7 Best Chiang Mai Night Markets (2026): Days, Hours & Food

Sunday (iconic): Sunday Walking Street (Tha Phae Walking Street)—around 4:00 pm to 10:30 pm; some stalls stay later.

Saturday (crafty and lively): Wua Lai Walking Street— from 4 pm to 10 pm.

Any weekday (easy and reliable): Chiang Mai Night Bazaar District—around 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm daily.

Food-first night (local dinner vibe): Chiang Mai Gate Night Market or Chang Phuak Gate Night Market.

Chill dinner and music seating: Kad Manee Night Market— 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm

If you like reading about Chiang Mai night markets, you might also want to read about Best Places to Shop in Chiang Mai: From Night Markets and Malls to Local Hidden Gems (2026 Guide)

The market follows the Old City’s historic spine—starting at Tha Phae Gate and stretching along Ratchadamnoen Road, which is why it’s so walkable and easy to navigate.

Over the years it has grown into a weekly gathering of makers, small artisans, and street-food vendors—more “handmade and local” compared to many standard night bazaars.

Some seasons include special city/TAT-led events (like light installations) that can change the vibe and timing—so it can feel different depending on the month you visit.

The Old City turns into a real street festival. Every Sunday evening, Ratchadamnoen Road becomes a long, pedestrian-only “walking street” packed with lights, stalls, and energy—more like a weekly celebration than just a market.

Handmade crafts are the main event. It’s one of the best places in Chiang Mai to shop directly from local makers—art, textiles, jewelry, soaps, small décor—so your souvenirs feel personal, not mass-produced.

The route is iconic and easy to love. The market runs through the heart of the walled Old City from Tha Phae Gate along Ratchadamnoen Road toward the central Old Town/temple area—so you get a “Chiang Mai at night” stroll while you shop.

You get culture with your shopping. Along the way you’ll find live music, local performances, and a mix of locals and travelers that gives the market its signature vibe.

Food breaks feel part of the experience. It’s not only street snacks—there are also temple-courtyard areas and dedicated food zones where you can slow down, sit, and taste a lot in one loop.

The full walking-street stretch: Start near Tha Phae Gate and wander along Ratchadamnoen Road toward the Old City temples—this is the classic “one long, lively street” experience. Keep in mind that Ratchadamnoen Road is the Old City’s most popular road.

Handmade, Chiang Mai-style crafts: Look for artisan stalls selling ceramic, wood, silk/textile, metal, and paper crafts—many are genuinely made by local makers.

Indigo and hill-tribe patterns: A standout shopping zone for indigo-dyed clothing, patterned textiles, and easy-to-wear pieces you’ll actually use.

Silver jewelry and small “giftable” finds: rings, earrings, bracelets, plus handmade soaps and little lifestyle items—great for quick gifts and easy packing.

Street food: There are so many street foods that you’ll find something you like for sure. The most important thing is a lot of the street food found here can’t be found at your normal market or street vendor.

Quick foot/shoulder massage break: There are massage stalls right in the walking street. It can’t get any more convenient than that!

The vibe: Street performers and the crowd energy are part of the fun—pause, watch, then keep drifting.

Handmade crafts Look for small, packable pieces made from wood, coconut shell, ceramics, fabric, or paper—things like carved trinkets, little bowls, ornaments, and simple home décor

Local art you can frame You’ll often find mini paintings, prints, postcards, and live sketch/caricature stalls. These are great because they’re lightweight and feel more “one-of-a-kind” than mass souvenirs.

Hill-tribe style textiles & bags: One of the most popular buys is woven pouches, embroidered bags, coin purses, wallets, and fabric accessories. Quality varies a lot—pick ones with tight stitching and clean edges.

Jewelry (especially simple everyday pieces) You’ll see plenty of rings, earrings, bracelets, and necklaces in different styles—from minimal to boho. If you’re buying silver, ask what it’s made of and check the clasp/finish closely.

Bath & “nice-smelling” souvenirs: These are classic Sunday market purchases: flower-shaped soaps, balms, oils, and candles—easy to gift and easy to carry.

Small “Chiang Mai” souvenirs (budget-friendly): If you just want quick gifts, magnets, keychains, tiny elephant crafts, and cute handmade bits. Pick the ones that look handmade/painted rather than factory-perfect.

4:00 pm – 10:30 pm every Sunday (some stalls stay later)

Getting there (one way)

Red songthaew (shared pickup taxi): ~30–100 THB depending on distance/negotiation

(If you take a Grab, it varies a lot by distance and traffic.)

Food & drinks

Street snacks: often ~20 THB each

Bigger street-food items / simple meal: commonly ~60–150 THB (varies by stall and what you pick; prices are usually shown)

Drinks (tea/juice/smoothies): roughly 30–80 THB (typical market range)

Shopping (souvenirs, crafts, clothes)

Small souvenirs (keychains, magnets, little crafts): 50–200 THB

Handmade items/decor/nicer crafts: 200–1,000+ THB

Clothes/bags/accessories: 150–800+ THB

Bargaining is commonly expected for non-food items (especially if buying multiple pieces).

What it is: Wua Lai Walking Street is Chiang Mai’s Saturday-night walking street, held along Wua Lai Road just outside the Old City near Chiang Mai Gate.

Historic roots: The Wua Lai area has long been known as a traditional silversmith neighborhood, with generations of local artisan workshops.

Key landmark: Wat Sri Suphan (the “Silver Temple”) is closely tied to this craft heritage and is one of the area’s most recognizable symbols.

How it became a walking street: In the mid-2000s (often noted as organized since 2005), the road began being closed to traffic on Saturday evenings to create a night market, often seen as a “sister” to the Sunday Walking Street.

It’s Chiang Mai’s “silver street.” Wua Lai is known as a traditional silversmith community, and the market reflects that—it’s great for silver jewelry, metalwork, and craft pieces that feel genuinely local.

You can pair it with the Silver Temple. The walking street runs right by Wat Sri Suphan (the Silver Temple), so you can mix market time with one of Chiang Mai’s most unique temples in the same evening.

More “local Saturday night” energy. Compared with the Sunday market, Wua Lai often feels a bit more relaxed and community-driven—still lively, but easier to browse without rushing.

Super convenient location near Chiang Mai Gate. It’s just outside the Old City on the south side, making it easy to reach on foot or by a quick ride.

Silver Street Shopping (the signature of Wua Lai): Browse handmade silver jewelry, engraved silver pieces, and traditional crafts—this neighborhood is known for its silversmith heritage.

Street food “tasting walk.” The street food here is different from the Sunday street food and has less variety but is still something you shouldn’t miss.

Local crafts and wearable finds: Expect artisan stalls with handmade goods, textiles, small gifts, and souvenirs—often easier to browse than the bigger Sunday market.

Start near Chiang Mai Gate and just flow with the street: The market runs along Wua Lai Road, beginning close to Chiang Mai Gate—easy to reach from the Old City.

Silver goods (the signature buy)

• Silver jewelry: rings, earrings, bracelets, and pendants—many stalls sell handmade pieces and engraved designs.

• Silver décor/small home items: engraved plates, ornaments, and traditional-style silver pieces that feel “Chiang Mai” rather than generic souvenirs.

Lacquerware & northern-style home décor

• Bowls, trays, and decorative items—great as gifts, and Wua Lai is known for silver and lacquer shopping.

Handmade crafts (easy-to-pack gifts)

• Wood/bamboo crafts, carvings, small décor pieces, and unique handicrafts from local makers.

Textiles, bags, and wearable souvenirs

• Handcrafted textiles, embroidered pouches, tote bags, scarves, and casual market clothing (good variety, lots of styles).

Local art & prints

• Small paintings, postcards, prints, and handmade art pieces—lightweight and more “one-of-a-kind.”

Local snacks

• Dried fruits, coffee beans, and flavored teas—simple, packable, and easy to share.

Getting there (one way)

Red songthaew (shared truck taxi): often around 30 THB/person within the city, but in practice can be ~20–100 THB depending on distance and negotiation.

Food & drinks (at the market)

• Small snacks: can start around 10–50 THB (yes, some are very cheap).

• Most street-food items: commonly ~40–100 THB.

• Juice/smoothies: often around ~40 THB (varies by stall).

Shopping (souvenirs, crafts, clothes)

• Small souvenirs / easy gifts: ~100–300 THB is common

• Handmade crafts/decor: ~300–1,000+ THB

• Silver items: can go higher depending on size/quality

Expect bargaining for non-food items.

What it is: The “Chiang Mai Night Bazaar District” is the city’s best-known evening shopping zone along Chang Khlan Road, made up of the main Night Bazaar strip plus nearby complexes like Kalare and Anusarn.

How it started (late 1970s): The district’s story is often traced to 1977, when tour buses regularly stopped at the Chiang Inn on Chang Khlan Road—local vendors (many tied to craft outlets in San Kamphaeng) began selling to tourists returning to the hotel at night.

From stalls to a real “district”: As the market grew, it expanded into the area where the current Night Bazaar building stands, with land development and more permanent structures turning it into a major nightly market zone.

Kalare’s role (late 1980s): Kalare Night Bazaar was built in the late 1980s as part of the district’s expansion (later relocating to the opposite side of the road). Today it’s known as a more contained/indoor-style market with dining and shows.

Anusarn’s role (early 1990s): Anusarn Market expanded in the early 1990s with a stronger pull toward food outlets and evening entertainment—now it’s widely associated with street food and performances alongside shopping.

Why it became famous (mid-1990s boom): Chiang Mai’s infrastructure and international promotion around the 1995 SEA Games helped accelerate growth, with the Night Bazaar area drawing a huge number of operators and stalls nightly.

What it feels like today: It functions as a nightly bazaar spanning multiple blocks—street stalls, adjacent markets, and food courts—best for souvenirs, handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and lots of casual eats.

It’s a whole evening district, not just one market. You can browse the main Night Bazaar along Chang Khlan Road, then duck into Kalare and Anusarn for more stalls, food, and a slightly different vibe—without changing areas.

Open every night—easy to fit any itinerary. Unlike the weekend walking streets, this area is known for being a go-to night option on regular weekdays too, making it a dependable “what to do tonight” plan.

Best mix of “shop + sit down + chill.” Kalare is often described as a semi-covered bazaar with casual eateries and occasional performances, while the wider district offers everything from quick street snacks to full meals.

Great when weather is unpredictable. The covered/semi-covered sections (especially Anusarn) make it one of the easier night-market areas to enjoy even if it rains.

Handicrafts + “made while you wait” finds: This district is best for classic souvenir browsing—handmade crafts, small gifts, and the fun “night-market treasure hunt” vibe

Kalare Night Bazaar for the easiest dinner base: When you want a break from walking, Kalare’s covered area is a comfortable place to sit down and sample lots of food choices (Thai + international).

A Muay Thai night (Kalare or Anusarn): If you want a high-energy night out, check a fight at Kalare Boxing Stadium (often listed on set nights) or the Anusarn Market boxing stadium for a convenient “market + show” combo.

Anusarn Market’s “shopping + entertainment” zone: This is the part of the district that blends browsing with live entertainment—live music/traditional performances and cabaret-style shows show up here.

Northern Thai handicrafts & home décor (best “Chiang Mai” souvenirs)

• Wood carvings, small décor pieces, carved trinkets

• Pottery/ceramics, decorative bowls/plates

• Lanterns and market-style décor items

• Traditional umbrellas (great gifts if you can carry them)

Textiles, scarves, and hill-tribe style bags

• Embroidered pouches, coin purses, tote bags

• Silk-style scarves, woven/embroidered fabrics

• Cushion covers and easy-to-pack fabric souvenirs

Silver jewelry & small accessories—rings, earrings, bracelets, pendants

Casual market clothing (cheap and fun) – Cotton shirts, comfy pants (including “elephant pants”), and easy travel clothes

Art, prints, and handmade “one-off” pieces—Paintings, prints, small sculptures, handmade decorative items—good if you want something that feels less generic clothes

Leather goods & gift-y accessories—Wallets, small bags, belts, sandals

Getting there (one way) – Red songthaew (within the city): ~30 THB/person

Food & drinks

• Kalare food center/stalls: many dishes are ~50–100 THB

• A “decent meal” often lands around ~150 THB, and a beer/cocktail around ~80 THB (example from reviews)

• General note: Night Bazaar area food is often pricier vs. local street-food spots

Shopping (souvenirs, clothes, crafts)

• Small souvenirs/gifts: ~100–300

• T-shirts / casual clothes: ~200–800

• Handmade crafts / decor: ~300–1,500+

What it is: Chang Phuak Gate Night Market (often called the North Gate Food Market) is a nightly street-food stretch that sets up just outside Chiang Mai’s North Gate, along the moat/road by Chang Phuak Gate.

Historic setting: The market sits beside Chang Phuak Gate (“White Elephant Gate”), one of the Old City’s historic gates on the 700+ year city wall, traditionally regarded as an important northern entrance (including royal/state use in local histories).

How it became “a market”: Rather than being a single built market hall, it grew organically as evening food carts and stalls gathered near the gate—eventually becoming a well-known late-night food stop for both locals and visitors.

What made it famous: A handful of iconic vendors turned the area into a must-visit—especially Khao Kha Moo Chang Phueak (the “cowboy hat lady” pork leg rice stall) and Suki Chang Phuak, which is known for setting up in the evening (around 5 pm) near the gate.

A long-running street-food culture: Some stalls here are of “legend” status in Chiang Mai—like a Thai dessert stand Citylife notes has been selling family recipes for 30+ years, showing how deep the local food roots go in this spot.

The vibe today: Simple, open-air, fast-moving street food—order at the cart, sit at shared tables, and eat your way through classic Chiang Mai late-night favorites.

It’s Chiang Mai’s most “pure street-food” night market. This spot is all about eating—quick stalls, big aromas, locals lining up, and that classic late-night supper vibe right by the Old City’s north gate.

Home to famous “pilgrimage” vendors. The market is known for legendary stalls like the Cowboy Hat Lady’s khao kha moo (braised pork leg over rice) and other must-try classics that people specifically come here for.

Budget-friendly and satisfying. It’s often praised for being cheap for how good it is, with many dishes in the everyday street-food price range—great for trying multiple things in one night.

Open most nights and runs late. Unlike weekend-only walking streets, this is a dependable “any-night” food stop—typically starting around early evening and going late.

The “Cowboy Hat Lady” khao kha moo (braised pork leg over rice)—it’s the signature must-try here, and it often sells out if you go late.

Suki Chang Phuak is probably the most famous Suki stall in Chiang Mai.

Classic Thai street-food energy by the moat: you’re eating right outside the Old City wall—simple tables, smoky woks, quick service, and a very local vibe.

Budget-friendly bites: it’s known for being cheap and filling, perfect for an easy dinner night without planning.

The “Cowboy Hat Lady” sells Khao Kha Moo.

Suki Chang Phuak sells Thai suki.

Pad Thai and quick wok dishes

Sweet finish: mango sticky rice + crepes/roti + Thai desserts

Fresh fruit shakes and Thai iced drinks

Getting there (one way)

• If you’re already in/near the Old City: often 0–60 (walk, or short ride)

• Red songthaew in the city: typically ~30 THB/person per ride → ~60 THB round trip

Food & drinks (this market is famous for being cheap)

• Most dishes: about 40–50 THB

• Many stalls still keep dishes under ~70 THB

• Small snacks/desserts: commonly 20–50 THB (varies by stall)

What it is: Chiang Mai Gate Market (often called Pratu Chiang Mai Market) is a local market zone by the South Gate of the Old City that’s known for being lively both in the early morning and again in the evening.

Where it is: It sits just outside Chiang Mai Gate, along the moat/road on the southern edge of the Old City, making it one of the most convenient “walk-to” markets if you’re staying inside the walls.

Morning Market (local fresh market): In the morning, it functions like a classic neighborhood market—vendors selling fresh produce, flowers, ingredients, and simple breakfast items, starting very early.

Evening Market: Later in the day, the same area transforms into an evening street-food scene, with rows of food stalls that come alive around late afternoon/early evening.

Why it’s a “must” in the Old City: It’s one of the easiest places to experience everyday Chiang Mai food culture right next to a historic city gate—casual, open-air, and very local-feeling.

It’s two markets in one place. In the early morning, locals come for fresh produce, meat, and ingredients; then in the evening, the same area turns into a lively street-food hub.

One of the most “local” food experiences near the Old City. It’s known for simple, authentic dishes and everyday pricing—great value compared with more touristy night-market zones.

Perfect for tasting lots of Northern Thai snacks in one stop. The night market is food-first: you can walk stall to stall and try classics (and plenty of quick bites) without committing to one restaurant.

Super easy to reach (especially if you’re staying in the Old City). It sits right by Chiang Mai Gate on the south side of the moat—ideal for a quick dinner mission or a casual “let’s see what smells good” walk.

Come for a full “street-food tasting walk”: this market is all about quick, cheap bites—order 3–5 small dishes from different stalls instead of one big meal.

Grilled and smoky favorites: keep an eye out for the grilled seafood and other hot-off-the-fire stalls (they’re often the ones with the biggest crowds).

Northern Thai hits in one place: look for classics like khao soi, sai oua (northern sausage), and spicy salads, plus plenty of “snack” options.

Fruit shakes and smoothies: perfect between spicy bites—cheap, cold, and everywhere.

Northern Thai must-tries

• Khao Soi (Chiang Mai’s famous curry noodle soup)

• Sai Oua (northern herb sausage) and other grilled sausages

Grilled and smoky favorites:

• Grilled seafood

• Thai Grilled pork and Chicken

Sweet finish + drinks:

• Mango sticky rice

• Thai desserts

Meals: ~30–80 THB

Drinks/smoothies: ~25–40 THB

What it is: Kad Na Mor Market (กาดหน้ามอ)—widely known as Malin Plaza—is a daily evening market in the CMU/Nimman area, popular for both street food and budget shopping.

Where it comes from: The name “Kad Na Mor” is local shorthand for a market “in front of the university gate” (Kad = market), reflecting its location by Chiang Mai University’s main gate on Huay Kaew Road.

Why it became a local favorite: Because it sits right by CMU (Chiang Mai University), it naturally evolved into a student hangout—affordable eats, trendy stalls, and a lively after-class vibe that feels more local than the Old City night markets.

What you’ll typically find: A mix of clothing/accessories stalls, secondhand finds, and a large food court area—good for casual “walk, snack, shop” nights.

When it runs: It’s generally an evening-only market from late afternoon to late evening.

A real “student night market” vibe. It sits right by Chiang Mai University’s main gate on Huay Kaew Road, so the crowd is mostly students and locals—young, lively, and very Chiang Mai.

Seriously good value. Because it caters to students, prices for street food and casual shopping tend to be budget-friendly (great for trying many small bites).

Less touristy, more local. Compared with Old City walking streets, it’s often calmer and less crowded—perfect if you want an everyday local market feel.

Food variety goes beyond Thai. You’ll find classic Thai street food alongside international options (Japanese/Korean and more), so groups can eat happily even with different tastes.

Thai and international snacks in one place: You’ll see plenty beyond Thai basics—many guides mention a mix including Japanese and Korean vendors alongside Thai street food.

Budget-friendly “trendy finds”: Expect lots of affordable clothing, accessories, and small lifestyle items—popular with students and easy for quick shopping.

Secondhand/cheap clothing corner: If you like hunting for deals, this is a good spot to browse low-cost and secondhand-style items.

Affordable trendy “student fashion”—T-shirts, casual sets, pants/shorts, light dresses, shoes/sneakers, and simple sandals

Street food—Expect lots of cheap, fast, made-to-order food—Thai staples plus fun “student-style” snacks and international bites at friendly prices. Here are some of the street foods you might be able to get here, such as grilled skewers, noodle and rice dishes, desserts and baked sweets, and fruit smoothies.

Accessories that are small, cheap, and cute. Such as Bags, wallets, coin pouches, belts, Hair accessories, earrings, rings, socks, hats

Phone cases and small electronics.

Beauty & cosmetics (Thai brands and budget picks)

Getting there (round trip)

Red songthaew (within the city): ~30 THB/person per ride → ~60 THB round trip

Food & drinks

Kad Na Mor is generally “surprisingly low cost” / student-friendly.

Typical spend:

• Snack / small bite: ~35–50 THB

• Most street-food items: ~50–100 THB (varies by stall)

• Juice/smoothie: often ~50 THB

Shopping

You’ll find clothes, accessories, cosmetics, and small gadgets—aimed heavily at students.

Typical ranges (very dependent on what you buy):

• Accessories/small items: 50–200 THB

• Clothes: 150–600 THB

• Cosmetics/beauty items: 50–300 THB

What it is: Kad Manee (Kadmanee) is a local-style night market and open-air food court in the Hai Ya area (south of the Old City), popular for casual dinner, snacks, and light shopping.

How it began: It was introduced as a “new” Chiang Mai night market project around 2018, created as a place to stroll, eat, and hang out in the evening.

Signature layout: The market has two main zones—a front zone with market-style stalls and a back zone with larger food spots and seating, with decorative lighting that makes it feel extra nice after sunset.

The vibe: More relaxed and local than the biggest tourist markets—people come to pick food first, then sit and chill rather than “rush-shop.”

Lakeside “picnic” atmosphere. The market is set around a small pond, with plenty of open-air seating that feels more like hanging out than rushing through stalls.

Food first, easy to settle in. It’s a street-food market where you can grab skewers, snacks, and full meals—then actually sit comfortably and enjoy them (not just walk and eat).

More local, less touristy energy. Many visitors like it because it feels calmer and more like a “local night out” than the big tourist-heavy markets.

Super convenient if you’re near the airport area. It’s commonly described as close to Airport Plaza / the south-of-town area, so it’s an easy dinner option without going into crowded zones.

The lakeside seating vibe: Grab a table around the water—it’s the signature “relaxed open-air dinner” feel here.

A true local-feeling food night: great when you want a night market dinner that’s less touristy and more everyday Chiang Mai.

Easy dinner base: It’s more than quick bites—there are spots where you can sit down properly (and even just have a beer if you feel like it).

Grilled skewers and Seafood

Classic Thai street food—expect plenty of made-to-order staples like Pad Thai and other wok dishes—simple, filling, and perfect for sharing.

Refreshing drinks and coconut-based sweets & dessert snacks.

Handmade clothing & small artisan items

Transport (round trip)

Red songthaew (within the city): 30 THB/person per ride → ~60 THB round trip

Food & drinks – Kad Manee being a local focus market, is pretty “cheap and reasonable.”

• Most dishes: ~40–100 THB

• Fruit shake/smoothie: ~20–50 THB (often ~50 for many juices/smoothies)

• Dessert (e.g., mango sticky rice): ~40–50 THB