Just like every other Night Bazaar you’ll find in Thailand, the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is the city’s OG tourist trap, in all the best ways possible. Open most nights and sprawling across a few city blocks near the Ping River just east of the Old City, the market presents a dizzying mix of elephant trousers, tools and trinkets, tailors, electronics and toys, as well as a fair few vendors peddling knock-off bags, shirt, trainers and accessories. If that’s not your thing, duck down one of the many side alleys and find the real ‘gems’ of the market – art, antiques, bizarre decor and a number of hidden beer gardens. Kalare and Anusarn food courts also serve up a tasty selection of papaya salad and grilled meats with occasional pairings of boxing, cabaret or live music performances. Needless to say, this market is a fever dream of commercialised culture, but hey, it wouldn’t be a Thai city without one.
Time Out tip: Most vendors overprice their goods with the expectation of haggling. However, people in the north are less aggressive in the markets than those elsewhere, so haggle politely with a smile for best results.
Every night, busiest at weekends. Chang Khlan Road. 5pm-11pm