The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar stretches roughly 1 km along Chang Khlan Road, just east of the Old City, and is northern Thailand's largest and most famous night market. Hundreds of stalls sell elephant pants, silverwork, wood carvings, hill-tribe handicrafts and street food, while covered complexes like Kalare and Anusarn add sit-down food courts. It opens in the early evening and runs late into the night, making it easy to combine shopping and dinner in one place.
A hub for Thai souvenirs: elephant pants, sarongs, silver jewelry and carved wooden elephants
Large food courts at Kalare and Anusarn markets — northern specialties like khao soi and sai ua, plus seafood BBQ
About a 15-minute walk south from Tha Phae Gate, so it's easy to reach on foot
A mix of covered indoor market (Kalare) and open-air stalls, offering some shelter if it rains
Some vendors carry genuine hill-tribe crafts such as Hmong embroidery
Good to know
CautionStall prices are not fixed and are often marked up 50-100% for tourists. Haggling down to around half the asking price (or walking away) is normal — but do not bargain at the Kalare food court or fixed shops.
SafetyPickpockets are common during the 7-10 PM peak crowds. Wear crossbody bags in front with zippers closed, and keep your phone in a front pocket rather than a back one.
CautionCounterfeit 'designer' bags, watches and electronics are widespread. They are poorly made and may be confiscated at customs in strict countries, so it's best to skip them.
CautionTuk-tuk overcharging and commission (shop-steering) scams are frequent near the bazaar. Agree on a fixed fare and destination before boarding; the standard shared songthaew (red truck) fare is about 20 THB per person.
MannersDon't haggle aggressively over tiny amounts. A 20-baht difference matters far more to the vendor than to you, so keep bargaining friendly.
SeasonFebruary to April (especially March) is burning season, when agricultural fires push PM2.5 pollution to hazardous AQI levels. If you visit then, bring an N95/KN95 mask; children, the elderly and anyone with respiratory issues should take extra care.
Practical info
Location: Chang Khlan Road (around the Tha Phae / Sridonchai intersection). Hours: roughly 6 PM to 11 PM, with food stalls later (confirm current times). No entry fee (same for locals and foreigners). Getting there: shared songthaew ~20 THB per person; metered taxi/Grab from the airport ~150-200 THB and 20 min; 15-minute walk from the Old City. Best time to visit: November-January (cool, dry).
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