Night Bazaar
The Night Bazaar is one of the biggest attractions in Chiang Mai. It is also called Kad Luang, or Royal Market. Located along Chang Khlan Road, between Tha Phae Road and Si Donchai Road, it is the place to look for Chiang Mai souvenirs - often the prices here are much lower than if you were to visit a handicraft factory. However, be sure to thoroughly check through your item before buying.
It used to be that bargaining was the norm at the Night Bazaar, but nowadays, prices have become fixed. Hence, buy only if the price is right. Nevertheless, there is no harm in asking for a discount and walking away to induce a price reduction. Often you will come across a few stalls selling the same item, so a bit of window shopping will help you determine the right price.
The Night Bazaar of Chiang Mai can trace its roots several centuries back. In the early days, traders from all around the Ping Valley would converge on Chiang Mai to trade. Traditionally, it was a place where different tribes come with their handicrafts such as hand-woven silks, hemp fabrics, parasols, woodcrafts, vases, celadons, and all forms of hilltribe artwork. Today, however, the night bazaar has become more a night market selling modern items and often fake branded goods.
In addition to the tribal trinkets and fabric, you will find branded items from Rolex watches, Nike shoes and Billabong t-shirts, all at unbelievable prices. The quality, of course, is on par to the price paid. Many a time, these cheap clothes quickly fade, the watches stop working within a few months, and the shoes start to disintegrate.
Nevertheless, Chiang Mai is not without quality branded goods, and even along the Night Bazaar stretch, there are boutique stores selling genuine branded goods and a much higher price than the roadside stalls, but nevertheless attractive compared to back home. This has attracted a large number of foreigners to scoop up genuine Timberland shoes, North Star windbreakers and other good quality items at very attractive prices.
When you are done with all the shopping, you can stop at Anusarn Market Food Street for dinner. There is plenty of choices here, though the most popular is the Thai steam boat.
Getting there
The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is located along Chang Khlan Road. It is very easy to reach. As Chiang Mai is not very big, most of the time if you are staying within the city, you can walk there from your hotel or guesthouse. If you are unsure of your direction, then hail a songthaew or tuk tuk to take you there. Any tuk tuk driver worth his salt should be able to know "Night Bazaar". |
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Scene at the night bazaar. (25 October 2006)
by Timothy Tye
Location of Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai
Location of Night Bazaar is shown in red borders
Colorful lamps sold at the night bazaar. (25 October 2006)
by Timothy Tye
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