3 GREAT LOCAL MARKETS AROUND CHIANG MAI
Chiang Mai has no shortage of markets, but for a truly local affair it pays to explore beyond the old city walls. With a perfect mix of authentic street food, handicrafts and traditional clothing, these are our three favourite local markets around Chiang Mai. They all take place at the weekend, so time your visit accordingly!
CHAMCHAA MARKET
Hidden away in an idyllic little spot east of the old city, Chamchaa Weekend Market’s emphasis is on artisinal produce and traditional crafts. The area is home to an artists’ community and the beautiful wooden shops and quaint ambience are reason enough to visit. You’ll find plenty of northern style Lanna clothing, jewellery, handicrafts and sweet treats. There’s even a very photogenic pizza bus!
After you’ve wandered the market, stroll up the track to the fabulous Meena Rice Based Cuisine for lunch. Sitting on a wooden deck, surrounded by water and greenery, it’s the perfect place to relax.
The focus is, naturally, on all things rice and the colourful presentation is exquisite. The taste lives up to the look, their dishes very much combining style and substance.
Saturday & Sunday 9am – 2pm
Meena Riced Based Cuisine open daily 10am – 5pm except Wednesdays
SAN KAMPHAENG SATURDAY MARKET
If you’re looking for cheap eats and a genuine local vibe, the Saturday night market in San Kamphaeng is hard to beat.
Known as ‘walking street’, the main drag comes alive with street food vendors and clothing stalls, aimed very much at a local crowd.
Cruise the street, munching as you go on delicious oyster omelette, crispy pork, mango sticky rice or whatever takes your fancy! You can also pick up some traditional Lanna clothing to keep you cool in the Chiang Mai heat – there’s a good range of styles to be found.
Head here in the late afternoon for the best choice.
Saturday 3pm – 9pm
Why not make a day of it and combine your visit with a trip to Muang-on Cave and the incredible Huen Jai Yong Lanna food restaurant for lunch?
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JINGJAI RUSTIC MARKET
A little north of the old city you’ll find the charming JingJai Rustic Market. This is more of a farmers market, with organic fruit and veg, specialty produce, handmade goods and a laid back vibe.
Live musicians provide a great soundtrack as you munch away or peruse handicrafts, jewellery and clothing. There’s plenty of areas to grab a seat and chill out.
This is also the only market we visited that proactively promotes sustainable packaging, with many vendors using banana leaf food trays and paper straws (although sadly not all). It’s best to get here early as many vendors start to pack up by noon.
Saturday & Sunday 7am-2pm
FIND THE MARKETS
Check out the map below for the locations of these three great local markets around Chiang Mai.
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Ask away if you have any questions about these markets, or if you know of other great markets around Chiang Mai, share with us in the comments below!
Amazing article, your blog looks awesome. Thank you for sharing the best information about this market with us and other travelers. By the way your pictures are very nice
Thanks very much. And you’re welcome, glad you found it useful.