Chatuchak Weekend Market

Introducing Chatuchak Weekend Market

Chatuchak Weekend Market is located in Bangkok, Thailand. It is one of the largest markets in the world and is located at the Old Northern Bus Terminal on Phaholyothin Road.

Specifically, you can take bus No. 29 or air-conditioned bus No. 59 from Bangkok International Airport and get off at Mo Chi Station.

There are more than 9,000 shops in the weekend market, ranging from household items to handicrafts, from clothing to jewelry, from animals to plants. You can buy anything you can think of here.

Because the venue is so large, it is best for visitors to bring a map, such as the "Nancy Chandlers Map of Chatuchak", to find their way clearly.

Climate and best time to travel

Tropical monsoon climate, suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Half a day, preferably in the morning.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

7:00 am to 5:00 pm, open only on weekends

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Most Popular FAQs for Chatuchak Weekend Market

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Chatuchak Weekend Market, also known as JJ Market, is one of the largest outdoor markets in the world. It was established in 1942 and has grown over the years to become a major shopping destination for both locals and tourists. It reflects the vibrant culture of Bangkok and is an iconic symbol of the city’s bustling street market scene.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Chatuchak Weekend Market is located near Mo Chit in northern Bangkok. It is easily accessible by the MRT (Mo Chit station), bus, or taxi. From the station, it’s a short walk to the entrance. If you're coming from other areas of the city, a taxi or Grab service is convenient, though traffic can be heavy on weekends.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Chatuchak Weekend Market is open every weekend (Saturday and Sunday) from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat and crowds, but late morning and early afternoon are also popular times for shoppers.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to Chatuchak Weekend Market. It is a free public market, and visitors can explore the different sections without purchasing tickets.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No tickets are needed in advance as the market is open to the public without any entry requirements.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Chatuchak Weekend Market, you will need around 2 to 4 hours, depending on your interest in shopping and the crowds. If you plan to visit specific sections or enjoy the food, allocate more time.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Clothing and Accessories sections, which feature trendy fashion, vintage items, and handmade goods.
• The Art and Antiques area, offering unique paintings, sculptures, and collectibles.
• The Pet section, where you can see a variety of animals including exotic pets.
• The Food section, which provides delicious Thai street food and fresh produce.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are not typically available at Chatuchak Weekend Market, as it is a self-guided experience. However, some local guides may offer informal tours in English if you arrange them in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• There are several areas where you can take great photos, such as the colorful clothing sections and the lively food stalls.
• The pet section is also a popular spot for animal photography.
• Taking photos with the market’s wide variety of products and colorful displays can make for fun, vibrant shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by exploring the food section for a quick snack or meal. After that, stroll through the clothing and accessories sections, followed by the art and antiques area. Finally, visit the pet section and the plant market to round off your experience.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Chatuchak Weekend Market is only open during the daytime on weekends, so there are no night visits or light shows. However, the market offers a lively atmosphere during the day with plenty of special shopping experiences.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Chatuchak Weekend Market can get extremely crowded, especially on Saturdays. To avoid the biggest crowds, try to visit early in the morning when the market first opens, or on Sunday, which tends to be a bit quieter than Saturday.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• There are plenty of food stalls and water stations throughout the market to stay hydrated and enjoy a snack.
• Rest areas are available in various sections of the market, where you can sit and relax.
• Toilets are located near the entrances and in different parts of the market.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Chatuchak Weekend Market is accessible for elderly visitors and children. However, it can be crowded, and the terrain is uneven in some places, so it might be challenging for visitors with disabilities. There are no specific provisions for wheelchairs, but there are some accessible paths.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used at Chatuchak Weekend Market. However, many shops and vendors also accept mobile payments (like QR code payments) and credit cards. It’s a good idea to carry cash in smaller denominations, as not all vendors will accept cards.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are numerous food stalls inside the market offering traditional Thai street food, such as Pad Thai, grilled meats, and Thai iced tea.
• Nearby areas like Mo Chit and Chatuchak Park also have cafes and restaurants where you can relax after shopping.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are widely available at Chatuchak Weekend Market, with various stalls offering plant-based dishes. Halal food can also be found, especially in the food stalls near the entrance or near Muslim-friendly areas.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Hotels near Chatuchak include The Quarter Ladprao by UHG, Chatuchak Palace Hotel, and The Living Room by Livotel.
• There are also plenty of guesthouses and budget accommodations available in the nearby Mo Chit area.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Chatuchak Park, a large green space ideal for a relaxing stroll.
• The nearby Or Tor Kor Market, which offers fresh produce and gourmet food.
• The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) is also a short distance away and can be a nice cultural stop after shopping.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are plenty of souvenir shops inside the market selling Thai handicrafts, jewelry, local artwork, textiles, and other unique items. You can also find a variety of traditional Thai clothing and accessories.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• The MRT (Mo Chit station) is the best option to continue your trip to other parts of Bangkok, offering easy access to the city center and other tourist attractions.
• Taxis and Grab cars are also available for further travel around the city.