Chatuchak Weekend Market Bangkok Thailand

One thing I love about Thailand is its markets. They offer travelers an unforgettable travel experience for bargain hunters and fantastic opportunities for some discount shopping.

My favorite market in Bangkok is Chatuchak – the world’s largest weekend market! Yes, this is a shopping paradise for those who love cheap shopping and a place not to be missed when coming to Bangkok.

About Chatuchak weekend market Bangkok

Chatuchak market has a long history of nearly 80 years. It was built and opened to visitors in the 1940s.

Since then, it’s been increasingly developed and expanded to become one of the attractive tourist shopping destinations with affordable prices in Bangkok.

Chatuchak is also one of the world’s largest markets, with over 11 hectares and more than 15,000 stalls selling various goods in categories from fashion, cosmetics, jewelry, technology, and plants. 

You can easily find some cute gifts for your friends back home. Don’t forget to bargain and get a better price if you buy in bulk. 

Chatuchak market opening hours

The market starts on Friday night from 6 pm to midnight. If you don’t have any Friday plans, head to the market and enjoy a fun night.

On the weekend, the market opens from 9 am to 6 pm. Also, the bonsai area opens on Wednesdays and Thursdays, from 7 am to 6 pm.

Best time to visit Chatuchak Weekend Market Bangkok

If you plan to visit the Chatuchak market on the weekend, the best time to go is in the morning.

The temperature is cool and pleasant this time, and it’s not as crowded as at other times. Also, you may get better discounts as the sellers believe that the first sale of the day is good luck.

How to get to the Chatuchak market

Address: 587/10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Chatuchak, Bangkok

There are four main ways to go to Chatuchak Weekend Market:

• Subway (MRT): The closest station is Chatuchak Park Station. After walking out of the station, you’ll get to the clothes areas of Chatuchak Market. If you want to go to the flower and plant area, you should get off Kampheng MRT station.
• Skytrain (BTS): Use BTS to get to Mochit Station, then exit by gate 1 to get to the park and Chatuchak market.
• Bus: You can take an air-conditioned bus from Bangkok with routes 502, 503, 509, 510, 512, 513, and regular buses on route 77.
• Taxi: If you don’t stay near MRT or BTS, book Grab to get to the Chatuchak market. 

My shopping experience

I was completely overwhelmed when I first got there. Although I knew that the market was huge, I didn’t imagine it was that HUGE! 

Surprised by the variety and choices, I decided to walk around first and return to get my favorite. It was a mistake. The market design was like a maze, so I didn’t get back the same way. So I missed some cute items that I planned to buy :(

So, to explore this massive market, I recommend having a map in hand. 

Tips for shopping at Chatuchak market

• Maps: Don’t forget to take a map at the information desk. It’s easy to get lost there.
• Outfit and shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, and the market is massive, so wear something comfortable! 
• Hat & suncream: Some stalls have little to no shelter, so bring a hat and apply sunscreen.
• Cash: Most shops only accept cash, so make sure to bring enough
• Bargain: Be sure to haggle to get the best price. 

Chatuchak market area details

Chatuchak market is arranged into 27 zones where clothing and fashion items occupy most market space.  

Each area sells specialized products, and sellers sell specific items, so remembering the area’s name and which products it sells will be more convenient when shopping here. 

Chatuchak market map

Here is a list of different sections and what they offer.

What to eat at Chatuchak market?

After going around the market, you can visit the stalls in areas 19, 23, and 24 to recharge yourself before continuing.

This is the largest food court in the market, and you can easily find traditional and famous Thai street food here. Delicious Thai dishes to try are coconut ice cream, Pad Thai, mango rice, etc. 

Read more: Day trip to Kanchanaburi.