Find out everything you need about the Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market. From the location, prices, opening hours, what to buy, and more, this ultimate guide to this massive walking street has you covered!
Before I visited the Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market, I thought it would be like the rest of the markets in Thailand and Southeast Asia. Just some souvenirs, a few food stalls, live music, and mainly full of tourists.
However, my opinion quickly changed after visiting. Seriously, this is the best night market in Chiang Mai and maybe even Thailand.
Just so you know, the Sunday Night Market in Chiang Mai has many different names. Though no matter what you call it, such as the Walking Street Market, everyone will know which one you are talking about.
I have been lucky enough to visit numerous times. Honestly, I will organize my Thailand itinerary to include a Sunday in Chiang Mai.
Important Details About The Chiang Mai Sunday Walking Market:
- On Sundays from 4pm until late
- Located 1km along Ratchadamnoen Road, and spreading off down numerous side streets
Visiting The Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market: All You Need To Know
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Opening Hours Of The Market
The Sunday Night Market hours are from 4 p.m. until about midnight when all the crowds disperse. To say it draws in a massive audience would be an understatement.
When I was visiting, one of the first questions I was asked at the hostel was, ‘Would I be in town for the Sunday market?’ The answer was, “Of course, yes!”
You’ll find the market the most crowded from 7 pm to 10 pm. So if you are keen on a bit of personal space, definitely plan your visit a bit earlier than this, around 4.30 pm or 5 pm.
If places run out of food, or the weather starts to pack in, the vendors will head off a bit earlier.
Location Of The Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market
The Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market is extremely easy to find within the Old Town walls.
Stalls are set up 1km along Ratchadamnoen Road and spread through the side streets and Tha Phae Gate.
From the late afternoon until midnight or even later, the streets in the Old City quickly come to life.
It is in a central location and easy to get to from some of the best areas to stay and the top hostels. You will definitely need to set aside a decent amount of time for exploring.
Trust me, you will want to taste all the wonderfully cheap food, buy some souvenirs, and watch the street performances.
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Why You Should Visit The Sunday Night Market In Chiang Mai
To say the Night Markets are one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai would be an understatement. It seems that everybody visits on a Sunday evening!
In all honesty, visiting this market is one of the top things to do in Thailand!
No jokes, I literally revolve my whole itinerary making sure I have a Sunday in Chiang Mai!
You’ll be absolutely amazed by the sheer number of stalls selling basically anything and everything.
No doubt you will find the perfect souvenir to take home (my last one was a beautiful handcrafted elephant mug).
Some of the things you will find here are:
- Flower Shaped Soaps
- Jewelry & Clothing
- Buddhas
- Butterfly wall pieces
- Locally Made Handicrafts
- Paintings
There are also plenty of artists set up showing off their talents, some painting live caricatures, and others drawing landscapes.
I visited with a couple I had previously met in Bangkok. We were all on Khao San Road trying to get to the bus terminal without getting ripped off, and got to know each other in a taxi.
We decided to catch up again in Chiang Mai to explore the markets everyone says are a must-see.
To say it is crowded would be an understatement, though we managed not to lose each other in the chaos.
There is no real direction that everyone goes. You will just constantly be dodging others, though it’s totally worth it.
Foodie Heaven At The Sunday Market In Chiang Mai
To say I love food is an understatement, and I was certainly in heaven here. Multiple areas around the market are dedicated to food stalls, and there are also many that line the main walking street.
Wanting noodles? No problem.
Feeling like seafood? Easy done.
How about something a little sweet? All sorted.
Or even my favorite tourist staple, a fruit smoothie.
Seriously, it is an awesome atmosphere, with so many scents in the air, and the way they mass cook the food is like some sort of show.
I often ended up in a temple complex, which has many food outlets and decent seating.
My favorite was three samosas for $0.75 and coconut ice cream for $1.00. On the main road, there is also the best steak in the world, according to my absolutely amazed partner.
Iconic Foods To Try:
- Grilled Skewers
- Khao Soi
- Mango Sticky Rice
- Pad Thai
- Spring Rolls
- Sai Oua (Northern Thai Sausage)
- Fresh Fruit Smoothies
If you are keen on something more unusual, or perhaps want to test your stomach, why not try the fried insects?
If this tickles your fancy, you will be spoiled with choices such as tarantulas, crickets, worms, and plenty more!
Seriously, the Chiang Mai Sunday Market is a food lover’s dream. On my most recent visit, we treated it like our own food tour and indulged in absolutely anything that sparked our fancy.
It was great giving some new foods a go, and in total, we spent less than $15.00 for both of us!
We were certainly full enough to explode by the end.
What Else Can You Buy?
Now I know I have said a lot about food, but don’t worry, there are plenty of other things here as well!
If you need to relax with a foot massage after wandering around for hours, this is the place to be. There are cheap spots set up on the street where you can sit down and relax.
Trust me, you won’t miss it with the locals doing their sales pitch to every person who walks past.
Also, when it’s $6.00 for an hour, you can’t really pass up this type of bargain.
One of my favorite purchases from my most recent trip to Thailand was actually from here. I first saw a sign stating $3.10 / 100 THB for these large screen-printed paintings.
I thought that could not be true, though, on my way out, I saw it again and knew I had to stop.
Luckily, the prices were correct, and I brought two different paintings, one of the beaches in southern Thailand and another of elephants in the hills of northern Thailand.
No matter what you are after, you can bet on finding it here in the night markets.
From cute flower-carved soaps, infamous elephant temple pants, and so much more!
It’s pretty dangerous having free rein and being a fully grown adult able to make your own decisions. My wallet certainly had a good workout by the time we got back to the hostel.
What Are The Prices & How Much Should I Pay?
It can always be difficult in Asian markets to know exactly how much you should pay.
Luckily, in the Chiang Mai Sunday Market, the street food always has prices displayed, with most snacks being $0.60 / 20 THB.
The decor, souvenirs, and clothing are a little more difficult as they sometimes do not have pricing.
It is best to have a rough estimate of the price before buying so you know whether you are getting a fair deal. The best way to go about this is to shop around and see what others are charging.
Alternatively, you can ask at least half of what the seller first says it costs. Unfortunately, 99% of the time, they will refuse and offer a price lower than the original. You will then go back and forth until an agreement is made.
Through personal experience, I have found that the closer you are to the middle of the market, the more expensive things get.
On the side streets and at each end of the road are where prices seem to be a bit cheaper.
Are There Bathrooms
Yes, there are bathrooms dotted around the market; however, they are nothing to be excited about. Expect your standard squat toilets and make sure to bring some toilet paper or tissues along with you.
Can I Drink Alcohol
You can drink alcohol at one of the restaurants or bars that line the street, but you are not allowed to drink out in the open on the road. If you do you risk being fined up to $275 / 10,000 THB
Rules To Follow:
– No Smoking Of Any Kind
– No Pets
– No Drinking
Where To Head After The Market
If the vibes are still feeling good and you want to continue your night, I recommend heading to one of the bars. Keep in mind it is a Sunday, so things may not get too crazy, but Zoe In Yellow is a good bet for a fun time.
Other Top Markets in Chiang Mai
If you love exploring markets and trying new foods, here are some other markets you should visit while in Chiang Mai.
Just don’t eat beforehand, so you have plenty of room for some yummy bites.
Chiang Mai Gate Night Food Market
When: Every day, from 5 pm till noon.
Location: Chiang Mai South Gate. Just at the opposite side of the Chiang Mai Gate. Rat Chiang Saen Road.
Chang Puak North Gate Food Market
When: Every day, from 5 pm till noon.
Location: Chiang Mai North Gate / Chang Puak Gate.
Saturday Night Market
When: Every Saturday, 5 pm – 11 pm.
Location: Wualai Road.
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Where To Stay In Chiang Mai?
You have heaps of options for accommodation in Chiang Mai.
On my most recent visit, I stayed at De Lanna Hotel in the heart of Old Town. The location was great, and having a pool to enjoy during the afternoon heat was fantastic.
Though on the opposite side, I also stayed in the cheapest available hostel on my first visit. The owner was great, but the facilities were less than, so thankfully, it has since shut down.
However, just do better than me and make sure to read reviews on best hostels in Chiang Mai.
When choosing a location, I tend to stick within the confines of the Old Town. This is definitely best if you are staying for a short period on holiday.
The Old Town is within walking distance of many beautiful temples, excellent shopping, delicious restaurants, and, of course, the famous Sunday Night Market.
A modern and upscale hostel. From $13.00 per night including a fab breakfast. BOOK NOW |
Chiangmai Midpoint Activity Hostel A favorite with travelers. A hostel with all the amenities, from $6.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
Beautiful private rooms for $55.00 per night and in the heart of the city with a pool. BOOK NOW |
My favorite place to stay right in the heart of the city. Private rooms start from $45.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
Wrap Up: Visiting The Sunday Night Market In Chiang Mai
By now, I should’ve well and truly convinced you a visit to the Sunday Night Market is a must in Chiang Mai!
It is the perfect way to spend an evening, with great food and atmosphere. It is also the perfect opportunity to do a little souvenir shopping or pick up a new pair of temple pants.
Any Questions? Let me know in the comments!
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This article was incredibly informative! I learned so much and appreciate the depth of research that went into it.
Are the night markets open even in the monsoon months. We plan to visit Chiang Mai sometime around August 2nd week. Wondering if the markets will be open and buzzing. Also is trekking an option in August.
I usually avoid going to markets because of its huge crowed, but here there is something which I admire the most “Food”. I am sure gonna visit this yummy market asap. Thanks for making me aware of this. Keep up the good work. Cheers!!!
Love the Chiang Mai Sunday Walking Market. We had the best time checking out all the stalls and the street food will keep us coming back. Thanks for sharing it brings back so many memories.
I have the best memories of sitting in the Chiang Mai night markets eating banana roti and having my feet massaged.
Oh my God! I had no idea about this. The handicraft items look so beautiful! I’m definitely going to ensure I spend a Sunday in Chiang Mai when I plan a trip :D
This sounds like such a fun experience! I’m kind of sad that this particular one is only on Sunday nights; I imagine it’s a place we’d want to go and never leave (especially as foodies). All the treats and colors and people seem so exciting and inspiring. :) Though I’d never try the bugs; I’m definitely not that adventurous.
Yeah I was in Chiang Mai for two weeks so I was luckily able to experience two of these markets! There are heaps of others during the week and on Saturday if you aren’t able to make it. They are just not on such a grand scale
I really loved Chiang Mai when I went and easily much more than Bangkok. I thought the food was much better and the night markets are just amazing and lively. I think the vendors in these markets are much warmer to tourists than markets in Bangkok which feel too crowded for my liking.
I totally agree with you! Chiang Mai markets are just in a league of its own
I remember how much I loved this market (your post brings back good memories). I love markets in general but the Asian ones are in their own league. I am into visiting one or more every day.
I’m from Taiwan and we have some awesome night markets but oh my goodness I totally need to visit the ones in Thailand now. This looks like total foodie heaven and girl you got me drooling all over my laptop! And three samosas for $0.75!??!??!?!?! Kay, I’m booking a flight there!
I loved these night markets, I would say they are the best ones in Thailand. Total foodie heaven with prices to match!
The Chiang Mai markets are amazing, aren’t they!? I hadn’t heard of them until my visit a couple of years ago but am now telling everyone to go. We even managed to find some handmade Christmas decorations when we were there in november!
So amazing! Yeah I hadnt heard too much of them until I had arrived, then it was the only thing anyone would talk about! Wow christmas decorations, that would make such a cool souvenir!
I always associate markets with bugs on sticks but those cakes look unreal ? Definitely changed my opinion!
Its not your typical SE Asian market, well there are bugs on sticks, but so many other foods that actually taste good as well
Wow! This looks and sounds incredible. I haven’t yet had the pleasure to travel to Thailand yet, but I hope to one day (especially after reading this). Also, those kiwi and oreo-topped cakes look delicious!
I never tried one of those cakes, was too full, but I have such regret now
I’ve been to Thailand before, but not to Chiang Mai. The market sounds like a must visit the next time I go back. And your pics are so vibrant!
Do they have lots of vegetarian options as well? Would love to visit when I am in Chiang Mai.
Yeah I am vegetarian and there are heaps of options :) You totally should if you are in the area, just make sure you are there on a Sunday
I went to this same market a few years back with my parents and sister! We ate so much.. it was such a fun night!
Thailand knows how to put on a night market! They’re such fun, vibrant places to explore. Chiang Mai is a great place to wander around too.
Oh yes thats for sure! I love Chiang Mai and all the restaurants there are amazing
I remember the markets inThailand being likes these, vibrant, loud and beautiful. There was always something amazing to see and eat at each stall. Great post
I went to Chiang Mai but wasn’t there for the market, next time! The photos are amazing, especially the food ones, they are making me hungry!
Oh definitely next time then! Haha thanks
Are the night markets open even in the monsoon months. We plan to visit Chiang Mai sometime around August 2nd week. Wondering if the markets will be open and buzzing. Also is trekking an option in August.
I love Thai markets, they are probably some of the best around the world! Plus the food is just divine!
This night market is one of my favorite memories of Thailand. We bought a huge peacock painting from a local artist and carried the wrapped up canvas around Thailand for a few more weeks. It hangs on our wall now. I’d definitely love to go back!
Oh wow really! That’s awesome, I saw so many amazing paintings that I would have loved to buy, but I couldn’t imagine carrying it around.
I am so happy to have read this post because it brought back so many good memories of my experience at that market a few years back. I loved it too!! I found it too crowded but you expect that of a great night market in Thailand! :)
Oh I am glad you enjoyed it as well! Yeah it is certainly crowded, but yeah anywhere decent in Thailand is busy