Want to venture into Thailand’s biggest but don’t know what can you find at Chatuchak Market or where to start?
If shopping is your forte and you are not precious about being in an air conditioned shopping mall, then Chatuchak Weekend Market is for you. Take the plunge and set yourself a challenge to see what can you find at Chatuchak Market.
Situated in the north of Bangkok accessible via Mo Chit BTS Station and Kamphaeng Phet MRT Station, this sprawling market covers an impressive area of 68 rai or 35 acres. It has everything you could possibly imagine, plus some more thrown in for good measure. From Thai fishermen’s pants to goldfish, from antique ampulets to fake flowers, trinkets, craft items, foodstuffs and precious stones. The list goes on.
Maps do exist detailing where you can find specific items that you can find at Chatuchak Market. The beauty of the market though is that you stumble across some truly unique gems when you least expect it. So get stuck in and head into the unknown to unearth some hidden treasures.
1. Furniture
The quieter, and more manageable, area of the market has to the home décor section. Open daily, here you can find copies of designer items such as lighting, chairs, and chest of drawers. There are some traditional pieces on offer too plus some bespoke options so you can get what you like exactly as you wish. Head to the north section of the market at Jatujak Plaza where many of the shops are air conditioned making the ideal retreat from the heat of the market.
2. Art
Wanting to brighten up your home with some art? The art corner not only has a chilled out personality where the artists lounge on deck chairs, but is adorned with some stunning pieces of art of various styles and sizes. Enter the market at gate 2 on Kamphaeng Phet, turn right and you will be immersed in the market’s creative quarter. Meet the artist behind the piece and many are one-offs that add to their charm.
3. Clothes
Is your wardrobe looking a bit drab? Chatuchak Market had rows and rows of places to pick up the latest trends or clothes from eras past to update your wardrobe. Most clothes of similar styles are clubbed together in the same area but it is one place where you probably want to truly get lost in. Head to sections 5 and 6 for vintage menswear including jeans and footwear, sections 3 for more on trend items, and sections 18, 20 and 21 for clothes for your next beach holiday.
4. Hill tribe gems
Haven’t quite made it to the north of Thailand? No problem. Head to section 24 and there are stalls lined with the colourful designs from the north. Shop for handmade items, many intrinsic in design, that are crafted by Thailand’s hill tribes. Head pieces, small soft toys, bags, or clothing. All are embroidered in spectacular colours with incredible detail, and at at a reasonable price.
5. Kitchen utensils
There are numerous shops that stock everything from measuring jugs to baking tins, from kitchen scissors to hand whisks, woks, serving dishes, cups and cookie cutters. Section 19 is your best bet if stocking up your kitchen is on your agenda. Plus it will save you from the high price tags found in some of the city’s premier shopping malls.
6. Souvenirs
No trip to Chatuchak would be complete without some classic Thai souvenirs to take home. On many corners you will see lanterns and fairy lights for sale, pretty carved soaps, brightly coloured tuk-tuks nicely presented in a box and Thai boxing shorts. Do all your shopping in one swoop. Your friends will be amazed at what can you find at Chatuchak Market.
7. Porcelain
Chatuchak has some very affordable crockery and glassware. If you are looking for something a little more special then stick in section 19 and head to soi 7/1. Here you will find a vast choice in bowls, plates, platters, and other ceramic ornaments adorned with pretty blue and white patterns. Chinese in design, there are many styles to choose from to suit every taste and budget.
The more you explore this labyrinth, the more time you will want to spend here. I am sure you will be amazed at what you can find at Chatuchak Market but if it all gets too much, escape to JJ Mall. Situated on the outskirts of the market this air conditioned oasis awaits with a little bit of everything all under one roof.
