Chang Khlan, Chiang Mai - a yellow and blue sign hanging from the side of a building
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Chang Khlan Chiang Mai

4.6
·491k reviews·, Thailand

Chang Khlan, home to Chiang Mai's famous Night Bazaar, offers a vibrant mix of shopping, street food, and local culture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Night Bazaar comes alive!

CrowdHigh
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Chang Khlan, Chiang Mai - a yellow and blue sign hanging from the side of a building

Chang Khlan Chiang Mai

Best Time

Evenings

Night Bazaar comes alive!

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Chang Khlan, home to Chiang Mai's famous Night Bazaar, offers a vibrant mix of shopping, street food, and local culture.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The Night Bazaar is a sensory overload in the best way, with vibrant colors, lively music, and the constant buzz of activity."

Vertical photo
TIP

🛍️ Bargain at the Bazaar

Haggling is expected at the Night Bazaar for the best prices on souvenirs and goods! :moneywithwings:

💧 Flood Preparedness

Be aware of potential flooding in the Chang Khlan area during the rainy season. Wading might be necessary .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Chang Khlan Road

A bustling hub for souvenirs, street food, and vibrant night life. Shop 'til you drop!

Astra Condo Rooftop Pool

Astra Condo Rooftop Pool

Astra Condo

Stunning panoramic views of Chiang Mai from a serene rooftop pool. Perfect for relaxation.

Carp Cafe Experience

Carp Cafe Experience

Various locations (check for specific cafe)

Dine surrounded by koi fish in a unique, tranquil rainforest setting. A truly immersive experience.

Planning Your Visit

Navigating Chang Khlan's Charm

Chang Khlan, home to the vibrant Night Bazaar, offers a lively atmosphere. Be prepared for crowds, especially in the evenings. Consider staying in the area for easy access to shopping and dining, but be aware of potential flooding during the rainy season.Instagram+1

Embrace the Local Vibe

Chang Khlan is known for its bustling night market, offering a sensory feast of food, crafts, and souvenirs. While it can be busy, embracing the local energy is key to experiencing its unique charm. Many find it a preferable alternative to Nimman for its proximity to the Old City and river.Reddit

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Night Bazaar comes alive!
Crowd
High
When
Mornings
Why
Quieter, great for breakfast
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

These were our 10 favorite activities in Chiang Mai! 🪔🕯️🏮 Are you visiting the north of Thailand and don’t know what to do? We stayed for 2 weeks in Chiang Mai and these were our favorite things to do. 1. Dantewada A dreamy escape to unwind at Dantewada’s park 🌿 2. Sticky Waterfalls Climb and play at the unique Sticky Waterfalls. 3. Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir Relax by the serene waters of Huay Tue...
@halaltravelasia
24.1K likes • 661.9K views

🛍️ Bargain at the Bazaar

Haggling is expected at the Night Bazaar for the best prices on souvenirs and goods! :moneywithwings: TikTok

💧 Flood Preparedness

Be aware of potential flooding in the Chang Khlan area during the rainy season. Wading might be necessary.InstagramReddit+1

Chiang Mai is one of my favorite places in Thailand! There is SO much to do and these are 8 things you should add you your list: 1. Sticky waterfalls 2. Ethical elephant sanctuary (we went to Joy Elephant Sanctuary but there are a ton to choose from so do your research before) 3. Quad biking 4. Hike Monk’s Trail 5. North Gate Jazz Co-Op 6. Watch a Muay Thai fight 7. Visit the Carp Cafe 8. Baan Kan...
@mayasgoingplaces
23.7K likes • 306K views
💦 🚶‍♂️Flooded Streets, New Adventures in Chiang Mai. . Chang Khlan Road, where Chiang Mai’s popular and usually busy Night Bazaar is located. The floodwaters may have closed the shops, but they’ve opened up a new kind of adventure in Chiang Mai. . While the Night Bazaar waits for a restart, take a moment to appreciate this unique side of Chiang Mai. Every cloud has a silver lining! . . . . . _____...
tmaythai
149 likes • 0 views

☕ Halal Breakfast Spots

Sapa Coffee 786 offers delicious and affordable Halal breakfast options. Open daily except Fridays.Instagram+2

🚗 Easy City Access

Chang Khlan offers good access to the Old City and other parts of Chiang Mai via Grab or short walks.Reddit

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trisixtymy
77 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🛍️ Bargain at the Bazaar

Haggling is expected at the Night Bazaar for the best prices on souvenirs and goods! :moneywithwings: TikTok

💧 Flood Preparedness

Be aware of potential flooding in the Chang Khlan area during the rainy season. Wading might be necessary.InstagramReddit+1

☕ Halal Breakfast Spots

Sapa Coffee 786 offers delicious and affordable Halal breakfast options. Open daily except Fridays.Instagram+2

🚗 Easy City Access

Chang Khlan offers good access to the Old City and other parts of Chiang Mai via Grab or short walks.Reddit

🏊‍♀️ Rooftop Views

Astra Condo boasts impressive rooftop pools with great city and mountain views.Reddit+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Chang Khlan is celebrated for its vibrant Night Bazaar, offering a fantastic array of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Visitors appreciate its convenient location, proximity to the Old City, and the lively atmosphere. However, some travelers note concerns about potential flooding during the rainy season and the bustling nature of the market.

What People Like

Bustling Night Bazaar
Affordable shopping & food
Convenient location

What People Dislike

Potential flooding
Crowded at night

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), you can take a taxi or a Grab to Chang Khlan. The journey typically takes about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Many visitors also opt for shared minivans or buses for a more budget-friendly option.TikTok+1

Yes, Chang Khlan is quite walkable, especially around the Night Bazaar. For longer distances, Grab (ride-sharing app) is readily available and affordable. You can also find songthaews (red trucks) for local transport.TikTokReddit

Yes, it's a pleasant walk of about 10-15 minutes from the eastern edge of the Old City to the Chang Khlan area, particularly near the Night Bazaar.Reddit

For travel to other cities like Chiang Rai, green buses are a popular and affordable option, with tickets often bookable online in advance.TikTok

While not as extensive as in some larger cities, Chiang Mai has a decent public transport system including songthaews and buses. Grab is also a very convenient and widely used option.TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is a public market and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely wander and shop, but be prepared to pay for any purchases you make.TikTok

The Night Bazaar typically opens in the late afternoon and runs into the night, usually from around 5 PM to 11 PM or later. Specific stall hours may vary.TikTok

While the Night Bazaar itself is free to enter, specific attractions like cafes or spas in the Chang Khlan area will have their own pricing. For example, Tweechol Botanical Gardens has a small entrance fee.TikTok

Yes, booking accommodation in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Many hotels and condos are available through various booking platforms.Reddit

While some vendors may accept cards, it's best to have cash (Thai Baht) on hand for most purchases at the Night Bazaar, as many transactions are cash-based. ATMs are available in the vicinity.TikTok

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

You'll find a wide variety of souvenirs, including handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, wood carvings, silk products, and local art. Bargaining is part of the experience! TikTok

Sapa Coffee 786 is a popular spot for Halal breakfast, offering a simple yet tasty menu. It's open daily except Fridays.Instagram+2

Consider the Carp Cafe, where you can dine with koi fish swimming around your sunken table, offering a surreal and peaceful atmosphere.TikTok

Street food in Chiang Mai is generally considered safe and delicious. Look for stalls with high turnover and where food is cooked fresh. The Night Bazaar is a great place to sample local delicacies.TikTok+1

Don't miss Khao Soi (curry noodle soup), Sai Oua (Northern Thai sausage), and Gaeng Hung Lay (Burmese-style pork belly curry).TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The vibrant stalls and bustling crowds of the Night Bazaar offer endless photo opportunities. The Astra Condo rooftop provides stunning panoramic city views, especially at sunset.InstagramReddit

The Carp Cafe, with its koi ponds and lush greenery, offers a surreal and visually striking backdrop for photos.TikTok

Late afternoon as the market sets up and early evening when the lights are on and the atmosphere is lively, provide the best photographic conditions.

It's generally polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially vendors. Candid shots of the general atmosphere are usually fine.

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide scenes and details. A fast prime lens can be great for low-light conditions. A tripod might be helpful for long exposures, but can be cumbersome in crowds.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Chang Khlan offers a family-friendly environment, especially with the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. Kids will love the vibrant atmosphere, the variety of colorful souvenirs, and the exciting street food options. Be mindful of crowds and keep a close eye on children. The Carp Cafe can be a magical experience for kids, allowing them to dine surrounded by fish.TikTok

For a more active adventure, the Sticky Waterfalls are a fantastic option, providing a fun and safe way for children to play and climb on the unique rock formations.TikTok+1 Consider visiting Tweechol Botanical Gardens for a peaceful outing amidst nature, where kids can explore and enjoy the open spaces.TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Chang Khlan is a haven for budget travelers. The Night Bazaar is perfect for finding affordable souvenirs and delicious street food at low prices.TikTok+1 Many guesthouses and hostels are available in and around the area. Transportation like songthaews and booking buses in advance for inter-city travel can significantly cut costs.TikTok+1

Look for local eateries and coffee shops like Sapa Coffee 786 for cheap and tasty Halal breakfast options.Instagram+2 Consider staying in condos like Astra Condo if you're looking for longer-term rentals, as they can be more economical than hotels, and offer amenities like kitchens.Reddit+1

couples

For couples, Chang Khlan offers a blend of romantic experiences and vibrant nightlife. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Night Bazaar, hand-in-hand, picking out unique gifts and savoring local delicacies.TikTok A sunset drink or dip at the Astra Condo rooftop pool provides a romantic setting with breathtaking city views.Reddit

Consider a unique dining experience at the Carp Cafe, where you can enjoy a meal surrounded by the serene beauty of koi fish.TikTok For a truly relaxing and intimate experience, book a couples' massage at a reputable spa like Fah Lanna Spa.TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enchanting Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Chang Khlan Road is synonymous with the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, a sprawling marketplace that comes alive as the sun sets. This is the place to find everything from intricate handicrafts and local art to trendy clothing and unique souvenirs. The air is filled with the enticing aromas of street food, offering a culinary adventure with dishes like Khao Soi and Sai Oua.TikTok Prepare to haggle for the best prices; it's an expected and often enjoyable part of the shopping experience.TikTok The bazaar is a sensory overload in the best way, with vibrant colors, lively music, and the constant buzz of activity.

While the Night Bazaar is the main draw, the Chang Khlan area itself offers more than just shopping. It's a well-connected district with easy access to the Old City and the riverfront. Many travelers find it a more appealing base than the trendy Nimman area due to its proximity to historical sites and the general atmosphere.Reddit However, it's important to be aware of the potential for flooding during the rainy season, which can temporarily impact accessibility.InstagramReddit+1

For those seeking a unique dining experience, the Carp Cafe offers an unforgettable meal surrounded by koi fish in a lush, rainforest-like setting.TikTok It's a tranquil escape from the market's hustle and bustle. Accommodation options in Chang Khlan range from budget-friendly guesthouses to modern condos, with some, like the Astra Condo, offering impressive rooftop pools and panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.Reddit+1

Ethical Elephant Encounters

Chiang Mai is renowned for its ethical elephant sanctuaries, offering visitors a chance to interact with these magnificent creatures responsibly. These sanctuaries focus on rescue, rehabilitation, and providing a natural habitat for elephants that have been mistreated or retired from work.TikTok+2 Unlike traditional tourist attractions, ethical sanctuaries prioritize the elephants' well-being, meaning you won't find elephant riding or performances.

Visitors can expect to participate in activities like feeding the elephants, walking alongside them, and observing them in their natural environment. It's a deeply moving and educational experience that allows for a genuine connection with the animals. Research is key when choosing a sanctuary; look for those that are transparent about their practices and focus on the elephants' welfare above all else.TikTok+1

Popular ethical sanctuaries often mentioned include Elephant Nature Park and Joy Elephant Sanctuary.TikTok+1 These experiences are a highlight for many travelers to Chiang Mai, offering a chance to contribute to conservation efforts while creating lasting memories. Remember to pack insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be prevalent in these natural settings.TikTok

Exploring Beyond the Bazaar

While the Night Bazaar is a major draw, Chang Khlan and its surroundings offer diverse attractions. For a unique natural wonder, the Sticky Waterfalls (Bua Tong Waterfalls) are a must-visit. Their unique mineral deposits allow you to climb directly on the falls, making for an adventurous and fun experience.TikTok+1

For those seeking tranquility and stunning views, Wat Phra That Doi Kham is a significant temple offering panoramic vistas of Chiang Mai and a chance to make a wish at a revered shrine.TikTok If you're looking for a more serene escape, consider visiting Tweechol Botanical Gardens, a beautiful green space about 30 minutes from the Old City, offering a peaceful retreat with various plant collections.TikTok

Chiang Mai also boasts unique cafes like the Carp Cafe, which provides an immersive dining experience surrounded by koi fish and lush greenery, reminiscent of a Studio Ghibli film.TikTok For relaxation and rejuvenation, Fah Lanna Spa is a highly-rated option for traditional Thai massages and spa treatments.TikTok

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