Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Successful exploration of the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar begins before dusk falls. Located on Chang Klan Road, just east of the old city’s moat, the bazaar truly springs to life after the sun sets. Weekdays offer a calmer vibe, while weekends bring large crowds and a festival spirit. The experience is free—just bring spending money and a healthy appetite for sights, sounds, and flavors.

• Best time to visit: Evenings from 6 PM to 10 PM, November–February for cooler weather
• How to get there: Local tuk-tuks, songthaews, Grab taxis, or a walk from Tha Phae Gate (about 10 minutes)
• Accessibility: Flat, walkable streets, but surfaces can be uneven and crowded; strollers and wheelchairs are possible with some patience
• Average visit duration: 2–4 hours, longer for those who linger over meals or live music

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar offers something for every kind of traveler. The main market spills from covered buildings onto the sidewalks, while side alleys and arcades hide surprise treasures. Past classic souvenirs, deeper corners reveal live performances, secret upstairs galleries, and fusion food stalls where old and new Thailand meet. Everywhere, vibrant lights set the stage for a celebration that stretches into the night.

• Anusarn Market: A covered section brimming with handicrafts, textiles, and local snacks
• Kalare Night Bazaar: A food court and artisanal area with everything from spicy khao soi to karaoke performances
• Street performers: Traditional Thai musicians, B-boy dancers, and portrait sketch artists along side streets
• Hidden gem: Shop for rare hill tribe jewelry or sample traditional Northern Thai sausage (sai ua) from tiny family-run stalls
• Photo opportunity: The golden glow and bustling crowds between Chang Klan Road and Loi Kroh Road after dark
• Cultural highlight: Watch master craftsmen at work carving soap or stitching silk on demand—sometimes right at their stalls