With over 200,000 people flocking into Chatuchak Market every weekend, the Bangkok Marketplace has become the World’s largest Weekend Market. The Market has over 15,000 stalls which are spread across 35 acres and 26 sections which range from Food, Art, Antiques, Fashion and much more. The full Market Opening Times can be found here. For more information on the Market had to our Blog or if you have a question, head to our Contact page!
History
Field Marshal Plaek Pibunsongkhram was the third Prime Minister of Thailand who first came into office in December 1938. During his tenure, he decided that every town must have a flea market of their own to make it easier for locals to trade and boost the local economy. Bangkok was high on his agenda, so it was declared that a flea market would open up in Sanam Luang, which would become the city’s first market in 1942. Sundays at Chatuchak Market
In the coming months, the government changed the venue, as the site was needed for other special functions. They decided to move to Saranrom Palace, in the centre of Bangkok. It stayed there for eight years until it was moved again to Sanam Chai and then back to the original venue Sanam Luang.
The return was brief as Bangkok had its 200-year anniversary of the city; meaning that the market’s location had to be switched once more. In 1982, the market was moved as a permanent feature to Chatuchak. Five years later, the iconic Clocktower was built to celebrate King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s 60th birthday and the market was finally renamed, Chatuchak Market.
The popularity of the market has grown substantially since its relocation from Sanam Luang. The market regularly accommodates 200,000 tourists each weekend and has over 15,000 stalls making it the World’s largest weekend market.
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Opening Hours
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FAQ's
When is Chatuchak Market open?
Chatuchak Market opening times: Wednesday and Thursday (Plant section only) 7am-6pm Friday (Wholesale only) 6pm-12pm Saturday and Sunday (The whole market) 9am-6pm
Can I send my items directly home?
Various courier services are available at Chatuchak Market such as DHL, which will ship your items overseas. This service is not included in the price when you buy the item from the stalls.
Can I buy in bulk?
It depends on the stall owner, but in most cases, yes. A lot of the owners carry a limited number of certain products but it can be arranged so they can get more sent in for you to either pick up at the market or get sent to your address.
How long should I be there for?
The market is open for the majority of the day but it is recommended to allow half a day minimum to have a good look around Chatuchak. It takes at least 3 hours to briefly sweep around the market. For a deeper look it is advised you allow for 5 hours inside.
What should I wear?
Chatuchak Market is very big and requires a lot of walking in hot temperatures. It would be advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and light clothing that is suitable for the humid weather. Many Thais also frown upon tourists that do not cover themselves correctly. Men must not be topless and women must wear more than a bikini or swimwear.
When is the best time to go?
It is advised to go in the morning to Chatuchak Market. It gets very hot and busy in the mid-afternoon. You should allow the majority of the day to go to the market and leaving in the morning will allow you to relax as crowds of people start to enter around midday.
How should I barter?
Smiling and being polite is a good start to getting a deal. Don’t be scared to walk away if you are unsure with the price. You can shop around and see if you can get a better deal at another stall or you can always come back to renegotiate. Remember the stall section you are to avoid problems locating the stall.
Are prices negotiable?
Yes, unless it clearly states in the stall otherwise. Bartering is common across Thailand so remember to haggle for the best possible price.
