Chiang Mai can be a bargain hunters' paradise. With four major night markets operating at different times in the city, shoppers can be spoiled for choices of souvenirs and handicrafts in the night markets of Chiang Mai. However, the price you pay for these treasures can differ, depending on how skilled you are at bargaining.
We’ll offer some winning tips for bargaining like a local in the colorful Saturday, Sunday and all-week night markets of Chiang Mai. The first thing to keep in mind is that shopping should always be an enjoyable activity. You should start every bargaining conversation with a smile and a greeting for the vendor and keep the interaction fun and lighthearted.
As you browse the market, nod to the vendors, ask before handling the items on display, and treat the items with care. Although many vendors these days have electronic payment methods available (indicated by a posted QR code), it’s always better to carry cash for smaller items and to have as close to exact change as possible.
Once you've greeted the vendor politely, you can get down to haggling. You might start by offering as little as half of the posted or asking price just to see the level of the vendor's interest in haggling. The game is on if they reply with a smile and a significant drop in the posted price! From there, you can increase your price in increments, and they will drop their price accordingly until you both agree on a final price.
You may be wondering about the language barrier. However, every vendor in a night market has a calculator that you can pass back and forth. Or just use the calculator app on your phone.
If you’re unwilling to pay the vendor’s lowest price, simply thank the vendor, smile and walk away. You may be surprised when the vendor calls you back and offers you a "special" price just for you. It's polite to buy the item after a period of bargaining; don't just haggle for the sake of haggling.
Some of the popular items to buy in the Saturday, Sunday and all-week night markets in Chiang Mai include exquisite handcrafted silver jewelry from the hill tribes around Chiang Mai. You’ll also find a wide variety of colorful wool fabric clothing in the distinctive hill tribe patterns. Some other treasures to look for include, Pewter and metalware objects and wooden carvings.
Be sure to multi-task by sampling the delicious foods of Northern Thailand while you browse the markets. You can even pick up some local packaged snacks to bring home.
Some of the most popular and well-known night markets in the city include:
This walking street night market appears weekly on Saturday in the Old Town section of Chiang Mai. Known mainly for its excellent selection of silver jewelry, the market is also well-regarded for its variety of Northern Thai food.
The Sunday Walking Street in the Old Town section of the city is one of the most popular night markets in the city. You’ll find a large variety of handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing, and electronic goods, as well as food vendors, pop-up bars and instant massage areas.
Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar runs every night from 5 PM until late. The market sprawls out for about two blocks from the intersection of Chang Khlan Road and Loi Khro Road. This market has everything you can imagine in the way of souvenirs and handicrafts. This is also the place to come if you're looking for clothing, shoes, luggage, sunglasses, homewares and furniture.
Warorot Market is a must-see for food-loving visitors to Chiang Mai. Alongside an impressive collection of fresh produce, meats, poultry, and fish, you'll find plenty of authentic northern-style foods, including northern-style sausages, crispy pork skin and red and green chili dip. Upstairs, you'll find stalls selling low-priced clothing and accessories.
While exploring Chiang Mai’s night markets, the perfect place to stay is at Horizon Village & Resort amid the beautiful greenery and ponds of Tweechol Botanic Garden.
Our resort has exquisite furnishings and décor in the ancient Lanna style of Northern Thailand. We also offer an authentic Khantoke dinner that immerses guests in Lanna traditions. You'll be served a delicious meal of spicy curries, aromatic soups, and savory dips on a low traditional toke table while being entertained with live traditional Lanna-style music and dance performances.
Book a stay at Horizon Village & Resort for easy access to Chiang Mai’s night markets and stay in a beautiful resort that also offers a cultural experience.
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