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Night markets · Northern Thailand

Five night markets worth staying up for

From Chiang Mai’s famous Sunday Walking Street to Pai’s lantern-lit lanes — five northern markets made for slow evenings.

When the heat of the day fades, Northern Thailand’s towns come alive with lanterns, sizzling woks and stalls piled high with handmade crafts. Each market has its own rhythm — here are five worth planning an evening around.

The market list

Five markets, endless evenings

Save these northern favourites for your Thailand journey.

Paintings and handmade crafts laid out along the road at Chiang Mai Sunday Walking Street

Chiang Mai Sunday Walking Street

The iconic Sunday market through the heart of Chiang Mai, filled with local crafts, street food, handmade goods and live performances.

Best for: A Sunday evening of crafts, street food and performances.

Colourful umbrellas shading the stalls of Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

A lively evening market stretching through the city, perfect for browsing souvenirs, handicrafts, clothing and local snacks.

Best for: Souvenir browsing and easy evening snacking.

The ornate white entrance gate of Chiang Rai Night Bazaar strung with lanterns

Chiang Rai Night Bazaar

A more relaxed northern Thai market experience with regional food, handicrafts, live music and an easygoing atmosphere.

Best for: A relaxed market night with regional food and live music.

Shoppers browsing stalls as dusk falls over Saturday Walking Street in Chiang Rai

Saturday Walking Street, Chiang Rai

A colourful evening street market where local artisans, food vendors and performers bring the city centre to life.

Best for: A colourful Saturday evening with local artisans.

Colourful lanterns strung above Pai Walking Street at dusk

Pai Walking Street

A laid-back mountain-town market famous for its street food, handmade crafts, bohemian atmosphere and lively evenings.

Best for: A bohemian mountain-town evening of food and crafts.

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