Not only the largest market in Thailand, Chatuchak also claimed as the world's biggest weekend market. WOW! It has around 15,000 booth stalls this market seem to unite all buyable items. From books to fashions. From antiques to pop-art modern items and many more. Basically, it has all things Bangkok can offer you.
The market which has operated since 1942 and only serves during the weekend (9 AM - 6 PM). As a tourist attraction itself, it is a MUST seen spot to come. Good news is, now Chatuchak has Friday Night market, from 10PM - 4AM.
After strolling around, it turned out for me Chatuchak is not the only place for shopping. It is also an interesting place for other things. Here are 4 things you can do at Chatuchak Week End Market beside shopping
Walk Around (get yourself a map)
Not a big shopper or doesn't feel like to shop? Just strolling and look around. But remember, this market draws thousands of people every day. Plus, Chatuchak is a huge place. It is understandable if you easily feel lost among the crowd.
The hot and humid weather of Bangkok can also contribute to your frustration during a long walk. Just for you to know, the market has 27 sections and arranged according to item category. Do you think you want to see them all?
So, pamper your self with comfortable shoes/sandals, cozy wardrobe, a map, and a bottle of water to keep you hydrated. Bring along a hat or an umbrella if necessary.
A map is available in the entrance or download here https://shopjj.co/travelmag/maps/
Art Gallery (see the artisan doing their art)
Not only selling, we able to find the artisan also doing their work here. It seemed they move the workshop to Chatuchak.
It was an interesting experience seeing them do the crafting. I can not help myself for not taking pictures. But we must pay attention because sometimes they do not want to be photoed.
No Photo sign also seen in several stalls. Better to ask first make sure it is allowed for taking a picture. That's how I did it anyway.
It was an interesting experience seeing them do the crafting. I can not help myself for not taking pictures. But we must pay attention because sometimes they do not want to be photoed.
No Photo sign also seen in several stalls. Better to ask first make sure it is allowed for taking a picture. That's how I did it anyway.
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| Shoe painter |
Street Food (eat like local!)
You REALLY can not miss this. Either inside or outside Chatuchak market, you can find food-drinks stalls even small cozy restaurants with live music. But for us (me, hubby and kids) street food hawker is more interesting.
Don't worry, a majority of the street food seller able to communicate in basic English; such "how much?" Or simply give a point to dishes you are interested in and giving a signal how many you're going to buy. Besides, the price tag makes the transaction a lot easier.
Don't worry, a majority of the street food seller able to communicate in basic English; such "how much?" Or simply give a point to dishes you are interested in and giving a signal how many you're going to buy. Besides, the price tag makes the transaction a lot easier.
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| Rujak (raw fruit salad) |
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| Assorted fries |
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| My son's fave: potato spiral |
Enjoy Chatuchak Park (don't miss it!)
Sitting in the park; watching people go by, surrounded by benign pigeons and seeing kids played at the playground, surely a rare experience. It is not a usual things I could have. Hard to believe the park locates right next to busy Kamphaeng Phet Road.
If we use BTS, we able to spot this 0.3 square KM Chatuchak Park from a distance when the sky train is about to approach the Chatuchak MRT Station.
With only sitting under the trees and feel the breeze; we almost forgot how hot Bangkok that day!
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| Surrounded with black friendly doves |
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| The Play Ground |
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| Minggle with local! 😎 |
