Night Bazaar, Chiang Mai (must see)

A three-block stretch of shops along the Chang Klan Road, the Night Bazaar is Chiang Mai’s shopper’s paradise with shops selling a range of products at pocket-friendly prices and upmarket goods for the more discerning. The Chinese, mostly immigrants from the province of Yunnan, celebrate the New Year here. Lacquered duck, spring rolls, fried noodles, ice cream and surprise cakes are everywhere; this place has a variety that makes your mouth water and it's all very cheap.

This is the cheapest place for purchasing a range of products and tourist souvenirs in Thailand. One can buy antiques, Thai silk, (fake) Rolex watches, cheap luggage, video games and cheap CDs and DVDs in the small shops that are found everywhere. It is also popular with tourists for the many establishments that offer services like camera shops, mobile phone shops, travel agents, internet cafes and tailoring. One can choose and purchase Thai silk and get a custom-made suit stitched in one day. One can also get a portrait painted at the bazaar in traditional Thai attire. Most tourist souvenirs and handicrafts are mass-produced but one can spot a unique object among them.

Notable buildings along the market are the Ven Ping Night Bazaar with two floors of shops selling authentic antiques, clothing, and crafts. The Kalare Center building has a selection of restaurants serving traditional Thai and international cuisines. The Chang Klan Plaza is an indoor shopping center with high-end stores and the Anusarn Market has eateries serving a variety of seafood dishes.

Tip:
Be prepared to shop around and barter to get the best prices. If items are not priced, it's best to keep walking. If you go inside the large interior Anusarn area, prices are much more reasonable.