Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market Guide – Thailand

Nestled in the heart of Chiang Mai, the Sunday Night Market, or “Walking Street,” is an enchanting spectacle that transforms the city’s old town into a bustling marketplace. It is located on Ratchadamnoen Road, inside of the old city walls.

While living in Chiang Mai and during my recent visit, I loved going to the Chiang Mai Sunday night market. My friends and I would meet to grab some delicious food before walking to our favorite live music bar (Roots Rock) just a few blocks away.

The street is lively with food vendors, Thai crafts, and live performances from approximately 4 pm – 12 am every Sunday. I will explain what I mean by approximately later in the guide….

Let’s get into my tips for the Chiang Mai night market experience!

Hours of the Market

The market in Northern Thailand is open every Sunday night and starts at 4 pm. Not all stalls are open by 4 pm, but the crowds are much thinner. By 5 pm all of the stalls will be set up and that’s when performances will usually begin.

I have seen the night market close anywhere from 11 pm – 12 am. If the food stalls run out of food or the weather starts to get bad, they will close up sooner.

The Thai National Anthem is played over speakers at 6:00 pm. Out of respect, stop and stand where you are until the song is over.

The busiest time is from 7-10 pm but I have seen it busy as early as 6 pm. My suggestion is just to know that it will be crowded. Expect to walk slowly and wait for certain food stalls. It’s part of the experience!

Where is the Chiang Mai Night Market located?

The market is located inside the walls of the Old City and stretches from the Tha Phae Gate to the Wat Phra Singh Temple on Ratchadamnoen Road.

With my speed walking it takes about 15 minutes to walk the length of the market (1.1 kilometers), however, on Sundays, it’s very crowded so it can take you three times longer to stop for food and dodge many humans.

Why Visit the Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market?

The market is a sensory delight, where the sights, sounds, and scents come together to create a truly immersive experience.

This is the perfect place to try foods that you have never seen before. Prices can range from 20 – 50 Baht per item ($0.50 USD- $1.50 USD).

You can find meats and veggies on a stick, tons of handmade desserts, the infamously stinky durian fruit, sushi, and small plates of Pad Thai along with many other Thai delicacies.

Once your belly is full, explore the Artisans displaying their meticulously handcrafted wares, from intricate silver jewelry and handwoven textiles to unique souvenirs and traditional musical instruments.

You can also find cheap massages at the night market. I find it strange to get my feet massaged in front of hundreds of people walking by but to each your own! Massages can range anywhere from 150 – 300 baht ($5.00 – $10.00 USD).

How Can I Get to the Chiang Mai Gate Market?

On Foot | Songthaew | Tuk Tuk | Scooter | Grab

If you are not within walking distance of the Chiang Mai Sunday market, you have a few options to get to the area.

If taking a ride share, get dropped off a few blocks away from the market and then walk the remaining distance.

You can take a songthaew (the little red bus). It will cost around 30 baht ($1 USD) and they will drop you off a few blocks away from the market due to the traffic.

If you choose to hail a tuk-tuk, they are very noisy, and sometimes the driver’s pricing can vary. It all depends on the driver’s mood and how busy the area is. I have never paid more than $5 USD for a ride and that was at 3 am leaving a very busy area.

If you are staying further away, like in the Nimman area, use the Grab App (like Lyft or Uber) to hire a car. It will cost around $2.00-$3.00 USD.

If you don’t plan on drinking the night you go to the Chaing Mai night markets, then rent a scooter. You will find plenty of street parking within a few blocks of the market. Don’t try to park too close as you will be stuck in traffic forever.

Guide to Chiang Mai Sunday Walking Street

Are there bathrooms at the market?

Yes! However, most of them are squat toilets. Make sure you throw all tissues into the garbage can inside the stall and not into the toilet!!

What should I bring to visit the Sunday Night Market Chiang Mai?

• Tissues – You will need tissues for two reasons. The food vendors do not provide napkins or only provide one thin sheet of tissue. In addition, you need to bring your own toilet paper to public bathrooms.

• Cash – All of the stalls are cash only. I use the Charles Schwab Debit Card when I travel as they reimburse you for all ATM fees.

• Water bottle – I never leave home without my Hydro Flask water bottle. I’ve been traveling with the same one for almost a decade now. It’s really hot in Thailand so you want to stay hydrated!

• Bring a Reusable Bag: To carry your purchases and help reduce plastic waste.

What is not allowed at the market?

• Smoking of any kind is not allowed.
• Pets need to be left at home.
• Drinking in the street and or having an open container of alcohol is banned.

Can I drink alcohol at the Sunday walking market?

No! You will see signs warning people not to drink alcohol on Ratchadamnoen Road. Instead of drinking in the street, stop by one of the local restaurants or bars to avoid being fined up to 10,000 baht ($275 USD)!

Are there bars close to the Chiang Mai Sunday night market?

Yes, if you walk a few blocks north of the Chiang Mai Sunday night market you will find a popular bar area (with both locals and tourists). Zoe in Yellow (#5 on the map) is a club that plays loud music and down the street is a cozy Reagee bar with great live music (#6 on the map).

Are there other markets besides the Chiang Mai Sunday market?

Yes! There are over a dozen night markets in Chiang Mai.

The most popular one with tourists is the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar which is open 7 days a week (Number 1 on the map above). It can get very busy however there are many side shops you can check out to get away from the crowds.

If you need a taste of home (or to use an indoor toilet) check out the Red Lion English Pub for a quick pint.

If you want to hang with locals and ex-pats, while listening to live music with a full bar (and normal toilets), check out the Ploen Ruedee Night Market (#3 on the map above).

If you are only in town on a Saturday night, check out the Saturday Night Walking Market which starts at the south side of the Old City.

Final Thoughts (While I eat some crickets!)

Chiang Mai’s Sunday Night Market is more than just a shopping destination; it’s an immersive cultural experience that captures the essence of Northern Thailand. From the tantalizing array of street food to the exquisite handicrafts and vibrant live performances, every visit promises something new and delightful.

The Sunday Night Market is a testament to the city’s vibrant culture and community spirit, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Chiang Mai.

Enjoy the journey and create memories that will linger long after you’ve left its bustling streets!

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