Ready to add extra fun and serious exploring to your next Chiang Mai trip? Then here is your chance. Stay out a little later after sunset, and then you will witness another side of Thai living: the Chiang Mai Night Market.
The Chiang Mai Night Market opens in the evening and closes at midnight. It is the perfect option to get involved with the vendors and learn about their culture and the hard work behind each handmade product they sell. Chiang Mai Night Markets can be considered a place where cultural crossroads happen.
The Night Markets display a variety of Thai foods and Culture from the Northern side of Chiang Mai. So come with an appetite and delve into the tradition and culture of Chiang Mai, which was influenced by the Thai, Chinese, and Burmese.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the must-visit night markets of Chiang Mai, plus what to eat, what to shop for, and how to make the most of your evening adventures. Ready to dive in? Let’s hit the streets!
Why Are Night Markets Essential to the Chiang Mai Experience?
Chiang Mai’s Night Markets cannot just be categorised as things to do in Chiang Mai, but they are doors to the soul of the city. Every stall at the Night Market will tell a story. You’ll see intricate designs with delicate lanterns, artisanal textiles, and silverwork. If you are lucky enough, then you will witness a group of people performing their traditional dance or folk live, which will shift the atmosphere of the market into a mini-festival mood.
Chiang Mai’s social life happens at the night market, so just forget about a formal dinner. At the night market, locals and travellers get together over skewers of grilled chicken and bargain for handcrafted souvenirs, and swap travel tips while sipping fresh mango smoothies. It’s noisy, colorful, and wonderfully human.
Imagine starting your evening with a steaming bowl of khao soi, moving on to a juicy, herb-packed sai ua, and finishing with coconut ice cream served in its shell. Then wander past fruit stalls and try something you’ve never seen before, maybe a tangy mangosteen or a neon-pink dragon fruit. Your mouth must be watering at this point. It’s time to take your taste buds on a vacation.
Chiang Mai’s uniqueness can’t be excluded in these, most celebrated annual festivals like Loy Krathong and Songkran, light up the sky and your mood, music spills from every corner, and the markets overflow with special treats, crafts, and performances you won’t find any other time.
Now that you know why these night markets are so special, let’s go exploring. From the famous weekend walking streets to hidden gems only locals know about, here’s your 2025 guide to the very best night markets in Chiang Mai.
Ultimate Chiang Mai Night Market List
Now that you know how energetic and unique the night markets of Chiang Mai are, it’s time to learn which markets you must add to your visit list. Let’s dive into where you should go. Even if you are after iconic spots, foodie heaven, or a trendy hangout, you’ll know exactly where to head.
A. Classic & Iconic Night Markets
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
If there’s one night market that you can not miss, then it is Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. It is considered to be the grandaddy of all the markets. Sprawling along Chang Khlan Road, the Night Bazaar is where the city’s energy truly comes alive. Imagine stall after stall of colorful souvenirs, hand-carved wooden elephants, shimmering silk scarves, and quirky T-shirts you’ll want to pack home.
If you think here is the end of the perks of Night Bazaar, you can also test your taste buds. From sizzling skewers to mango sticky rice, we are damn sure your stomach won’t be disappointed. The best part of this market is that you can shop, snack, and people-watch all at the same time. It’s the perfect spot for first-timers who want a little bit of everything in one unforgettable evening.
Anusarn Market
A short stroll from the Night Bazaar, Anusarn Market is your go-to if you want great food and a cozy, slightly more laid-back atmosphere. It’s partly covered, so it’s perfect if you’re worried about rain, and the huge food court has everything from fresh seafood BBQ to Thai hotpot. If you see a stall grilling giant river prawns, stop and try it; it will be the best part about visiting Anusarn Market.
After dinner, wander through stalls selling clothes, accessories, and trinkets, or grab a drink and enjoy a little people-watching as the night hums around you. Anusarn Market has the best things to do on a night stroll.
B. Weekend Walking Streets
Sunday Walking Street
Sunday Walking Street is the big one. Every Sunday evening, Ratchadamnoen Road transforms into a pedestrian-only paradise of food, crafts, art, and live music. The energy is electric, the crowd is huge, and the variety is endless. You can spend hours here and still not see it all.
You can indulge in many things over there, like browsing a hand-made bag, trying a steaming Khao Soi, listening to street performers, and watching the twinkling lanterns. It will be a productive night, we promise. It would be good if you visit early to avoid crowds and to capture the golden hour with your camera.
Saturday Night Market
Saturday Night Market is smaller than the Sunday version but packed with charm. This market is famous for silver jewelry, intricate wood carvings, and beautiful handmade goods. It’s a little less hectic, making it perfect for a slower-paced wander. This street is known for its silversmiths; if you see something you love, it’s worth buying here. The smell of the freshly baked roti will follow you down the street, and you can expect a handful of things to try here.
C. Food-Focused Markets
Chang Puak Gate Food Stalls
If you are a food lover or just want to take your taste buds on a vacation? Then, Chang Puak Gate (North Gate) Food Stalls are waiting for you. Once you visit then your stomach will say I want more, for sure. In Chang Puak Gate Food Stalls, you’ll find the legendary “Cowboy Hat Lady” serving her melt-in-your-mouth pork leg rice (khao kha moo) plus dozens of other local favorites. It’s a casual, open-air setup with plastic stools and unbeatable flavors. Perfect for grabbing dinner before heading out to explore. Go there with your friends so you can order and share multiple dishes.
Warorot Market
If you want real Chiang Mai’s flavor to take home, the Warorot Market will be the one you are looking for. You can stock up on dried fruits, fragrant herbs, and spicy northern chili pastes. It’s also fun for people-watching and browsing everyday Thai household goods you won’t see in tourist markets.
It remains a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant atmosphere, experience authentic Thai culture, and collect Chiang Mai’s flavours on the way back.
Ton Lamyai Flower Market
What makes Ton Lamyai Flower Market different from all other markets is its working hours. This market runs 24/7, but it’s pure magic at night. You will see orchids, roses, marigolds, and jasmine garlands on the paths, and every stall is fragrant with the mix of many flowers. Your nose will get confused for sure.
Ton Lamyai Flower Market is not just for flower buyers, but it can entertain everyone without knowing their tastes. To take a peaceful stroll and a photogenic escape from the busier markets nearby, Ton Lamyai Flower Market is the best destination for you.
D. Youth & Trendy Spots
Kad Na Mor
If you are a student or looking for affordable and stylish clothes, then Kad Na Mor market is what you have been searching for all this time. This is the student market-affordable fashion, quirky accessories, and creative snacks you won’t see in tourist-heavy areas. Expect bubble tea, fried chicken in paper cones, and trendy thrift-shop vibes. It’s an energetic, youthful market to see Chiang Mai’s modern side.
Ploen Ruedee Night Market
It is amazing to have your food while listening to soothing music under a fairy light. Ever wondered where you can experience such romantic dining? What if I say the Ploen Ruedee Night Market of Chiang Mai can match your expectations?
A modern open-air food court under fairy lights, with live music and a mix of Thai and international food stalls, that’s Ploen Ruedee. It’s perfect for a relaxed night out where you can eat, drink, and chat without the chaos of bigger markets. Grabbing a table near the stage can bring extra fun.
E. Emerging & Alternative Markets
One Nimman White Market
If you like your night markets with a touch of style, One Nimman White Market is your spot. Set in a chic, European-style courtyard, this market feels more like an artsy evening out than a chaotic shopping spree. You’ll find beautifully curated artisan goods, handmade crafts, and boutique-quality clothing, the kind of pieces you want to take home.
It’s also a great excuse to explore the Nimman area, with its trendy cafes, cocktail bars, and street performers adding to the atmosphere. This is the kind of place where you can browse, sip a latte, and catch an impromptu acoustic set all in the same evening. Visit in the evening for golden hour to enjoy the courtyard’s warm lighting before it sparkles under the night sky.
Rincome Night Market
Rincome market is that casual, no-fuss night market you stumble upon and end up loving. Located near the Nimman area, it has a relaxed, neighborhood vibe-the kind of place where locals browse vintage racks, uni students grab street snacks, and everyone seems to know the best stalls.
It’s not flashy, but that’s the charm. You’ll find pre-loved fashion treasures, retro accessories, and comfort food classics like fried chicken, grilled pork skewers, and Thai crepes. Perfect for a chilled evening when you just want to wander without battling big crowds. Arrive after 7 PM, that’s when most stalls are in full swing and the food smells start calling your name.
More Space Night Market
More Space is what happens when a market and a creative hangout space have a love child. Tucked in the trendy Nimmanhaemin area, it’s laid-back, artsy, and filled with indie clothing brands, handmade jewelry, quirky art prints, and the occasional pop-up exhibition.
There are plenty of spots to sit, chat, and enjoy a drink, so it feels more like a neighborhood get-together than a bustling tourist market. If you’re after something unique and low-key, this is your happy place.
Kalare Night Market
It is part of the larger Night Bazaar complex. Kalare market mixes shopping with live cultural entertainment, making it feel like more than just a place to buy souvenirs. You might browse for handicrafts one minute, then stumble upon a traditional Thai dance performance or a sketch artist creating portraits on the spot.
The covered setup makes it a good pick during the rainy season, and the variety means you can grab dinner, shop for keepsakes, and enjoy a bit of local culture all in one go. If you want to add a special touch to your evening, then stick around for the free cultural performances.
Chiang Mai Night Market Snapshot Table
| Market Name | Days & Hours | Specialties | Best For | Location | Nearby Attractions & Activities |
| Chiang Mai Night Bazaar | Daily, 5 PM–11 PM | Souvenirs, clothing, street food | First-time visitors, variety shopping | Chang Klan Road | Chiang Mai City Tour (Northern Temples), Siam Dragon Cabaret Show, Doi Suthep & Wat Umong Night Tour |
| Sunday Walking Street | Sunday, 4 PM–10 PM | Handicrafts, local art, food stalls | Culture lovers, photographers | Ratchadamnoen Road | Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, Hill Tribes & Wat Pha Lat Tour |
| Wua Lai Walking Street | Saturday, 5 PM–10 PM | Silver jewelry, crafts, snacks | Unique handicrafts, traditional art | Wua Lai Road | Wat Sri Suphan (Silver Temple), Chiang Mai Night Safari Park |
| Warorot Market | Daily, 6 AM–6 PM | Fresh produce, fabrics, spices | Morning market experience | Near the Ping River | Ton Lamyai Flower Market, Elephant Jungle Sanctuary – Chiang Mai |
| Ploen Ruedee Night Market | Daily, 5 PM–11 PM | International food stalls, live music | Nightlife, casual dining | Chang Klan Road | Siam Dragon Cabaret Show, Doi Suthep Night Tour |
| Kad Na Mor | Daily, 5 PM–11 PM | Student-friendly food, trendy clothes | Budget shopping, local eats | Near Chiang Mai University | Hug Elephant Sanctuary, Sticky Waterfall Climb |
| One Nimman White Market | Daily, 10 AM–10 PM | Boutique shops, artisan goods | Stylish shopping, coffee lovers | Nimmanhaemin Road | Doi Suthep Temple, Chiang Mai City Tour |
| Rincome Night Market | Daily, 5 PM–10 PM | Street food, casual clothes | Quick bites, local feel | Huay Kaew Road | Huay Kaew Waterfall, Doi Suthep |
| More Space Night Market | Daily, 5 PM–10 PM | Food trucks, crafts | Social atmosphere, casual dining | Chang Phueak Area | Chiang Mai Night Safari Park |
| Kalare Night Market | Daily, 5 PM–11 PM | Food court, handicrafts | Family-friendly dining | Next to Night Bazaar | Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, Siam Dragon Cabaret Show |
Cultural & Local Connections
After exploring Chiang Mai’s diverse night markets from the bustling Night Bazaar to the trendy One Nimman White Market, it’s easy to see that they’re more than just places to shop and eat. They’re living, breathing pieces of the city’s heritage.
Which brings us to one of my favorite parts of the Chiang Mai night market experience: the way each market is tied to local culture, traditions, and history. Even its silver jewelry crafted in family workshops, vibrant paper lanterns lighting up the streets, or the way the markets explode with color during festivals, these spaces tell the city’s story in a way no guidebook ever could.
Handicraft Traditions
Ever admired a hand-carved wooden elephant or a delicate silver bracelet? Many of these treasures are made by local artisans right here in Chiang Mai. Wua Lai’s silver jewelry is world-renowned, while you’ll spot paper lanterns, handwoven textiles, and intricate wood carvings in markets across the city.
Festival Enhancements
If you’re lucky enough to visit during Loy Krathong or Songkran, the markets turn into a whole new world-more stalls, brighter lights, and special festival-themed crafts and foods you won’t see at any other time of year.
Nearby Attractions
Night markets are often just steps away from some of Chiang Mai’s most beautiful landmarks. Think Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, or the iconic Tha Phae Gate are perfect for a little temple hopping before diving into the evening buzz.
If you’re planning your Chiang Mai trip beyond its buzzing night markets, the city offers countless cultural, culinary, and nature experiences. To learn more about the activities, check Things to do in Chiang Mai.
What to Eat at Chiang Mai Night Markets
| Food Item | Description | Best Markets to Try |
| Khao Soi | Creamy, coconut-based curry noodle soup topped with crispy noodles | Chang Puak Gate, Sunday Walking Street |
| Sai Ua (Northern Sausage) | Spicy, herby pork sausage packed with lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves | Warorot Market, Night Bazaar |
| Nam Prik Ong / Nam Prik Noom | Northern Thai chili dips,tomato-based (Ong) or roasted green chili (Noom) | Warorot Market |
| Coconut Ice Cream in Coconut Shell | Refreshing ice cream served in a real coconut, topped with peanuts and sticky rice | Sunday Walking Street |
| Grilled Meats & Skewers | Smoky chicken, pork, or seafood skewers hot off the grill | Chang Puak Gate, Kad Na Mor |
| Seasonal Fruits & Sweets | Mango sticky rice, durian, longan, and other tropical delights | Various night markets year-round |
Planning Your Night Market Crawl
Local Tips for the Best Night Market Experience
- Bargain respectfully – A friendly smile and polite approach go a long way.
- Carry cash in small bills – Many vendors don’t take cards, and it makes transactions faster.
- Wear comfortable shoes – You’ll be walking for hours.
- Keep valuables safe – Night markets can get crowded, so be mindful of your belongings.
- Try one dessert you’ve never heard of – It’s the sweetest way to discover Chiang Mai’s flavors.
Bonus Experiences at Chiang Mai Night Markets
| Experience | Where to Find It | Why Try It |
| Live Music & Performances | Ploen Ruedee, Kalare Night Market | Adds atmosphere and a festive vibe to your night out. |
| On-the-spot Art | Various markets with portrait sketch artists | Take home a unique, hand-drawn souvenir. |
| Massage Stalls | Sunday Walking Street | Perfect for relaxing after hours of strolling and shopping. |
| Photography Hotspots | Ton Lamyai Flower Market, paper lantern displays, Night Bazaar neon | Capture Instagram-worthy shots and local charm. |
Your Chiang Mai Nights, Your Way
Chiang Mai’s night markets aren’t just places to shop; they’re a vibrant mix of sizzling street food, centuries-old traditions, creative local talent, and the friendly hum of people from all over the world. Whether you’re here for silver jewelry in Wua Lai, live music at Ploen Ruedee, or that perfect bowl of Khao Soi at Chang Puak, there’s a market that matches your mood.
Mix and match your night market visits based on the day, vibe, and what you’re craving. And don’t forget, pairing your market crawl with nearby temples, riverside strolls, or festival events can turn an ordinary night into a truly unforgettable Chiang Mai memory.
From spicy Khao Soi to handmade lanterns, Chiang Mai’s night markets are where flavors, colors, and cultures meet under twinkling lights. Plan your nights by vibe, shop with your heart, and soak in the city’s magic one market at a time with Thrillark.
FAQs
Q.1. What is the most famous night market in Chiang Mai?
The Night Bazaar is the most famous and longest-running night market in Chiang Mai, known for its mix of souvenirs, clothing, and street food.
Q.2. Which night market is best for local handicrafts?
The Sunday Walking Street is the best for handmade crafts, paintings, and traditional Thai souvenirs.
Q.3. What time do Chiang Mai night markets open?
Most markets open around 5:00 PM and close by 10:00–11:00 PM, though some daytime markets like Warorot open as early as 6:00 AM.
Q.4. Are night markets in Chiang Mai open every day?
Some markets, like the Night Bazaar, run daily. Others, like the Sunday Walking Street and Wua Lai Saturday Market, operate only on specific days.
Q.5. How do I get to Chiang Mai’s night markets?
The easiest ways are tuk-tuks, songthaews, or rideshare apps like Grab.
Q.6. Do I need to bargain at night markets?
Yes, bargaining is common, but do it politely and with a smile.
Q.7. What food should I try at Chiang Mai night markets?
Don’t miss khao soi, mango sticky rice, and grilled skewers.
Q.8. Are Chiang Mai night markets family-friendly?
Yes, many markets like Kalare Night Market and Ploen Ruedee have live music, seating areas, and food for all ages.
Q.9. What else can I do near the night markets?
You can visit attractions like Doi Suthep Temple, enjoy the Siam Dragon Cabaret Show, or take a half-day tour to the Hill Tribes before heading to the markets.
