Markets, Villages and Malls: Where to Go Shopping in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, the Rose of the North, offers a diverse and vibrant shopping scene that caters to every taste and budget. When you visit this captivating city, you’ll find yourself immersed in the heart of Northern Thailand’s rich artistic heritage, with access to exquisite Lanna handicrafts. Silverware shimmering with intricate designs, intricately carved wood sculptures, delicate mulberry paper creations, and elegant ceramics are readily available, crafted with skill and tradition passed down through generations. But the allure of shopping in Chiang Mai extends far beyond traditional crafts. The city’s bustling street markets, authentic wet markets, and modern shopping malls offer a kaleidoscope of experiences and delicious discoveries.

Imagine yourself one moment savoring the explosion of flavors in a plate of khao soi at a bustling weekend night market nestled within the ancient walls of the Old City. The next, you might find yourself mesmerized by the intricate process of crafting mulberry paper umbrellas in one of Chiang Mai’s charming artisan villages.

To truly experience the full spectrum of Chiang Mai’s shopping landscape, it’s essential to mix and match your destinations, exploring the diverse offerings of each unique location. Whether you’re seeking authentic souvenirs, high-end fashion, or simply a taste of local life, Markets, Villages and Malls: Where to Go Shopping in Chiang Mai has something to offer everyone.

Exploring Chiang Mai’s Shopping Destinations

Here’s a guide to some of the best places to indulge in retail therapy and immerse yourself in the local culture of this northern Thai gem.

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: A Timeless Classic

The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is a veritable institution, the original and arguably still the most famous night market in the city. Centered around a dedicated building on Chang Klan Road, its vibrant atmosphere spills out into the surrounding streets, creating an expansive shopping haven that encompasses street-side stalls and the interconnected Anusarn and Kalare markets.

Inside the main building, you’ll encounter a captivating mix of products ranging from the truly traditional – think exquisite jade jewelry and Northern Thai costumes – to the undeniably touristy, like the ubiquitous elephant pants and comfortable triangle pillows. Souvenir shirts and cell phone accessories also abound, catering to the needs of the modern traveler. To uncover the hidden gems, a bit of diligent searching is required. Look closely, and you’ll be rewarded with higher-quality finds such as luxurious silk shawls and meticulously detailed wood carvings.

Venture beyond the main bazaar building to explore the Anusarn Market, where you’ll discover an even wider selection of goods crafted by local hill tribes. For a culinary adventure, head to Kalare Market’s food court, renowned for its diverse array of authentic local eats. From savory noodle dishes to sweet treats, you can find anything that suits your taste.

The Night Bazaar comes alive every evening from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. For the best experience, arrive after 7 p.m., when all the shops are fully open and buzzing with activity. To avoid the largest crowds, consider visiting during the weekend, when many tourists are drawn to the walking markets in the Old City.

Central Festival Mall: A Modern Retail Oasis

For a dose of modern retail therapy, escape to the sprawling Central Festival Mall, located along the Superhighway, approximately two miles northeast of the Old City. This massive complex, affectionately known as "Fest" by locals, boasts an impressive 60 acres of floor space spread across five floors. It is home to over 300 stores representing some of the world’s most prestigious brands, an IMAX theater for movie enthusiasts, and even an ice skating rink for a touch of winter fun in the tropics.

Central Festival is arguably the best place in Chiang Mai to find the latest electronics. Major Japanese, Korean, and increasingly Chinese tech brands are well-represented within its stores, offering a wide selection of smartphones, laptops, and other gadgets. If you’re looking for well-known international brands, a food court, or a movie theater, this is the place to be.

Bor Sang Village: Where Umbrellas Bloom

Immerse yourself in the ancient art of crafting paper from mulberry bark at Bor Sang Village, nestled along the famed "Handicraft Highway" (Route 1006) in Sankamphaeng District, approximately five miles east of the Old City. This picturesque village is renowned for its exquisite handmade umbrellas, a tradition that has been passed down through generations.

Begin your visit at the Umbrella Making Center, where you can witness local artisans demonstrating each intricate step of the umbrella creation process. From the careful preparation of the mulberry paper to the delicate painting of vibrant designs, it’s a truly captivating experience.

While mulberry-paper umbrellas are Bor Sang’s most famous product, a wide range of other beautiful items are available. If you’re concerned about luggage space, consider purchasing mulberry-paper notebooks, stationery, or paper cards adorned with pressed flowers instead. These unique and charming souvenirs are a perfect way to remember your visit to Bor Sang.

Old City’s Weekend Night Markets: A Double Dose of Delights

Over the weekend, Chiang Mai’s Old City transforms into a shopper’s paradise with not one, but two vibrant night markets. On Saturday, the Wua Lai Road market unfolds south of the Old City, while on Sunday, the Tha Pae Gate market takes center stage. Both markets open in the late afternoon and close their doors around 11 p.m.

The Saturday Wua Lai market offers a stronger emphasis on traditional handicrafts, with many items sold directly by costumed members of local hill tribes. The food selection is also particularly diverse on Saturdays, allowing you to indulge in a wide range of culinary delights, from the tangy flavors of som tam (papaya salad) to the savory goodness of pad Thai and the creamy sweetness of coconut-based desserts.

The Sunday market is undeniably the busier of the two, unfolding right at the Old City’s main entrance. Beyond the usual array of street stalls selling souvenirs, traditional crafts, and fragrant soaps, you’ll find two temples along the route (Wat Phan On and Wat Sum Pow) that transform into bustling food markets. Additionally, numerous tents offer affordable foot massages, providing welcome relief after hours of exploring the market.

Ban Tawai Village: The Heart of Wood Carving

Ban Tawai Village stands as a testament to the success of the Thai Government’s "One Tambon, One Product" (OTOP) program, which provides incentives for communities to develop and nurture their local handicrafts. In Ban Tawai, the focus is on exquisite hand-carved wooden crafts, with artisans drawing inspiration from both traditional and modern designs to create stunning artwork from teakwood.

Many of the products crafted in Ban Tawai find their way to Thai craft stores throughout the country and around the world. By purchasing directly from the source in Ban Tawai, you can bypass the middleman and ensure that you’re getting authentic, high-quality goods.

A word of caution: While browsing the wares, it’s important to refrain from photographing the displayed items, as this is generally discouraged by the local vendors.

MAYA Lifestyle Shopping Center: A Fusion of East and West

An intriguing blend of Western and Thai brands awaits you at MAYA Lifestyle Shopping Center, located in the trendy Nimman Road area. Explore Maya’s diverse selection of health and beauty products, jewelry, clothing, and electronics as you ascend through its six floors. Rooftop bars offering stunning city views, a state-of-the-art movie theater, and a variety of restaurants complete the mall’s offerings.

Outside Maya, you’ll find a selection of night market options. NightOut Market is a small, upscale flea market that operates every Wednesday evening. For a more budget-friendly experience, check out Kad Rin Come Market, which caters to students with its mix of affordable clothes, electronic accessories, and delicious street food.

Warorot Market (Kad Luang): A Local’s Delight

For a truly authentic local shopping experience, venture to Warorot Market, also known as Kad Luang, located in Chiang Mai’s Chinatown, east of the Old City. From 4 a.m. to 6 p.m., Warorot Market caters to the needs of the city’s residents with its three floors of affordable produce, homewares, and local food.

Even visitors can appreciate the incredible range and low prices of the goods on offer. The ground floor is brimming with spices and packaged foods, while the upper floors feature clothing, personal care products, and hill-tribe handicrafts.

The neighboring Ton Lam Yai wet market is where locals purchase their fresh meats and vegetables. Next to Praisanai Road, the flower market operates 24 hours a day, filling the air with fragrant blooms. The surrounding area is home to traditional Chinese drug stores, fresh fruit stalls, and serene Confucian temples.

Jing Jai Market: A Breath of Fresh Air

In contrast to Chiang Mai’s often crowded markets, Jing Jai Market offers a more relaxed and spacious shopping experience. This 15-acre, open-air bazaar boasts over 500 shops, stalls, and stores. The complex is open daily, but on Saturdays and Sundays, you’ll find a vibrant Farmers Market offering organic fresh produce, and a Rustic Market showcasing the city’s largest collection of handmade items, including art, clothing, and accessories.

Jing Jai Market is located on Atsadathon Road, less than a mile north of the Old City moat. The weekend markets open as early as 6 a.m., but the more tourist-oriented shops tend to open around 10 a.m. To support sustainability, remember to bring your own canvas tote bag, as the market encourages shoppers to avoid using plastic bags.