Ratchadamnoen Road, Chiang Mai - a street sign with a couple of people riding motorcycles
1 / 10

Ratchadamnoen Road Chiang Mai

4.6
·491k reviews·, Thailand

Ratchadamnoen Road transforms into a bustling Sunday market, a vibrant hub for local crafts, incredible street food, and lively entertainment.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunday evenings

Market is in full swing

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Ratchadamnoen Road, Chiang Mai - a street sign with a couple of people riding motorcycles

Ratchadamnoen Road Chiang Mai

Best Time

Sunday evenings

Market is in full swing

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ratchadamnoen Road transforms into a bustling Sunday market, a vibrant hub for local crafts, incredible street food, and lively entertainment.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The Sunday market on Ratchadamnoen Road is an absolute must-do for experiencing Chiang Mai's vibrant culture and flavors!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for the Market

Beat the biggest crowds and get the best selection of food and crafts by arriving before sunset.

💰 Bargain Respectfully

Haggling is common, but do so with a smile. Start with a reasonable offer and be prepared to walk away if the price isn't right.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunday Walking Street Market

Sunday Walking Street Market

Ratchadamnoen Road

A vibrant street market with endless stalls of local crafts, clothing, and delicious street food. A true Chiang Mai experience!

Street Food Galore

Street Food Galore

Along Ratchadamnoen Road

Sample authentic Thai flavors from countless food vendors. From savory snacks to sweet treats, your taste buds will thank you.

Local Crafts and Souvenirs

Local Crafts and Souvenirs

Stalls lining Ratchadamnoen Road

Discover unique handmade items, from intricate carvings to colorful textiles. Perfect for finding that special souvenir.

Planning Your Visit

Sunday Market Buzz

Ratchadamnoen Road transforms into a massive Sunday market, drawing huge crowds. Arrive early or late to navigate the throngs and snag the best street food and crafts. It's a must-do for experiencing local life and shopping.

Navigating Chiang Mai

While Ratchadamnoen Road is walkable, Chiang Mai has many attractions spread out. Consider Grab or local ride-sharing apps for longer distances. Tuktuks are fun but often pricier for tourists.

Best Times

When
Sunday evenings
Why
Market is in full swing
Crowd
High
When
Sunday late afternoon
Why
Beat the peak crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

@mommamignon shows us what it’s like to visit one of the prettiest festivals in the world 📍 This is the Yi Peng Lantern festival in Chiang Mai Thailand 🇹🇭 People from all over the world gather for this festival to release lanterns to signify a fresh start! 🕯️ Is Thailand’s Yi Peng Lantern Festival on your bucket list?? #thailandtravel #lanternfestival #yipeng #chiangmaithailand #thailandtrip #Pla...
@destinationinspiration
168.6K likes • 1.3M views

🎯 Arrive Early for the Market

Beat the biggest crowds and get the best selection of food and crafts by arriving before sunset. Reddit

💰 Bargain Respectfully

Haggling is common, but do so with a smile. Start with a reasonable offer and be prepared to walk away if the price isn't right. Reddit

10/10 recommend taking the sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai when you’re in Thailand!!! 💌 #thailandtravel #thailandtraveltips #sleepertrain #sleepertrainbkk #sleepertrainthailand #backpackinglife #solotravel #travel #overnighttrain #bangkoktochiangmai #budgettravel #bangkoktochiangmaisleepertrain #backpackingthailand
@postcardsfromayana
53.3K likes • 1.2M views
Plan your trip to Thailand like a pro with these Know Before You Go travel tips & my 20+ page travel guide covering Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai. 🇹🇭 thailand travel tips Thailand resorts how to plan a trip to thailand best thailand itinerary hidden gems in thailand #bangkokexplores #traveltiktok #thailandexplores #thailand #thailandtrip #phuket #chiangmai
@imaubreyjackson
26.7K likes • 439.9K views

🍜 Taste Everything!

Don't be afraid to try the diverse street food. Khao Soi is a must-try local delicacy! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Side Streets

Venture off the main road to discover hidden gems, quieter stalls, and local eateries. Reddit

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

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for the Market

Beat the biggest crowds and get the best selection of food and crafts by arriving before sunset. Reddit

💰 Bargain Respectfully

Haggling is common, but do so with a smile. Start with a reasonable offer and be prepared to walk away if the price isn't right. Reddit

🍜 Taste Everything!

Don't be afraid to try the diverse street food. Khao Soi is a must-try local delicacy! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Side Streets

Venture off the main road to discover hidden gems, quieter stalls, and local eateries. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Chiang Mai can be warm and humid. Carry water and take advantage of the many fresh fruit shake vendors. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Ratchadamnoen Road is most famous for its vibrant Sunday Walking Street Market, offering a fantastic array of local crafts, delicious street food, and a lively atmosphere. Visitors rave about the sensory experience and the opportunity to find unique souvenirs. However, the sheer volume of people can be overwhelming for some.

What People Like

Vibrant Sunday market
Delicious street food
Unique local crafts

What People Dislike

Overwhelming crowds

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ratchadamnoen Road is located within the Old City of Chiang Mai. If you're staying in the Old City, it's easily accessible by walking. For those coming from outside the Old City, Grab, Bolt, or Maxim are recommended ride-sharing apps, as they are generally more affordable than traditional tuktuks. TikTokReddit

Parking can be challenging, especially on Sundays when the market is active. It's best to rely on ride-sharing services or walk if you're staying nearby. Reddit

For getting around Chiang Mai, Grab is a popular and convenient option. Red songthaews (shared taxis) are also a common and budget-friendly way to travel within the city. TikTokReddit

Yes, you can take a tuktuk, but be aware that prices are often higher for tourists. It's more of a novelty experience than the most practical transport option. Reddit

While there isn't a direct bus route to Ratchadamnoen Road itself, the red songthaews circulate widely and can drop you off nearby within the Old City. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Ratchadamnoen Road is a public street and there is no admission fee to walk along it or visit the Sunday Walking Street Market. Reddit

The market typically runs from around 5 PM to 10 PM every Sunday. It's best to arrive a bit earlier to avoid the largest crowds. Reddit

While the road itself is free to access, some of the temples located on or near Ratchadamnoen Road may have small donation boxes or nominal entrance fees for specific areas. Reddit

The market is most active in the late afternoon and evening. While you can walk the road earlier, the stalls and vendors will begin setting up and operating closer to 5 PM. Reddit

The market generally winds down around 10 PM, with vendors starting to pack up shortly after. Reddit

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

You'll find a wide array of goods, including handmade crafts, clothing, jewelry, souvenirs, artwork, and local snacks. It's a great place to find unique items. Reddit+1

Don't miss out on Khao Soi, a delicious Northern Thai curry noodle soup. Other popular options include mango sticky rice, grilled meats, spring rolls, and various sweet treats. TikTokReddit

Yes, bargaining is expected and part of the experience. Approach vendors with a friendly attitude and offer a reasonable price. Reddit

Yes, many vendors offer vegetarian and vegan choices. Look for dishes with tofu, vegetables, and rice. Don't hesitate to ask vendors about ingredients. Reddit

Most vendors prefer cash, so it's advisable to have Thai Baht on hand. Some larger stalls might accept mobile payments, but cash is king. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Sunday Walking Street Market itself is incredibly photogenic, with colorful stalls, bustling crowds, and diverse street performers. The temples along the road also offer beautiful architectural shots. TikTok

It's generally polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their specific products, especially if you're not purchasing anything. A smile and a gesture usually suffice. TikTok

Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for the market. However, the vibrant atmosphere and neon lights at night also create unique photographic opportunities. TikTok

The various ornate temples, such as Wat Chedi Luang (nearby) and Wat Phra Singh, offer stunning architectural details. The sheer volume of market stalls also creates a visually rich scene. Reddit

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both the wide market scenes and details. A fast prime lens can be useful for low-light shots in the evening. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Ratchadamnoen Road Sunday Market can be a fun, albeit busy, experience for families. Kids will likely enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, the colorful stalls, and the wide variety of street food options. Look for sweet treats like mango sticky rice or freshly made crepes. The market also often features street performers and musicians that can entertain younger audiences. TikTok

Tips for families: Arrive earlier in the afternoon to avoid the densest crowds and make it easier to navigate with strollers or young children. Keep a close eye on your belongings and children in the bustling environment. Consider focusing on specific sections of the market to avoid overwhelming the kids. Many of the crafts and toys can be fascinating for children to look at. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Ratchadamnoen Road, especially during the Sunday market, is a budget traveler's dream. You can find incredible street food for very affordable prices, allowing you to eat well without breaking the bank. Khao Soi, for example, can often be found for just a few dollars. TikTokReddit

Shopping for souvenirs and crafts is also budget-friendly here. While prices can vary, bargaining is common, so you can often snag good deals on clothing, accessories, and local handicrafts. The road itself is free to access, making it a perfect free activity. For transportation, opt for Grab or red songthaews over tuktuks to save money on getting to and from the area. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Sunday Walking Street Market Experience

Ratchadamnoen Road truly comes alive on Sundays with its famous Walking Street Market. This sprawling event transforms the entire street into a pedestrian paradise filled with an incredible variety of goods. From intricate handicrafts and local art to trendy clothing and unique souvenirs, there's something for everyone. The air is thick with the enticing aromas of street food, offering a culinary adventure with dishes like the iconic Khao Soi, grilled skewers, fresh fruit smoothies, and sweet treats. TikTokReddit+1

Beyond shopping and dining, the market is a vibrant cultural spectacle. You'll encounter street performers, musicians, and local artisans showcasing their skills. It's a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the local Chiang Mai atmosphere and witness the community come together. Be prepared for large crowds, especially in the evening, and embrace the lively energy. Arriving a bit earlier in the late afternoon can help you navigate more comfortably and snag the best finds before the peak hours. TikTokReddit

Pro-tip: Don't be afraid to bargain respectfully with vendors. It's an expected part of the shopping experience in Thailand. Start with a friendly smile and a reasonable offer. Also, remember to carry cash as most vendors prefer it. Exploring the smaller side streets branching off Ratchadamnoen Road can lead you to even more hidden gems and local eateries away from the main hustle. Reddit+1

Culinary Delights of Ratchadamnoen Road

Ratchadamnoen Road is a paradise for food lovers, especially during the Sunday market. The sheer variety of street food available is astounding, offering an authentic taste of Northern Thai cuisine and beyond. The undisputed star is Khao Soi, a rich and creamy curry noodle soup that is a must-try when in Chiang Mai. You'll find numerous vendors serving this local specialty, each with their own unique twist. TikTokReddit

Beyond Khao Soi, be sure to sample other delights such as Sai Oua (Northern Thai sausage), Moo Ping (grilled pork skewers), Pad Thai, fresh spring rolls, and an array of sweet treats like mango sticky rice and roti. Don't shy away from trying dishes that look unfamiliar; many offer incredible flavors. Many vendors also offer refreshing fruit shakes and Thai iced tea to help you cool down. TikTok

When exploring the food stalls, look for vendors with long queues, as this often indicates delicious food. It's also a good idea to carry cash for easy transactions. If you have dietary restrictions, many vendors can accommodate vegetarian or vegan requests, so don't hesitate to ask. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2