From Chatuchak to Khlong Lat Mayom: The Best Markets in Bangkok

Bangkok

Bangkok is a bargain hunter’s paradise, so it’s no wonder that the city is chock-full of shopping centers and markets selling everything from fresh produce to clothing and accessories. If you plan on spending a day in one of these vibrantly chaotic shopping jungles, you should definitely wear comfy shoes and bring on your well-rehearsed haggling skills. 

Choosing which market you should spend your limited time on is a daunting task, however, so we’re presenting you with this list to help you get started.

Chatuchak

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The Weekend Market at Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd

Operating Hours: Saturdays and Sundays, 9AM to 6PM

Bangkok’s most famous weekend market consists of 35 hectares of shopping heaven. There are more than 8,000 stalls selling clothes, art pieces, books, plants, and pets. If you get hungry from all that shopping, food stalls are readily available in every corner. 

It’s easy to get overwhelmed and lost in this vast market with its 27 alleyways filled with interesting knickknacks you never knew you needed in your life. You can try to get organized with your shopping by consulting the market’s map or just take it easy and let your feet fall where they may.

Do remember that pickpockets are present in these places so be mindful of your valuables. More importantly, Chatuchak is an open-air market and can get very hot during the afternoon. Remember to put on some sunscreen and stay hydrated while enjoying your shopping expedition.

If you plan on shopping at Chatuchak more than once, try searching online for ที่พัก ใกล้ สวนดุสิต or accommodation near Suan Dusit. This university district is just a few minutes away by road from the major markets of Bangkok. You’ll be glad you stayed here after a day’s shopping frenzy when your feet start hurting and your arms begin to ache from the weight of all those shopping bags!

Pratunam

The Wholesale Market at Khwaeng Thanon Phaya Thai

Operating Hours: Everyday, 24 hours (General Market) Retail Stores: 10AM to 9PM

Bangkok is not just for tourists looking for bargains but also for enterprising individuals looking for opportunities as well. Pratunam caters to everyone, especially if you’re a budget fashionista or an entrepreneur in the garments business. 

Thailand’s proximity to emerging manufacturing hubs Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, as well as its own booming garment industry, all mean that buyers have access to low-cost but high-quality clothes and accessories. A lot of the merchandise here ends up in local markets like Pratunam at unbelievably low prices.

Take note that Pratunam is a wholesale market, which means you can easily bring down the price if you buy 3 or more pieces of the same product. Just remember to bring enough cash with you, as credit cards are often not accepted, especially in the stalls outside the Baiyoke Towers I and II.

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Khlong Lat Mayom

The Floating Market at Bang Ramat Rd

Operating Hours: Everyday, 6AM to 2AM

Bangkok is known for its unique floating markets, and Khlong Lat Mayom is just one of them. This market should be on your list of destinations if you’d rather avoid the touristy Damnoen Saduak and the equally crowded Amphawa. While small compared to the other Bangkok floating markets, Khlong Lat Mayom has all the charm and authenticity that will complete your Thai experience. 

Like every floating market in Thailand, food is the main attraction. You can find fresh produce as well as authentic Thai cuisine in Khlong Lat Mayom. There’s even a shopping area for home accessories, toys, and plants. If you brought kids along, they can have so much fun riding ponies at the nearby ranch.

Rot Fai Market

The Night Market at Ratchadaphisek Rd

Operating Hours: Thursdays to Sundays, 5PM to 12AM

Bangkok has a market for everyone’s taste. This includes the trendy hipster subculture that finds their home in the Rot Fai night market. Indeed, this eclectic market is where you can find rare memorabilia, toys, and other kitschy antiques you can’t find in an ordinary mall or shop.

The place is as quirky as its patrons and merchandise, with its row of bars adorned with vintage VW vans outside. These retro camper vans serve as stalls where secondhand knickknacks are proudly displayed. Rot Fai can be summed up as the fashionable flea market of Bangkok.

Bangkok markets are incredibly vast and will, more often than not, require more than a day to explore. For this reason, choosing a centrally located accommodation is smart if you want to make the most of your shopping time in this city.

 

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From Chatuchak to Khlong Lat Mayom: The Best Markets in Bangkok
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