Chatuchak Weekend Market

Thousands of stalls selling everything from vintage clothes to ceramics, plants and coconut ice cream.

Area

Markets

Start from

BTS Mo Chit / MRT Chatuchak Park

Distance

north Bangkok

Time needed

half a day

Best season

Weekends; mornings

Difficulty

Easy

Transport

BTS or MRT

Tickets & rules

None

Why go

Chatuchak, or JJ, is one of the largest markets in the world, a maze of covered sections selling clothes, home goods, art, antiques, plants and street food. It's chaotic, hot and a great place to find gifts.

Even if you don't buy anything, the people-watching and snacks make it worthwhile.

Different sections have different moods: vintage clothes and records, handmade ceramics, Thai silk and cotton, home décor, antiques, art galleries, and an enormous plant section with orchids and cacti. Food is everywhere, from grilled meatballs to fresh juices and coconut ice cream.

For many Bangkok residents, a Saturday at JJ is a ritual, so you'll see as many locals as tourists.

The story

The market moved here in the 1980s from Sanam Luang. Over time, it became a meeting place for young designers, collectors and small businesses.

Many Thai designers started with small stalls at Chatuchak before opening shops elsewhere.

Before Chatuchak, the market was held at Sanam Luang, the big field in front of the Grand Palace. It moved to the north of the city in the late 1970s and early 1980s, and grew into the huge market you see today.

Next to the market, Chatuchak Park, Queen Sirikit Park and the Railway Park form a large green area, a good escape from the crowds.

Getting there

Take the BTS to Mo Chit or the MRT to Chatuchak Park or Kamphaeng Phet; the market is right next to the stations.

The main market is open on weekends; some sections and a plant market open on other days.

A suggested plan

1. MorningArrive early before the heat; grab a map.
2. BrowsingPick a few sections that interest you; it's impossible to see everything.
3. LunchEat in the food sections; try coconut ice cream served in a coconut shell.
4. AfternoonRelax in Chatuchak Park next door.

Where to stay

Ari or Phaya Thai are close by, with good cafés.

Good to know

• Note your section number to find your way back.
• Haggling is polite and expected for some items.
• Shipping services in the market can send purchases home.
• Bring cash for most stalls.