In the heart of Chiang Mai, the largest city in northern Thailand, you’ll find not only fascinating temples and ruins but also a number of must-see shopping spots. From arcades lined with traditional crafts made by the famous hill tribes of Chiang Mai—particularly the Hmong people—to shopping malls perfect for escaping the heat and bad weather, we’ve picked four central shopping destinations. Let this guide inspire you to enjoy a fulfilling trip to Chiang Mai.
1. Sunday Market
If you’re planning to shop in central Chiang Mai over the weekend, be sure to check out the Sunday Market, held once a week every Sunday. The market starts when the temperature cools around 4–5 PM, and the bustling crowd gives it the feel of a summer festival!
From Tha Phae Gate in central Chiang Mai, stalls stretch westward all the way to Wat Phra Singh. The streets are packed with T-shirts, bags, trinkets, accessories, and more. There are also plenty of handmade items by local artisans, making the walk itself enjoyable!
You’ll also find a wide variety of food like coconut pudding, corn juice, and coconut ice cream at low prices—making it easy to snack while you shop. There are also massage booths, perfect for relaxing your tired feet.
Name: Sunday Market
Address: Sri Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai 50200
2. Hmong Market
The village where the Hmong people live, located in the outskirts of Chiang Mai, is a well-known tourist destination. You can catch a glimpse of the life of these hill tribes, making it a must-visit spot for those interested in local culture.
However, getting to the Hmong village can take time, which can be tough for short-term travelers. Luckily, central Chiang Mai has a Hmong Market where you can see and buy traditional clothing and crafts from the Hmong people.
The market is bursting with vibrant fabrics that are overwhelming in the best way. Everything from clothes and textiles to bags is colorful and eye-catching, making it a visual delight. There are also small pouches and items perfect as souvenirs—making this an ideal place to shop for gifts in the heart of Chiang Mai.
Name: Hmong Market
Address: Soi Mong, Off Kuang Men Road, Chiang Mai
3. Kad Luang
Kad Luang means “the biggest market.” Built by the royal family during the reign of King Rama V, Kad Luang is Chiang Mai’s oldest and largest market. It remains a bustling center not just for tourists but also for locals, offering a glimpse into the daily life of Chiang Mai residents.
Kad Luang includes Warorot Market and Ton Lamyai Market. It sells everything from clothing and daily necessities to fresh produce like fruits and vegetables, as well as flowers, spices, and dried goods. It’s said you can find just about anything here.
Kad Luang is more than just a place to shop—it’s a space where you can wander while imagining the lives of the local people, making the experience even more rewarding.
Name: Kad Luang
Address: Between Thapae Road and Chang Moi Road, Chiang Mai
4. Maya Lifestyle Shopping Center
Opened in January 2014 in central Chiang Mai, Maya Lifestyle Shopping Center is a modern mall that’s a rare sight in a city dominated by traditional markets and street vendors.
Unusually for Chiang Mai, it features high-end brand stores and even a movie theater. It also houses NARAYA, a Thai handbag brand popular with women! There are several cafés where you can use Wi-Fi, making it a comfortable place to linger.
It also has a supermarket, making it suitable for souvenir shopping. Unlike Bangkok, central Chiang Mai has few places to escape the intense heat and sun, so this mall is convenient in more ways than one.
Name: Maya Lifestyle Shopping Center
Address: 55 Moo 5, Huay Kaew Rd. Chang Phuak, Muang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai 50000
◎Summary
As you can see, Chiang Mai offers a variety of shopping experiences! From trend-focused stores and stylish cafés in modern malls to century-old traditional markets, the city provides a wide range of options.
If you’re staying in Chiang Mai for a few days, be sure to explore different places—you’ll discover many sides of the city waiting to be experienced.