If there’s one thing the Bangkok-ites enjoy, it’s a good street market. While there are dozens scattered about this city, nothing could ever possibly compare to the undisputed king-of-them-all: Chatuchak.
Chatuchak, or JJ Market, is a massive outdoor weekend market that sprawls over 27 acres with 15,000 street stalls.
It’s loud, it’s in your face, it’s packed and it’s full of hidden gems.
Ever wanted to buy a plate of squid eggs? Chatuchak.
A new sofa? Chatuchak.
A puppy? …You get where I’m going.
There is virtually nothing you can’t buy at the JJ Market–except personal space. The huge area is swarming with people, making it difficult to walk, let alone shop.
And generally, I can shop with the best of ’em.
Chatuchak has put me in my place. I just can’t handle that amount of people.
The chance to bargain is fun, and there are tons of funky clothes and shoes and jewelry I loved, but I found myself constantly clutching at my bag, looking around at everyone who passes near me and trying my best not to step on the little old ladies selling ice pops on the sidewalk.
It’d be hard to get me to go back, even though the little bargainista in me is screaming to give it another shot.
Maybe I just didn’t catch it at the right time of day. When we went, it was near closing on Sunday and everyone was scrounging for their last minute bargain.
Or maybe, as I suspect, it really is always that insane.
If you are heading to Chatuchak– sweet! Here are things you should know.
- The market draws out over 200,000 people each day.
- Pickpocketing is common, please watch your belongings.
- No price is final. Bargaining is accepted and encouraged here.
- Wed & Thurs feature a plants-only selection.
- Friday is Wholesale day, where buying three of something will get you a great wholesale rate.
- Toilets cost 2B and you must ask for toilet paper upon entry, it is another 5B.
As a side note: Thailand has the most incredible food and you can get anything you want here, including fresh pad thai, dried fish and fruits, coconuts and other yummy treats.
IF we go back, that’s where you can find me.
What about you? Have you ever been to a huge flea market? What’d you score?
{ 10 comments… read them below or add one }
200,000 people a day, WOW!
totally agree with your comment on thai food. not that ive ever been there, but the green curries we get here in oz blow my mind. can only imagine it being so much better on the spot. enjoy the trip!
Oh, Jamie… the food here is INCREDIBLE! I came here thinking “you know, with all our backpacking I’ll probably lose 10 pounds.” HA! Everything is so damn good, and surprisingly, (delightfully?) a lot of things are fried!
Very jealous of your trip! I’ve been in the Bangkok airport twice, but never managed to travel the country…yet.
I love markets (but also hate crowds). It’s a dilemma, isn’t it.
I also hear you on the failure to lose weight while traveling in regions with amazing food.
K had a similar reaction the the Khanal khalil in cairo – the epitome of a crowded and pushy market, but I can’t get enough of these places!
How many squares does 5B get ya?
I usually feel the same way in very crowded places. I like my space. 🙂
I spent many Saturday mornings at Chatuchak when I lived in Bangkok, but I learned if I liked something to buy it on the spot, since I don’t know how many times when I tried to go back to a vendor after looking around some more, I couldn’t find it. It really is a crazy place.
I’m with you Kelly. I’ve lived on and off in Bangkok for around 1.5 years now and I rarely ever approach Chatuchak (I’m a bit frightened at such a gigantic shopping destination). It’s a good experience to visit though, if you search hard enough, it’s possible to find anything you can imagine!
I miss Asian markets especially the wet ones. This one reminds me of swap meets in LA where you can get anything….ANYTHING. Looks like you and Chrissy are having a blast. Can’t wait to hear about all your other adventures.