Joanna James
With over 15,000 stalls, Chatuchak Market is one of the largest weekend markets in the world. You may not have time to browse all the shops, but these top picks should be part of your itinerary.
If you’re hoping to stumble upon something unique to take home, visit Section 2. It’s packed with everything you could think of, from vintage-style clothes to handmade gift items to collectables. This part of the market offers a collection that can be described as unique, retro, and rare. When it comes to clothing, you’ll find a large assortment of vintage shirts with classic logos featuring cartoon characters and the like. If you’re a fan of denim, you’ll find a wide range of denim jackets. Meanwhile, hats and sunglasses are stacked to one side, with all kinds of quirky, handmade jewellery populating several stores. In addition to clothes and fashion items, there’s a host of home decor, including retro posters, vinyl records, and handmade leather goods. Retro items sold at Chatuchak Market are unique in that local vendors add their personal touch to the merchandise.
Foodies flock to these parts of the market for a classic street-style culinary experience. Bring an empty stomach because there’s a lot you’ll want to try here. Sweet items are a favourite among shoppers. In Section 5, both locals and tourists queue up for shops selling mango sticky rice, fried bananas, and Thai iced tea. On the other hand, Section 6 offers a wealth of savoury food items. Pad Thai, Som Tam, and satay are among the favourites. This part of the market also serves fried insects for those looking for a truly exotic dining experience. Also, did you know that Chatuchak Market boasts a central location easily accessible from anywhere in Bangkok? For example, it’s only 30 minutes from Travelodge Sukhumvit 11, one of the hotels near Nana BTS.
Local artisans thrive in this section of Chatuchak Market. You’ll find a complete range of handmade items that are distinctly Thai. You can bring home wood carvings, silk scarves, ceramics, and handmade jewellery. Almost every piece you find here is made by a local artisan, so each item has that authentic Thai touch. Silk products seem to be particularly popular, as are Buddha statues. Section is a great place to visit if you want something that reflects Thai culture.
If your Thai friends say that you can find almost anything at the Chatuchak Weekend Market, you’d better believe it. Besides clothes, food, and artisan items, the market also has a section dedicated to flowers. To find fresh blooms, head to the Chatuchak Flower Market. Filled with all sorts of flowers and greenery, the market offers a therapeutic experience. The fragrance of the market will surely reach you from miles away. Roses and orchids make the atmosphere incredibly fragrant while also adding to its visual appeal. The market also offers a range of tropical plants, like cacti and bonsai. Apart from flowers, you’ll also find a variety of potted plants ideal for adding a touch of nature to your home. Gardening enthusiasts will find essentials such as pots, fertilisers, and essential tools too.
Book lovers will find themselves in paradise in Sections 1 and 27. There’s a massive collection of rare, second-hand books, as well as an array of new books. From travel guides and comics to art books, limited editions, and even books no longer in print, these areas of the market offer everything book lovers and nerds could possibly want. You’ll also find a variety of local literature, vintage magazines, and collectors' editions. If there’s a particular classic you can’t find in your home country, chances are you’ll find it in Section 1 or Section 27 of Chatuchak Weekend Market.
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.
