CHATUCHAK MARKET

Description

Essentials about Chatuchak Market in brief

Bangkok is known to be a shopper’s paradise. The true shopping El Dorado of the Thai capital is definitely Chatuchak Market. With over 15,000 stalls on an area of more than one square kilometer, it is the largest market in Thailand and probably even in all of Asia. On weekends, around 400,000 locals and tourists make a pilgrimage to Chatuchak Market to fill their shopping bags and enjoy an absolutely unparalleled shopping experience.

Shopping on Chatuchak Market

On Chatuchak market, there is actually nothing that does not exist. Clothing, toys, electronics, cosmetics, food, porcelain, furniture, decorative items, antiques, art objects, books, plants – all this and much more is advertised at the countless stalls, sometimes loudly by the market criers. Yes, you can even buy pets here.

Small warning for travelers who are in Thailand for the first time: When buying clothing, leather goods, watches and jewelry, one must assume that it is counterfeit branded goods. However, at market prices, this is usually bearable. With more expensive items such as antiques and works of art, however, you should be careful not to get ripped off by the seller. Often fake goods are advertised as “original”. Also, when buying, you should make sure that the goods are not damaged. It is always an advantage to have someone at your side who is familiar with Thai market customs. In general, before you start shopping, you should “warm up” by doing a few rounds of the market. Many of the stalls sell the same or similar goods. This way you get a good feeling for what is on offer and can also compare one or the other price.

By the way, bargain hunters should show negotiating skills at the Chatuchak market. As a rule, the sellers set a double to triple the price for tourists. So you should not be afraid to push the price down (but still be polite – Thais are very polite people). It is always helpful to buy several things at the same time from one dealer.

You can’t really get lost on the market. On the one hand, the aisles of the Chatuchak market are mostly arranged at right angles, and on the other hand, the Clock Tower helps you find your way around. If you have a lot of time with you, you can explore the entire market in serpentine lines.

Chatuchak Park

And those who want to relax from so much shopping would do well to go to Chatuchak Park next door. It is a beautiful green oasis where you can relax your feet and your soul in the midst of exotic nature.