Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market: Tips for Visiting

Hands down one of the best markets in Thailand is the Chiang Mai Sunday night market. Situated on Tha Phae Walking Street, the street comes to life every Sunday night with talented local artisans, street food vendors and so much more.

Watch the street slowly pack out during the night with thousands of locals and tourists flocking to the markets to pick up the best bargains and load up on delicious and freshly made food.

Moreover, this is easily one of the best markets in Thailand, and is absolutely worth a visit! Continue reading my travel guide for all the best tips for visiting and everything you need to know for the ultimate Sunday night adventure!

Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market

Where is Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is in the northern province of Thailand in the mountainous region. Moreover, it’s a 1-hour flight or an 8.5-hour bus ride from Bangkok.

It’s a part of the Mueang Chiang Mai District and has a population of over 1.1 million people. Therefore, making it one of the larger cities in Thailand.

When Is the Market On?

The Chiang Mai Sunday night market only runs on Sundays from 5-10 PM. However, this is more than enough time to enjoy all the incredible things on offer.

Nonetheless, there are a few other markets that operate during other times of the week, and I’ve mentioned them further down the post.

How to Get to the Market

The market is easily accessible from anywhere in Chiang Mai. So, if you aren’t staying close to the walking street, you can easily grab a tuk tuk or motorbike taxi over to the market.

Moreover, the market is situated on Tha Phae Walking street. And, the easiest way to access this market is from the Eastern side next to Pratu Tha Phae gate.

The streets surrounding the market are patrolled and there is plenty of security around making the market feel ultra-safe!

Tip: Wear some comfy shoes as you will need to walk for quite some time to explore the entire market!

Address: Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market, Rachadamnoen Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

What’s on Offer at the Market

There is a huge range of items on offer at the market, and I picked up some really cool stuff while wandering the walking street.

Firstly, there are loads of handmade goods by talented local artisans, these include artwork, body products such as soap, natural medicinal products, food stalls, handmade jewellery, clothing, accessories and so much more.

Secondly, there are lots of street food stalls offering quick bites or tasty meals. So, you can try a few different things while wandering around. And, all of these are seriously cheap! Can you really go past sushi rolls for 5 Baht!?

Thirdly, there are loads of accessories, clothing, shoes and other trinkets on offer. And, what’s better, is that this market isn’t filled with tonnes of junk… like most markets tend to be! So, you may actually stumble upon some unique items that pique your interest!

What to Buy at the Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market

There is a huge range of items on offer at the Sunday night market, but these are some of my top recommendations.

Street Food

Street food is aplenty and there is a huge range of options. Besides, this is the perfect opportunity to try a few different things as you wander the street. Or, head into the small food court area set up by the Wat Phan On Buddhist temple.

I recommend trying some of the small bottles of fresh fruit juice, sushi rolls, curries, and barbequed skewers.

Tip: Be sure to try a freshly made Pad Thai! These are always the best at street food vendors.

Handmade Art

I highly recommend supporting some of the local artists and purchasing some handmade goods. Besides, there are a heap of trinkets and artwork items that you can purchase. From large canvas paintings to small hand-carved decorations, there are loads of products to choose from.

Additionally, I recommend checking out the jewellery sections. There is some seriously cool unique jewellery made with waxed cotton on offer! I couldn’t resist picking up a couple of sets of earrings!

Natural Products

Wow, there are some gorgeous handmade soaps and body products, and if you’re running a little low on toiletries, this is definitely the time to stock up! Besides, these products make beautiful gifts for family or friends back home. Or, build up your own personal collection of lovely products to use at home.

Clothing and Accessories

Finally, I came across some really unique clothing and some quality footwear while wandering the night market. So, this is the perfect time to pick up a new pair of sneakers or a lovely new bag!

Souvenirs and Trinkets

Last but not least, there are loads of small souvenirs and trinkets on offer. Of course, these types of items are available at all kinds of markets, however, I found these items to have a unique charm to them at this market.

I picked up a lovely wooden keychain that was handmade with a silver elephant. I think these make a great gift or memorabilia for your time in Thailand. Besides, it was ultra cheap at only 40 Thai Baht!

Be sure to check out some of the souvenirs as you never know what you might come across!

Tips for Visiting the Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market

There are a number of things I recommend for visiting this night market, so let’s jump into it.

Firstly, you may notice that a few of the locals walk with their bags on their front. Take note of this and follow suit. Place your belongings on your front half to avoid pickpocketing or snatching. I feel like this market is quite safe to wander, but it’s best to stay alert. And, if you can, pack minimally! A small bag like a fanny pack or bumbag is really all you need.

Secondly, I highly recommend wearing comfortable closed-toe walking shoes. You will need to do a fair bit of walking up and down the street to see all the stalls and there are a lot of people. You wouldn’t want to stub your toe or have someone stand on your foot!

Thirdly, bring enough cash. You won’t need heaps of cash as everything in this market is quite cheap, but it might be worth bringing at least 500 Thai Baht. Moreover, this gives you the chance to pick up a couple of small souvenirs and some street food. However, if you plan to buy a little more, I recommend bringing at least 1000 Thai Baht.

Finally, be sure to get there early! The market gets extremely busy from 7-10 PM, so I recommend visiting anytime before then. Nonetheless, it’s fun to be amongst the chaos, but if you want the easiest shopping experience, I recommend heading there early.

Other Markets in Chiang Mai

There are a few other markets and things happening in Chiang Mai that are also worth checking out. And, these are great to check out if you are spending a few days in the city, or can’t make it to the Sunday market. So, these include:

Chiang Mai Gate Market
Rajavithi Night Market
Thing Park Night Market
Anusarn Market
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, I strongly believe that the Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market is one of the best markets in Thailand. There are loads of cool items on offer and the prices are irresistibly cheap! What’s not to love!?

Besides, I think the atmosphere is incredible and it’s awesome to see the locals going about their routines; It’s a great cultural experience.

For more information on markets in Chiang Mai, feel free to check out this website for more details!