Night Bazaar, Chiang Mai

We visited the Night Bazaar on a holiday to Thailand this summer (2009). The lonely planet guide did not give it a particularly good rating but we were only there once. Having walked through the area we were slightly disappointed with the stalls selling exactly the same thing at initially extortionate prices. Bartering is a must and the stall sellers will almost be offended if you don't try. We had been to the Sunday market the day before and enjoyed this due to the more open environment and the better food stalls available (products were the same but the atmosphere seemed better). This maybe ... more

The Chiang Mai night bazaar is a wholly original and magical place to shop. As the lights dim in the Northern Thai city, traders fill the streets and underpass with a huge array of crafts, knock off clothing/watches and various types of art. As you walk through the narrowed aisles Thai sellers compete for your attention, from fake designer watches to meticulously carved wood sculptures - this market has it all. Particular mention must go to the hard working painters in the centre of the bazaar who offer good quality art reproductions or portraits at bargain prices (£15 for a 60cmx60cm print) ... more