Chatucak Weekend Market

By Nova Wijayanty

Chatuchak Weekend Market is a very popular shopping area and has reached a landmark status as a must visit place for tourists and foreigners in Bangkok. Shopping and exploring Chatuchack is like a treasure hunt. It sells everything under the sun: wood carvings, clay handicrafts, souvenirs, Buddhist amulets, wooden furniture, hand-made decorated flowers, trendy clothes, handmade accessories, silk, and food, just to name a few. It is really a shopping paradise for both males and females. It is great if you plan to spend half a day shopping there, mainly because you will be amazed by the treasures you find, so if you see something that you really, really like, just go ahead and buy it. The prices are just too good to pass up. Do not be stingy over 20-30 baht – it is not worth it.

Chatuchak's entrance

Some important tips: wear comfortable clothing, and remember that bargaining is mandatory. Chatuchak and other street stalls such as those on Khao Saan Road are actually selling the same goods, but fortunately the things sold at Chatuchak are generally cheaper than those in other similar markets. That’s why you should make sure that you bring enough cash and change, since you will be amazed by what you will see. Every single time you ask for a price, the seller will show you a calculator with the price on the screen and he will expect you to type how much you are willing to pay. It can take a while while the calculator is going back and forth, but it is definitely fun! The sooner you improve your bargaining skills, the more baht you will save. Do not forget how much you want the item, but be prepared to walk away.

Bracelets, bracelets, and bracelets

....and more bracelets

If the seller realizes you are willing to stand your ground, he might call you back and cave in. It works! It happened to Catharine Tanara. She got a 30% discount after acting in this way. Unfortunately, this tip does not necessarily work in other street stalls, especially the ones in Khao Saan Road, as merchants there are not that friendly. So bear in mind that bargaining in Chatuchack Market is a must. It is a paradise for bargain hunters. Also, do not forget to get a copy of the JJ Creative Market Map at the entrance as it is a very disorienting place of many narrow alleys.

Catharine's happy face after getting a 30% discount

After a long walk around the market, you can treat yourself with food. Chatuchak Weekend Market’s mango sticky rice, chocolate-covered bananas, and coconut snowflakes are highly recommended. Also, 100% mandarin orange juice and coconut water and available and so refreshing in this hot weather. Since you are in Thailand, you will never be far away from food.

Mango sticky rice

One last thing that is very important for all Chatuchak visitors to remember is to be careful regarding your personal belongings since pick-pocketing sometimes occurs there. However, despite that, Chatuchak is indeed a recommended destination for shopaholics. Shop till you drop!


Nova Wijayanty, 20, is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication and International Studies