Chiang Mai, a respite from the heavy-duty traveling one experiences in South Thailand, is a haven for backpackers and travelers. Situated one hour away from Bangkok by flight, Chiang Mai is a destination which is fast becoming famous with the crowd which wants to retreat from the hustle and bustle of the cities of Southern Thailand.
Nothing says a complete trip unless you take home some souvenirs from the city. So, when it comes to shopping in Chiang Mai, the possibilities are endless. Lined with several malls, boutiques, markets, and gallery-style stores, the city is a haven for all those shopaholics. From lacquerware pieces and embroidered bags to designer knock-offs, souvenirs, and handcrafted goods, there is a vast array of items for you when you go shopping in Chiang Mai. We have listed the must-visit places any shopaholic should visit when in Chiang Mai.
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Ideally located within walking distance from the airport, it provides a wide assortment of international and local brands. The five floors in the mall cover diverse shopping and entertainment options, including shops and boutiques, technology and gadgets, kid-friendly restaurants, and a seven-screen cinema. With some transport facilities running to and from the mall, it is quite easily accessible for people staying in the old town. Hourly shuttle bus services from hotels like Amora Thapae and Imperial Mae Ping further enhance visitors' commute to this mall.
Address: 2 Mahidol Road, Haiya, Muang District Hours: Monday-Friday: 10:30 AM-9:00pm, Saturday & Sunday & public holidays: 10:30AM-9:30PM
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The night market provides a glimpse of everything the city has to offer. Numerous vendors put up their stalls here, selling items ranging from Thai silk, shoes, CDs, spices, clothes and antiques. Bargaining is common in the market and you might require a few negotiation skills to get a good deal. The market also has some delightful Thai seafood sections and noodle restaurants. If you are in the city, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is a “can’t miss” experience.
Location: intersection of Thai Pae and Chang Klang Roads Hours: 6:00PM-10:30PM
3. Central Festival Chiang Mai
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Part of the triad of new glitzy malls, Promenade Mall and Maya Mall- Central Festival is a lifestyle shopping mall. Popularly known as the Fest or Festival, it houses numerous International brands like H&M, Topshop, etc., which are difficult to find otherwise in Chiang Mai. With IMAX- 3D, an ice-skating rink, and various Thai-Japanese and Korean eateries, the place has various things for people to engage in for a more wholesome shopping experience.
Address: San Dek Intersection, close to the outer ring road east of the Ping River. Hours: Monday-Thursday: 11:00AM-9:30PM, Friday-Sunday: 11:00AM-10:00PM
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Displaying the magnificent artwork and craftsmanship of the Northern Thai people, the streets of this place for shopping in Chiang Mai are buzzing with people as soon as it gets a little dark. With music being played by street buskers, the place is a magical one to be in despite the amount of walking it requires to really cover the market from all ends. Fresh fruit juice stands, puppeteers, handicraft products, and coffee shops highlight the market. Ratchadamneon Road is closed off to traffic whenever the market is open to allow the customers to freely roam around and shop without worrying about oncoming vehicles through the streets.
Location: Tha Pao to Ratchadamneon Road, Chiang Mai Old City Hours: 4:00PM - 12:00AM
5. Maya Lifestyle Shopping Centre
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Owned and operated by the MBK group, this place for shopping in Chiang Mai is nothing short of a luxurious dream for shopaholics. This mega mall has six floors of fashion, health and beauty, restaurants, entertainment, etc.
Some of the popular international brands like Lacoste and Adidas can be found here, along with stand-out Thai shopping outlets like Jaspal and Panpuri. The aroma of delicious food coming from famous restaurants and cafes is enough to make the whole experience of being in the mall enjoyable. Japanese food lovers can satiate their hunger in Fuji, Miyabi, and Shabushi, among other eateries at the mall. The 7D Galaxy Store, arcade game area, and other entertainment centers make the center a must-visit place for people of all ages if you are in Chiang Mai.
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With rows and rows of stalls selling souvenirs and local Thai products, this place for shopping in Chiang Mai is popular among tourists who want an edgy shopping adventure. With massage booths working at affordable prices, 100 THB for 30 minutes and 160 THB for an hour, you can feel refreshed and ready to explore more. A fish spa is another interesting feature of the market which draws a lot of customers looking for different forms of relaxation. The low-cost, delicious meal outlets add a whole new level of entertainment to the place. There are Thai, Indian, Israeli, and Japanese food options.
Location: 149/24 Chang Khlan Road, Night Bazaar Hours: 6:30PM-12:00AM
7. Wualai Walking Street
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Opening up in the late afternoon, the stalls here provide a wide range of locally crafted goods, original paintings, clothes, and locally designed jewellery. Since walking down the street and shopping uses up a lot of energy, the quick food pit stops help to refuel yourself. Many places and restaurants are selling Thai food including barbequed fish, som tam, pad Thai, etc. as well as stands offering Thai sweets. With massage booths, spending the evening in the street is sure to become the best experience of being in Chiang Mai.
Location: Wualai Road, near the South moat of the old town Hours: 5:00PM-11:00PM (approximately)
8. Kad Suan Kaew Department Store
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With a variety of shops, restaurants, and a bowling alley, this place for shopping in Chiang Mai is one of the oldest shopping malls in the city. Devoid of many brand stores, it offers many export goods and a Western-style supermarket. With a few mobile phone stores and health and beauty shops, it provides customers with a good and relaxing shopping experience. This mall is a favorite amongst the locals and is a nice place to go for budget shopping in Chiang Mai.
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Also known as Kad Luang, this is a must-visit market for all the foodies and people looking for fresh produce and local street delicacies. From spices and herbs to delicious street food, you can find everything related to food here. The second and third floors are dedicated to clothing and everyday merchandise, and you can also find cheap cosmetics and personal care products. However, the highlight of the marker is its tantalizing selection of food.
Location: Chang Moi Road, close to the River Ping, north of Chiang Mai Night Bazaar Hours: 6:00AM-7:00PM
Visiting a place is rarely complete without stuffing your suitcases with new purchases and carrying the memories of the whole shopping and entertainment experience, especially when shopping in Chiang Mai. With modern malls and local markets, Chiang Mai makes up for a wonderful shopping destination in Thailand.
