Bangkoks open-air markets are one of the citys true cultural highlights. There are more markets to explore here in the capital than a single visit permits. With that in mind, weve put together a short-list of markets worth visiting in an all-day tour “ starting early in the morning and finishing after dark.
Morning: Pak Klong Talad This is the largest fresh flower market in Bangkok, and it serves as the perfect place to begin an all-day market tour. Actually, its open 24 hours, so feel to come here as early in the day as youd like to. This is where virtually all of the floral shops in Bangkok source their fresh-cut flowers. Youll find lovely floral arrangements, wreaths and bouquets for making merit at local temples and shrines here. This market is chaotic in the wee hours of the morning (from 3 to 4 a.m.), and the scene slows down considerably outside of these hours.
Afternoon: Chatuchak Weekend Market Chatuchak Weekend Market (Also called JJ Market) is one of the largest markets, not just in Bangkok, but in the entire world. Theres a truly dizzying selection of merchandise for sale here “ everything from clothes to antique furniture to exotic pets. And its all housed (more or less) under one roof in a rambling covered marketplace. Just to give you an idea of how truly enormous this market is, consider the following:
- Covers 14 hectares
- Features 8,000 market stalls
- More than 200,000 shoppers visit in an average weekend
As the name of the market suggests, its only open on weekends (starting Friday evening), though portions of this eclectic market are open during some weekdays. But the full experience, plan on visiting on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon.
Evening: Khaosan Road After navigating the maze of alleyways and market stalls at Chatuchak, youll probably be ready for something a bit more laid back. Thats why were recommending you stop by Khaosan Road in the evening. Once viewed primarily as a place for backpackers to congregate and quaff cocktails from buckets, the scene has evolved a bit in recent years (though the party vibe is certainly still there). These days, youll find that the younger Thai crowd also frequents this area, which has prompted the selection of market stalls to become more diverse. Whilst Khaosan still has the predictable collection of Same-Same-but-Different souvenirs normally hawked at tourists, youll also find more interesting indie designer fashions, trinkets and jewellery on offer. But the real benefit of the Khaosan Road market is the chance to segue from an intense day of shopping to a more relaxed evening. Theres a great selection of no-frills restaurants serving a mix of affordable Thai food, Western favourites and cheap drinks “ against a backdrop of live music. Khaosans all about letting your hair down and having a good time, so it makes for an ideal nightcap after a day of shopping.
If youre staying at a Centre Point hotel in Bangkok, feel free to ask the staff for help planning an all-day market tour. They can assist with arranging transportation and make suggestions about other markets you can visit as well.
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