Joanna James
Starting as a small-scale flea market in Sanam Luang in 1942 this outdoor market was called Phahonyothin Market. It moved a few times to other locations and finally found Its niche at the present location in Chatuchak Park in 1982. Renamed Chatuchak Market in 1987, it has become one of the largest weekend markets in the world and one of the most popular in Bangkok. Here are some tips to skillfully find your way amidst a milieu of people for a few hours of exploring, shopping, dining and people-gazing.
Although it is known as a weekend market, the good news is it is open on some of the weekdays too. It operates with a full complement of stalls on Saturday and Sunday however, certain sections of the market operate on other days too.
Saturday & Sunday – 9.00 am to 6.00 pm (Every Section)
Wednesday & Thursday - 7.00 am to 6.00 pm (Only plants)
Friday - 6.00 pm till midnight (Wholesale Market)
It is best to arrive at the market during the early part of the day as stalls are full of goods and the crowds don’t build up until later. Furthermore, many stall owners want to have a good day and believe that the first sale brings them good luck so are happy to bring down the price.
Haggling is encouraged in this market. It is useful to know a few phrases of Thai that will help you in doing this with ease. Or use the calculator on your mobile to indicate the price you are willing to offer. However, be mindful that the prices are generally low at this market, hence be fair in your haggling.
As you commence exploring this vibrant market pick up a free printed map from Gate 1 Or if you prefer the map can be downloaded from the Chatuchak Market website and printed at your hotel in advance. This will help you to navigate your way to the sections of your choice.
• Books (sections 1, 27)
• Clothes & accessories (sections 2–6, 10–26)
• Handicraft Items (sections 8–11)
• Ceramicware (sections 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 25)
• Home Décor & furniture (sections 1,3,4,7,8)
• F & B Stalls (sections 2, 3, 4, 23, 24, 26, 27)
• Plants & garden accessories (sections 3, 4)
• Art & Art galleries (section 7)
• Pets & accessories (sections 8, 9, 11, 13)
• Antiques & collectables (sections 1, 26)
• Miscellaneous Items & Secondhand clothing (sections 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 22, 25, 26)
The map also provides the locations of restrooms, information counters, first aid points and banks onsite.
Built in 1987 to celebrate the 60th birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, this outstanding Clock Tower stands majestically at the heart of the market. It serves all visitors to the market in numerous ways.
• For friends who plan a rendezvous here this iconic tower becomes the meeting point.
• After a few hours of stumbling all over the stalls, the mini park around the clock tower offers a refuge for tired feet with benches while the beautiful flower beds and greenery offer a treat to your senses.
• When you feel you are somewhat lost in the massive market look out to the Clock Tower to gather your bearings before you proceed.
As you go about the market and perhaps visit it many times during your stay remember the following.
• Stay hydrated, have sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat on during the mid-day heat
• Most stalls may only accept cash, hence carry adequate local money. (Thai Baht)
• Spend time enjoying live music and dabbling in street food
Chatuchak Market is also known as Jatujak Market hence JJ Market is a nickname used for it by many. The market is designed well in a loop shape with the stalls on either side of the main walkway enabling easy movement and the ability to see shops on both sides.
Home to 15,000 stalls across 26 sections covering 35 acres of land is an impressive area to cover. The stalls stock clothing, fashion items, food stalls, home goods, art, antiques and practically every imaginable thing. While the range is magnificent, exploring it in its entirety can be overwhelming. As per the data, approximately 200,000 people visit the market each weekend.
Hence having a sound plan to explore this market is a prudent thing. That will enable you to experience the best sections of the market that interest you without rambling aimlessly. As you may want to visit this market more than once, find the best place to stay in Bangkok, close to the Chatuchak Park area. Maitria Hotels & Residences is one good option to consider.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
