Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Just about every tourist area in Thailand has a night bazaar and Chiang Mai is no different. Every day around 3 pm, the carts begin filling both sides of the street in the Night Bazaar area. The Chiang Mai night bazaar is one of the city's biggest attractions. Thai handicrafts of every variety are offered for sale to tourists and locals alike. Very few tourists spend time in Chiang Mai without making a few purchases at the night bazaar.

General Guildelines for Shopping at the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Bargaining is a part of market life for most Thai people. Vendors do not advertise the price of their products. When you find an item that you want to purchase, simply ask the seller the price.

At these types of markets, it is expected that the buyer will bargain to have the price lowered. So unless you are feeling generous, do not pay the first price which is mentioned by the vendor. In most cases, the seller will reduce the price by as much as 50%, although about 25% is more typical. It just depends how much the price was inflated on the first quote.

The above guidelines are very important for anyone who shops at the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. The sellers will definitely give an inflated price when you ask, "How much is this?" The inflated price is not meant to trick you into spending more for an item than the actual value of it. Although they will be glad if you accept the first price given, it is expected that the potential buyer will make a counter offer. If you want to find the best bargains, shop early. Most sellers are somewhat superstitious about the first sale of the night. They will often reduce the price more than normal in order to get the first sale out of the way.

Shopping at the Chiang Mai night bazaar is an experience which should not be missed during your family holiday in Chiang Mai. Head out to the Chang Klan road and spend an evening or two among the crowds of shoppers.

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