1 Chatuchak Weekend Market
2 Doi Inthanon
3 Grand Palace
4 Khao Sok National Park
5 Mekong River
6 Phang-nga Bay
7 Prasat Phanom Rung
8 Similan Islands
9 Sukhothai Historical Park
10 Wat Phra That Lampang Luang
Almost 9,000 stalls cater to an estimated 200,000 daily visitors at the king of Thai markets.
From endangered wildlife to opium pipes, hill-tribe crafts to herbal remedies, everything is sold at Bangkok's weekend market. Musical instruments, religious amulets, antiques, flowers, clothes imported from India and Nepal, camping gear and military surplus equipment are regular items. The best bargains are household goods such as pots and pans, dishes, drinking glasses and second-hand books.
You might feel overwhelmed by the scale of the market, the bustling crowds and the heat, but take time to wander because this is the ideal place to buy Thai handicrafts or souvenirs. Be sure to bargain good-naturedly, pitching your initial offer at least 50 per cent below the asking price. One unfortunate aspect of the market is the sale of some endangered wildlife, both living (as pets) and dead (for medicine or the cooking pot). Recently the Thai authorities have moved to crack down on this illicit trade, which is far less prevalent than a decade ago. Plenty of interesting and tasty food and drink stalls, and live music towards the end of the day, complete the recommended full-day visit. Although the market is mainly open at the weekend, a few vendors are out on weekday mornings and there is a daily vegetable, plant and flower market opposite the weekend market's south side.Address: Southern end of Chatuchak Park, off Thanon Phahon Yothin, Bangkok
Hours: Sat-Sun 8-6
Restaurant: Cafés in all sections of the market
Bus: 2, 3, 9, 10, 13
Train: N8, Mor Chit Station
Accessible: Few
Admission: Free
Practical: Musical events in the late afternoon
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