Chatuchak Market
After mailing the gifts and souvenirs we bought in India, we headed for the largest market in Thailand, the Chatuchak Weekend Market is also known as JJ market. Some merchants, largely those selling clothing and food, open on Friday night but the market really busts to live during the weekend. The opening time of the market are: from 6 pm-midnight in Friday; Saturday and Sunday: 9 am – 6 pm. On the busy weekend, around 8000 vendors sell anything and everything from likewise plastic fruit to soap shaped like a penis to Bag Full of Gold Fishes. The list is almost endless!
Lost in the Maze
We got lost as we wander through the labyrinth of alleyways. The clock tower in the middle of the maze gave us some kind of direction. The market was divided into different sections (27 to be precise) and we asked the vendors for some directions. We really wanted to see the cute puppies...
With such a huge collection of merchandise ranging from plants, antiques, souvenir, living animals we could have shopped until we dropped. But we didn't. Even if you haggle hard, the price isn't always that good as the spot has become a major tourist attraction.
Central World Shopping Complex
After shopping at the market, we headed to the Central World, one of the mega-shopping for more shopping and some people watching. Those complex offers one of the most exciting shopping experiences in Bangkok and is a must do attraction if you visit the megalopolis.
Chatuchak Market essentials: Things to know before visiting
- Location & Access: Located in northern Bangkok, easily accessible via Mo Chit station on BTS Skytrain or Chatuchak Park station on MRT (subway). Both are right at the market entrance.
- Best Time to Visit: Go in the morning (around 10am) as it's less crowded and cooler than the afternoon. The market gets very hot and packed after 1pm.
- Get a Free Map: Pick up a free market map at the tourist information office. You WILL get lost in the labyrinth of alleys. If you know what you're looking for, vendors are happy to point you in the right direction as the market is divided into 27 sections.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing as you might walk all day. Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat if you're sensitive to sun.
- Watch Your Belongings: Be mindful of your belongings and leave valuables at the hotel. We always carry minimum cash and photocopies of our ID cards. Pickpockets operate in this market.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water as the market is huge and often hot and humid with temperatures around 30-35°C. Water and fresh coconuts available everywhere.
- Bargaining is Essential: Haggling is part of Thai culture. Don't be afraid to do it (a good strategy is to start bidding at 50% of the asking price) and walk away if you're not happy with their offer. You'll likely find the same product cheaper at another stall.
- Buy What You Love: If you spot something that catches your eye, buy it! The market is so large that you probably won't find that vendor again and that perfect red dress will be gone.
- Food Options: Chatuchak has numerous restaurants offering food at reasonable prices. Alternatively, head to nearby Tor Kor Market - Bangkok's best fresh market with magnificent fruits, quality meat and seafood, hundreds of prepared dishes, and an outdoor courtyard selling delicious Thai food.
- Public Toilets: Public toilets are located at the entrance and along the main streets running through the market. Don't expect them to be very clean. Bring some toilet paper if you don't want to pay 5 baht on top of the 2 baht fee to use the toilets.
- Opening Hours: Friday: 6pm-midnight (mostly clothing & food). Saturday-Sunday: 9am-6pm (full market). Plan to spend 3-4 hours minimum to explore properly.
- What to Buy: Best buys include clothing, handicrafts, home decor, antiques, plants, and Thai souvenirs. Avoid live animals unless you understand import/export regulations.
Note:
Have you gotten lost in Chatuchak's maze of 8,000 stalls? What's the best bargain you've scored at a weekend market? Any tips for first-time visitors?