Top 5 Best Places for Shopping in Chiang Rai, Thailand
Chiang Rai is a great destination for shopping, offering a mix of local markets, night bazaars, boutique stores, and handicraft centers where you can buy unique souvenirs, handmade products, and traditional Thai goods. Here are the top 5 best shopping places in Chiang Rai:
1. Chiang Rai Night Bazaar – Best for Local Handicrafts & Souvenirs
- Why Visit? A vibrant night market with local artisans selling handmade goods.
- What to Buy?
Handmade tribal clothing and accessories
Handwoven textiles from local hill tribes
Unique wood carvings, paintings, and ceramics
Authentic Thai street food
- Bargaining Tip: Prices are usually fair, but a little polite negotiation (10-20% off) is accepted.
- Location: Near the Chiang Rai Bus Terminal, Open: 6:00 PM – 10:30 PM
2. Kad Luang (Central Market) – Best for Fresh Produce & Local Snacks
- Why Visit? This is the main local market, perfect for an authentic Thai shopping experience.
- What to Buy?
Fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices
Thai sweets and snacks (e.g., coconut candy, dried mango)
Handmade bamboo baskets and local crafts
Freshly roasted northern Thai coffee beans
- Bargaining Tip: Fixed prices for food, but for crafts and souvenirs, you can ask for a small discount.
- Location: Chiang Rai City Center, Open: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
3. Saturday Night Walking Street (Thanon Khon Mueang) – Best for Local Art & Handmade Goods
- Why Visit? A weekly walking street market with a mix of local artisans, musicians, and food stalls.
- What to Buy?
Hand-painted umbrellas (a Chiang Rai specialty)
Handmade silver jewelry and accessories
Traditional Thai musical instruments
Unique handcrafted home décor items
- Bargaining Tip: Some vendors allow bargaining, but others have fixed prices for handmade products.
- Location: Near Chiang Rai Clock Tower, Open: Saturdays, 5:00 PM – 10:30 PM
4. Doi Tung Royal Project Shop – Best for Sustainable & Ethical Products
- Why Visit? A fair-trade shop supporting local hill tribes and eco-friendly products.
- What to Buy?
Organic tea & coffee from local farms
Handwoven scarves, shawls, and textiles
Handmade pottery, candles, and herbal skincare products
Dried fruits and traditional Thai snacks
- Bargaining Tip: Prices are fixed since this is a charity-based project.
- Location: Near Doi Tung Royal Villa, Open: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
5. Oub Kham Museum Shop – Best for Exclusive Antique & Cultural Items
- Why Visit? A hidden gem offering authentic antique and cultural artifacts.
- What to Buy?
Antique Lanna-style jewelry
Handcrafted ceremonial items from Thai royal history
Rare tribal textiles and historical artifacts
Exclusive gold & silver decorative pieces
- Bargaining Tip: Prices are higher but negotiable for some pieces.
- Location: Near Den Ha Market, Open: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Shopping Tips for Chiang Rai
Cash is King: Many small vendors don’t accept credit cards.
Shop Late for Discounts: Some night market vendors offer lower prices before closing.
Be Polite When Bargaining: A friendly smile and negotiation work better than aggressive haggling.
Buy from Local Artisans: Support the hill tribe communities by purchasing their handmade goods.
Conclusion
Whether you're looking for authentic Thai handicrafts, fresh local produce, unique artwork, or sustainable products, Chiang Rai offers amazing shopping experiences. The Night Bazaar is the best all-around option, while the Doi Tung Royal Project is perfect for ethical, handmade products.