cash due to high demand, especially on busy weekends. Withdraw cash beforehand if possible to avoid long queues and unnecessary fees.
- Use the MRT or BTS for Easy Access
The easiest way to reach Chatuchak is by using Bangkok’s efficient public transit system. Take the BTS Skytrain to Mo Chit Station or the MRT subway to Chatuchak Park Station. Both stations are a short walk from the market entrance.
Bangkok traffic can be unpredictable, especially on weekends. Public transit is usually faster and more reliable than taxis or tuk-tuks, plus it’s more affordable and convenient during peak times.
- Take Breaks and Enjoy the Food
Chatuchak Market has a fantastic selection of Thai street food, so plan to take regular breaks to sample different dishes. You’ll find everything from Thai iced tea and coconut ice cream to grilled meats, mango sticky rice, and pad Thai.
Some areas of the market have shaded seating or air-conditioned cafes, which can be a lifesaver on hot days. If you need a break from the heat, find one of these spots to recharge before continuing.
- Stay Safe and Secure Your Belongings
Chatuchak can get crowded, and like any busy market, there’s a risk of pickpocketing. Keep your valuables secure in a crossbody bag or backpack, ideally with hidden zippers or pockets.
If you’re traveling in a group, set a meeting point in case you get separated. It’s easy to get lost among the hundreds of stalls and crowded pathways.
- Shop Responsibly – Think About Customs and Sustainability
Some items, like rare plants, antiques, or certain animal products, may not be allowed through customs in your home country. Check the rules and restrictions of your country’s customs authority before buying anything questionable.
Many items at Chatuchak are made locally and support small businesses, but be mindful of sustainability. Avoid buying items made from endangered animal products, and try to buy from vendors who use eco-friendly materials.
- Prepare for the Unexpected – Go With an Open Mind
Chatuchak is a place of endless variety, so be open to discovering unexpected treasures. Many visitors find unique, handcrafted items they never planned on buying, which makes the experience even more exciting.
Embrace the vibrant atmosphere, sample new foods, and enjoy interacting with the locals. Chatuchak is not just a shopping trip; it’s a cultural experience and a window into Thai lifestyle and craftsmanship.
- Bring a Backpack or Reusable Bag
A lightweight backpack or a foldable, reusable bag is handy for carrying your purchases, especially if you plan to buy multiple items. Avoid plastic bags whenever possible to reduce waste.
A backpack distributes the weight evenly, which is helpful for a long day of shopping. However, keep it in front of you in crowded areas to prevent any risk of pickpocketing.
- Bring a Portable Charger and SIM Card
Having a local SIM card with data is helpful for using maps, translating with locals, and looking up additional information on the go. Wi-Fi is limited, so don’t rely on it.
A portable charger can keep your phone powered for photos, navigation, and online payments if you’re using an e-wallet app. Chatuchak can be a long day, and having backup power ensures you don’t miss any part of the experience.
Chatuchak Market Quick Tips
- Check your home country’s rules – not all countries will allow certain items, so check your country’s rules and regulations before buying anything, especially concerning food.
- Deposit boxes – There are deposit boxes in Chatuchak Plaza that can be used to store large bags or suitcases.
- Bring cash – There are ATM’s in the market but it is worth bringing cash regardless to avoid crowded ATM’s and extra charges. It is also worth bringing smaller change; vendors won’t be impressed if you try buying a 40 baht souvenir with a 1000 baht note.
- Shipping – Like a piece of furniture? There are shipping services in section 6.
- Do not smoke – It is prohibited inside the market.
- Keep hydrated – Keep drinking water whilst you are in the market, it can get hot and stuffy.
- Toilets – Toilets are limited and come with a small charge. You can find toilets near gates 1, 2, and 3 as well as sections 2, 4, 7, and 27.
- Download the app – You heard me right, there is a Chatuchak Market Guide app – available on IOS and Android. This map will help you find the nearest facilities and how to plan your time at the market.
- Don’t buy the pets – Sounds obvious but Chatuchak Market is said to be the place of the most illegal animals in Thailand. Do not buy animals unless you have thoroughly done your research.
- Shade, hat, or sunscreen – There are many areas of shade in the market so try your best to stay in the shade when you can. It is best to either bring/buy a hat or wear sunscreen too, to avoid getting burnt when you are not in the shade.
Helpful Resources
Travel essentials:
- We LOVE this camera for our travel photography.
- For a cheap, easy and compact camera, we use this to vlog and take photographs.
- We use this travel drone (but make sure to check drone laws in your chosen destination first).
- This is our favourite travel insurance because it covers so many activities and travel situations that could arise on longer trips but also offer year coverage.
What to pack
- No matter where we travel to, I always take these trusty hand sanitizers and a mini first aid kit.
- We love these toiletry bags (especially great for smaller bathrooms) and choose a laptop bag like this as our hand luggage.
- We keep our devices charged on long travel days with these lightweight battery packs and bring these worldwide travel adaptors on all our trips.
- I still struggle not to overpack so stick to using an expandable suitcase like this and always take my trusty luggage scales to avoid being charged at the airport.
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I fell in love with certain things and didn’t get a card from the clothing vendor
Is there any way to find out how to find the clothing on social media ?