Our First Visit to the Chiang Mai Night Market
Words by Dalene Heck / Photography by Pete Heck
We did something unprecedented with the Chiang Mai Saturday night market.
We went back again.
And again.
And again.
If Bangkok is all about rooftop bars and neon chaos, Chiang Mai is where the soul of night markets truly shines.
When the sun dips behind the northern Thai mountains, the city comes alive with sizzling street food, endless rows of trinkets, handmade crafts, and the kind of bargaining banter that doubles as entertainment.
The Chiang Mai Night Market isn’t just shopping — it’s a whole atmosphere.
Our Experience
We like markets, for sure, but typically give them the once-over and then move on our way. We aren’t big souvenir shoppers (with no home to put them in!) and are usually so tired of being harassed to purchase that a prolonged stay just isn’t worth it.
But it was so different there, and every Saturday night, without fail, we made our way across town to stroll the long street. We met friends for food, were wooed into doing a little shopping, and just absolutely loved the vibe, characters, colors, the smells, the ease.
(And with that much dedication to a single event, we were able to take lots of footage to bring you this video snapshot of it.)
We are stingy travelers with our time, and few places we’ve visited have warranted dedicated returns. But we wore a groove up and down that street, ate more gyoza than is probably recommended, and had to buy an extra bag to pack all the high-quality, low-cost presents we procured.
And that is as good of a testament as we can ever give.
Why Go?
Because wandering the night market is like stepping into a live-action postcard of Chiang Mai.
One moment you’re sipping fresh mango smoothies, the next you’re haggling for elephant-print pants you’ll never wear back home but absolutely need right now.
Whether you’re hungry, curious, or just in the mood for people-watching, this market ticks all the boxes.
Things to Do at the Night Market
Eat Everything – Pad Thai, khao soi (Chiang Mai’s iconic curry noodle soup), grilled skewers, mango sticky rice… the food stalls are endless.
Shop Till You Bargain – From silk scarves to quirky souvenirs, you’ll find plenty of treasures. Pro tip: bargaining is expected, but keep it friendly (think smiles, not battles).
Local Crafts & Art – Many stalls sell hand-carved wooden pieces, paintings, and textiles made by local artisans. It’s a great way to support Chiang Mai’s creative community.
Catch Street Performances – Musicians, dancers, and the occasional fire-juggler add to the carnival-like atmosphere.
End With a Foot Massage – Yes, there are plenty of stalls offering outdoor massages right in the middle of the market. Cheap, relaxing, and the best way to wrap up the night.
Where Is It?
The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar runs along Chang Klan Road, just east of the Old City. It sprawls across several blocks, with side streets and alleys packed full of vendors.
If you think you’ll “just walk through for an hour,” prepare to triple that.
How to Do It
- Timing – The market kicks off around 6 p.m. and winds down close to 11 p.m.
- Cash is King – While some stalls take cards, most are cash-only. Bring small bills.
- Dress Light – It’s warm and crowded; you’ll thank yourself later.
- Don’t Rush – Half the fun is soaking up the chaos. Treat it like a stroll, not a sprint.
- Stay Hydrated – Coconut water is your best friend here.
Where to Stay Nearby
Staying near the market means you can shop, eat, drop your finds at your hotel, and come back for more. Here are top picks in every budget range:
Budget
- Baan Bua Guesthouse – Affordable, clean, and just a short tuk-tuk ride from the action.
- Green Sleep Hostel – Trendy, social, and perfect for backpackers.
Mid-Range
- Yaang Come Village – A charming boutique hotel with traditional Lanna-style architecture, close to the market but peaceful once you step inside.
- De Chai Colonial Hotel & Spa – A mix of comfort, style, and location.
Luxury
- Anantara Chiang Mai Resort – Riverside luxury within walking distance of the bazaar. Gorgeous spa, stunning pool, and impeccable service.
- Le Méridien Chiang Mai – Modern luxury right in the heart of the Night Bazaar area.
Things to Do Nearby
- Tha Phae Gate – Just a short walk from the market, this historic gate is one of the city’s most famous landmarks.
- Sunday Walking Street – Held at Ratchadamnoen Road, this market is arguably even bigger and more local than the Night Bazaar.
- Wat Chedi Luang – Visit this ancient temple earlier in the day, then head to the market at night.
- Ping Riverfront – Lined with restaurants and bars, perfect for a quieter vibe after the bustle of the bazaar.
FAQ
Is it safe?
Yes! The market is busy but safe. Keep an eye on your belongings (pickpockets love crowds), but otherwise it’s family-friendly.
Do I need to bargain?
Yes, but politely. Start at about half the asking price and meet somewhere in the middle.
Can I eat street food without worry?
Absolutely — food stalls are a highlight. Go for busy vendors (a sign of fresh turnover), and you’ll be fine.
Is it stroller/kid-friendly?
It can get crowded, but families with kids are common. Be prepared for sensory overload (which most kids love).
Final Thoughts
The Chiang Mai Night Market isn’t just about shopping — it’s about immersion. It’s where travellers and locals mingle, where flavours and colours collide, and where you’ll end the night with both a full stomach and a full backpack.
Go hungry, go curious, and go with an open mind… and maybe save some room in your suitcase.
Love the night markets – fantastic people watching.
Yes! And dog watching in Chiang Mai. I wish I had gotten video of some of the dolled up puppies we saw!
I love markets. Those kimonos in the background are so cute!
Excellent post. We’ve been considering going to Chiang Mai next winter, so it’s great to hear some of the details about the place.
It makes for a good winter escape, that’s for sure!
Beautiful scenes you captured. I, too, love night markets!
Great shots and cute video!
You just made things a little harder for me. In March I will be visiting Thailand for the first time and was going to leave Chiang Mai in time to get to Bangkok for their world famous weekend market.
Thoughts on this? Stick around Chiang Mai instead?
Shaun
http://www.thislifeintrips.com
I haven’t been to Bangkok so hard to say – BUT I did really want to go there for their weekend market. You should probably do both. 🙂
Nothing wrong with going back 8-)) Exotic markets like this take hours to explore and check out. Keep traveling! I enjoy your posts.
Thank you Alfredo!
People watching is my favorite at night markets. I loved the video!
I always love your videos and this one in particular made me very hungry. Happy to hear you enjoyed it so much! Thanks for sharing.
Happy travels 🙂
Thanks Lauren! Sorry about the infliction of hunger. 🙂
Great job capturing the market!
We especially loved the guys lined up playing drums with upside down buckets.
Thanks Jan! I wish we had gotten better footage of those guys too. Hope you guys are well!
That video ROCKS! You guys are so awesome! 😉
We love the markets there too. So vibrant. We have been to Chiang Mai 3 times and we will go again. The lychee festival is really worth going to also. Have fun and a foot massage under the trees
Ohhh, the foot massages! Miss that. 🙂
Ahhhh! I am always there at the night market. I go there mainly for the for…but I do really like to “window shop” as well, knowing I don’t have the ability to carry these nifty trinkets with me, but maybe one day.
Being there just before Christmas, it made shopping for presents much easier for us. 🙂
Nothing better than visiting the local market! I love it and do it every new place I go to. Fascinating night captures.
Actually, I recommend eating ALL the gyoza, always, so no judgment here 😉
One of the things I liked most about the market are the painters that do unbelievable portraits …are they still there?
Yes, there was some amazing artwork there!
This is definitely my favourite video of yours so far.
We have lived in Chiang Mai for almost 2 years and have only perused the wares of the Saturday Walking Street once. We’ve inched our way along through the Sunday market, and generally, crave fresh air within about 10 minutes and escape. Perhaps we need to check out the Saturday market again… after the busy tourist season ends in March, though 🙂
Try going early! It gets nuts after 6 or so, but if you go around 5, all the stands are set up and it is much emptier. 😉
You are far more tolerant than I am!! I just went last weekend and made everyone go super early to skip the crowds. It is way too crowded for me!
Spent a month in Thailand, but missed Chang Mai. Now I really regret it and must try to get there. Love your photos.
Thank You http://www.housesittingtravels.com
Few things can compare to good food and people watching. I love places that are full of life (and food, obviously).
Beautiful photos of the market… and whew, I give you props for going back.
I managed to make it nearly two years without going back before Dustin Main dragged me there on my last week in Chiang Mai. It was just as packed as I remember… though, not quite as much of a madhouse as the Sunday Night Market during Yi Peng. Anyway, I ramble, but the point is… great post 🙂
I think there’s no shame in returning to places you really love!
Great lighting. LOVE markets.
It must be an awesome market! 🙂 Thanks for sharing.
Going back to a place multiple times means a lot to me too. Always great to find those surprises in your travels.
Your opening photograph is beautiful. It is cool when you find a market to revisit happily. We found that in Luang Prabang. Chiang Mai I am sure would be another. I know we would love Chiang Mai which makes me think maybe we should not go. I would want to stay for sure.
I used to live right near that night market! I really do miss that city. Beautiful photos !!