Chatuchak Market

 

Chatuchak Market is divided into 27 sections (each intended to sell a different kind of product, although these sections often overlap). These sections cross 65 small lanes from the main walkway encircling the market. These small lanes are numbered as Soi 1, Soi 2, and so on. While locating a particular product in the market might be difficult, the numbered roads and shops mean that it isn't too hard to find a specific store. A visit to the market is a full day's trip to explore all the shops adequately. We'd suggest coming early to Chatuchak Market to beat the crowds and spend the day wandering these lanes, even grabbing a bite at their many food stalls. The market is most prevalent during weekends.

The different sections are intended to sell various kinds of products. According to the Chatuchak Market website, the divisions are: 

• Section 1: Books, collectables, cafes, food shops
• Sections 2-4: Home décor, paintings and pottery
• Sections 5-6: Clothes, adornments and miscellaneous products 
• Sections 7-9: Furniture, handicrafts and antiques
• Sections 10-23: Clothes, household appliances, pet accessories and consumer products
• Sections 17-19: Fresh and dry food
• Sections 22-26: Furniture, crafts and antiques and Section 27 for books, food shops and collectables.

Public Toilets
Public toilets are available near the entry and exit gates of the market. You can use them for a nominal fee of THB 2.

Section Overlaps
As you can see, there are overlaps between the sections. Antiques, in particular, are prevalent sales here. However, it's best to stay cautious about these. Remember to always check your goods for any signs of damage as Chatuchak Market is notorious for re-selling factory rejects. As documentation of authenticity will be hard to obtain from these small shop owners, it always remains in question. If you are particular about buying antiques, you can choose to bring an expert along while shopping.

Pets Section

While it could be tempting to play with the adorable animals sold in the market and possibly take one home; do remember that Chatuchak Market's sections for pets and pet accessories are notorious for illegal wildlife. Research by animal welfare groups has found that this market houses multiple endangered species for sale. Stronger regulations by the Thailand government have improved the situation in recent years, but this continues to be a significant problem.

Clothing Lines

While shopping for clothes, don't be swayed by the brand names. Just like the case with antiques, the shops here often sell second-hand clothes, or factory rejects. Check the quality of the material and look for any signs of damage (loose threads, stains, missing zippers and the like) before you spend any money. The market could be a fun place for budget shopping but it isn't hard to be duped either.

Of the market's 15,000 stalls, at least 500 stalls are dedicated to food and drinks, which means that there are plenty of culinary delights to be explored here. From traditional Thai street food and seafood to continental and Spanish cuisine, you'll be spoilt for choice.

Coconut Indulgence
Coconuts are bountiful in Thailand and are very prominent in their cuisine. One of the most recommended food items at Chatuchak Market is their yummy coconut ice-cream. It is soft, juicy and a welcome change from the humidity of the market. There are multiple ice-cream vendors on the market where you can buy coconut ice-cream for approximately THB 60. Other Thai street foods include honey roast pork called 'moo yang' and water chest in gelatinous rice flour called 'red ruby'. They can be bought for THB 35 to THB 45 depending on the vendor.

Savoury Bites
For other delectable dishes, you can try the chicken noodle soup for THB 50. In Section 8, a Spanish food vendor sells delicious paella (a Spanish staple of seafood and rice) for THB 150. End the meal with fresh juices available for THB 30. There is a food stall called Mango Tango on the side-roads of the Chatuchak Market entry that specialises in scrumptious mango desserts. Their pricing starts at THB 39.

If the market should get too confusing, you can always refer to the Chatuchak Guide app. It includes a live map, search functions and regular updates on promotional offers. Available on both iOs and Android, it could be quite useful during your shopping trip. But if you'd like to shop old-school style, there are free maps available at the market's information kiosks.

• Be prepared to bargain a lot. Most items are massively overpriced. But with a little bit of convincing, you can get great deals for most things you purchase.
• Remember to dress smartly in light clothing. The weather can be hot and humid. Wearing sandals or sneakers is highly recommended.
• Carry a backpack to keep all your items after purchase. A lot of the shops will not provide carry bags.
• Cash is a must! Most of the vendors do not have card machines or other forms of electronic payment.
• Vigilance is an excellent trait to have when shopping here. There are a lot of pickpockets who hang around in the market area. So always be careful of your wallets, watches and mobiles while shopping.
• In the rainy season, the market area turns mucky. Most shops remain closed or close early. Avoiding the market during this time is highly advised.

To reach Chatuchak Market; you can take the sky-train (BTS) to Mo Chit station to exit #1 which is a short walk away from the market entry. Or you can take the subway (MRT) to Chatuchak Park station and walk from there. Both options are both cost and time-effective. If you'd like, you can take a local taxi although these drivers often charge inflated prices of THB 100 to the market.