Things to do on Khao San Road

Have a traditional Thai massage, get a tattoo, try and stomach a fried insect or two, visit one of the many clubs catering to every musical taste, shop at the road's many shops, market stalls and street vendors. And let's not forget one of the Khao San's most enjoyable and enduring pursuits: people-watching.

Shopping

Khao San Road is literally bursting with things for you to spend your precious baht on. Its abundance of travel shops can supply you with all your logistical requirements - flight, train and bus tickets to your next destination - while the area's tailors will give you some much needed sartorial elegance, cutting you a sharp suit ready for when you arrive back from island jumping. Essentials aren't neglected either, with chemists, convenience stores and monetary exchanges dotted around. A big must in Thailand is a compelling read or two for the beach, and there are several of the city's best second hand-book shops scattered around where you can trade in your old books or buy a new one.
When it comes to market stalls, you'll notice after only a few long minutes of tricky maneuvering along Khao San Road's narrow, obstacle strewn pavements that almost every last inch of space is dedicated to small commerce. The cramped day-time stalls which line the walk-ways on either side, sell all the beach clobber you could need; sandals, shorts, sunglasses, bikinis - alongside silver jewellery, textiles, pirated music CDs, the latest DVD's, tie-dyed ware and all kinds of touristy stuff. There's also street vendors, who traipse up and down the street selling things like hammocks and ethnic jewellery. When making a purchase from the market areas remember to bargain, but not to the point of arguing over a few measly baht - aim to meet them somewhere in the middle and you can both part with your dignity in tact.

The perfect time to embark on your shopping spree, unless you want to end up bad tempered and pouring sweat, is in the evening. Not only is it cooler, but its also the time when things liven up (except on Mondays) - with industrious, creative young Thais coming down to lay out their wares, many of them crafted lovingly by hand. Here you can find people selling everything from decorative hair clips and trendy one-off T-shirts to second-hand vintage clothing and glow-in-the-dark plastic bugs.

Food & markets

While perfect for adjusting to the culture and climes, Khao San Road is also a great spot to ease yourself into the intense sensory melange that is Thai cuisine. You'll find that most of the local food available here has been thoughtfully toned down to cater to the unadjusted Western palate, with the spiciness of curries, salads and noodle dishes all reduced considerably compared to what you find locals eating (if you like it spicy, then ask).But please don't think its all tame variations on Thai cooking, alongside Western junk food. With the upsurge in quality restaurants and bars, the variety and exoticism of the food available has also rocketed. Menus offering creative fusions of Thai with Western cooking are plentiful, while there are many places that specialise in quality international cusine, with pizzas, falaffel and pasta especially getting a look in.

Of course, a trip to Khao San Road wouldn't be complete without sampling the street vendors' famous 'pad thai', their own unique take on the popular Thai dish that's tasty, nutritious and, above all, cheap. And, for vitamin and protein bursts, there's natural produce in the form of fresh fruit, fruit shakes and, if your bold enough, fried bugs. Once you have exhausted Khao San Road's eateries and completed your initiation into spicy food, then try Banglamphu market, just around the corner on Chakrapong Road. It has an exciting array of street stalls selling tasty and authentic Thai alternatives to the staple backpacker diet of pad thai, banana pancakes and watermelon shakes.

Nightlife

When dusk hits on Khao San Road - whether it's a Monday or Friday night - the energy levels ramp up a few notches. Restaurants and bars start blaring music, while the masses begin to contemplate sinking that first beer of the evening. As the evening progresses you may want to start thinking about where to shake your booty. Loud dance music prevails: house, trance, drum and bass, hip-hop - alongside a smattering of indie, rock and reggae. Most venues rely on their own in-house DJ's to work up the crowd, but some, such as Café Democ, regularly pull in DJ's from across the region and globe. There's also live music for those not partial to electronic beats, with several pubs and bars putting on local bands playing a mix of covers and original material. We've put together a list of some of the area's hang-outs that are worth checking out (READ MORE).

People watching

While a naturalist would most likely head to the rainforests to see wildlife thriving in their natural environment, the aspiring sociologist could do no better than come to this compact urban jungle to see mankind in its many, often grotesque permutations, at play. Entire evenings can easily be whiled away in one of the road's many cafés or bars, as you watch the ragtag procession of all colours, nationalities and persuasions saunter by, nearly all of them on a hedonistic mission of some sort or other. Of course, you'd need an awfully long time to identify all the wildly disparate species who roam here, but let's just say that any even remotely comprehensive list would have to include the credit-card carrying hippies, the blissed-out rastafarians, 'trustafarians' waiting for daddy's cheque to clear, bohemian art students, label clad Thai clubbers, exotic ladyboys, all-over-body-tatooed human canvases, hip-hop heads, ethnic tribes-people selling their wares, freelance hookers, the bronzed serial island-hoppers, the pasty virgin backpackers or the wrinkled 'been there, done that, bought the Khao San T-shirt' travelers who keep on coming back for more. The list goes on, and on, and on...

Yes, the vibrant Khao San Road is an intoxicating and often contradictory melting pot, and if you come here to do only one thing, it should be to look at who's-who in this one-of-a-kind crazy zoo.(Photo used with kind permission of Nino di Bari)

Hidden charms
When the relentless pace of Khao San Road and the stinking hangover all gets a bit much, there are small areas nearby which provide a welcome oasis of calm, and that swing to a slower, more manageable tempo that's a little bit closer to the real pace of Thai life.

Phra Artit Road, a mere ten-minute walk away, is a nice spot for a more sedate experience, and perhaps a romantic evening meal with your (new) love interest. Nestled right next to the Chao Phraya River, it has a bohemian, artsy vibe which makes it a welcome retreat from the unrelenting wall of noise which emanates from Khao San Road. The restaurants and bars along this quaint tree-lined road are popular with Thais and often have talented local musicians playing soothing, amorous Thai songs in the evenings.
But if you're feeling lethargic, as many do after a short time here, you needn't even venture that far. Try wandering aimlessly down any one of the side alleys off the main stretch of Khao San Road, and you'll more than likely find a pleasant restaurant or bar where you can sit back and sip on a cocktail in anonymity.

Bangkok Wholesale Markets

Retailers across Bangkok, Asia and beyond flock to the wholesale markets for unbeatable deals - usually the lowest prices in the city. Clothing, textiles, jewellery and herbs are popular wholesale items, although unique knick-knack's and various produce can also be found. And if wholesale shopping is your vice, like-minded persons usually stay at nearby Chinatown hotels or Pratunam hotels for complete indulgence (don't worry - we won't tell anyone!). Wholesale markets are Sampeng Lane, Pahurat Textile Market, Bo-bae Market, Bai Yoke, Pak Khlong Talat, and Pratunam Market.

Sampeng Lane & Pahurat Textile Market


An option to get to Pahurat, though a bit exhausting, is to walk south along Sampeng Lane from Chinatown down to Chakraphet Road and Pahurat. Several sub-sois and shopping blocks can be explored this way, not to mention Sampeng Lane's deals on wholesale items. Wholesale goods such as flip-flops, toys, household items, and herbs can be bought here. An added feature to the area are circus-like acts of balancing and maneuvering performed by men transporting an astonishing amount of wholesale goods (sacks, boxes, etc) with small dolleys while weaving in and out of traffic - an interesting feat. To save yourself from over-exhuastion, and to explore Chinatown in a more thorough manner, try staying at nearby Chinatown hotels. Also while in the area, don't forget to visit the covered market lane between Ratchawong and Mahachak Roads.
Once crossing Chakraphek Road and entering Pahurat, stores selling formal dresses, gowns, and even (royal-like) crowns glitter and sparkle for young ladies aspiring to become hi-so princesses. Crowns aside, within these first few blocks lay Pahurat's textile selling action, so choose one of the many small alleyways and dive into the heart of it all. Within you'll find a labrynth of shops and vendors selling all kinds of colourful textiles - enough to cause a mild panic attack to those caught unprepared or already fatigued.

Making your way through one of these alleys and towards the other side of the block, shops selling posters of Hindu Gods alongside various Indian paraphernalia slowly begin to appear. A few cafes filled with Indian men chatting away, not to mention mouth-watering smells of Indian cuisine, confirm you're in 'Little India'. On the other side of the block more gastronomical delights await as cafes and a few food hawkers along Soi ATM provide delicious north Indian cuisine.
How to get there: Take the subway to MRT Hualompong station. From there, bus number 40 passes through Pahurat and Chinatown. Several taxis and tuk-tuks are also available for hire (35-40 baht).

What to buy: At Sampeng Lane, wholesale goods such as rubber items (flip-flops, baskets, etc) and herbs; at Pahurat, textiles, Indian foods and gifts.

Open: Around 09:00 - 18:00 weekdays (every day)

Bo-bae Market

Located just a ten-minute tuk-tuk ride (about 50 baht) from Chinatown, the Bo-Bae Towers and Market is most easily reached en-route to Sampeng Lane via the National Monument BTS station (five minutes and about 40 baht by tuk-tuk), or on your way to the National Stadium BTS station coming from Chinatown. The Towers is a large, five-storey wholesale clothing and garment complex, consisting of Bo-Bae Towers 1 and 2. On the fifth floor of tower two is the Food Center, a cafeteria where many types of affordable Thai food can be enjoyed. Most garments at the complex are cheap and the type you'd find at small local markets scattered throughout Thailand. Still, there are great deals to be had.
Walking across Krung Kasem Road, which runs along the front side of the city block where the complex is located, and then crossing over one of the many bridges is the actual Boe-bae Market - selling much the same thing, although in a nicer atmosphere. The market consists of four to five city blocks which are surrounded by canals and linked by bridges. Old and weathered yet charming shophouses provide an interesting walk through the markets narrow alleyways. Some shops here close around 16:00 although many are known to stay open until 01:00 or 02:00, depending on business transactions.
How to get there: Take a tuk-tuk or taxi from BTS National Stadium station to the market. All drivers (unless he's just too stubborn) will know how to get there.

Items at market: Mainly cheap garments

Open: 09:00 - 16:00

Baiyoke & Pratunam Market

The bargaining block where Pratunam's indoor transactions take place is consisted of three major shopping centers: the Bai Yoke Garment complex 1 & 2, which has wholesale deals on garments; Indra Square, has fashion clothing and accessories for men and women, along with silk items, jewellery, and touristy Thai crafts; and the City Complex, which also offers fashionable clothing marketed towards young ladies, plus a few shops selling jewellery and crafts. Also in the Pratunam area are several top-notch hotels to make your shopping experience more convenient.
Outside and between the complexes vendors and small shops sell shoes, t-shirts, 'brand-name' items, CD's, and various knick-knacks. Food vendors push their way through the large crowd to hawk the usual fruit and scewered foods; if you're hungry and need a rest, there's a food center on the second floor of Indra Square. This area can become quite hectic with pushy pedestrains, so come with a patient attitude and, if possible, well-rested. This is also a wise investment, as a smile will usually knock off at least 10 to 20 baht from the asking price.
How to get there: From BTS Siam station, take the Skytrain one stop towards Mo Chit to Ratchathewi station. From there, exit down the right-hand stairs, take a right at the next main intersection and walk down Phetchaburi until you see Platinum department store; the market is directly across from Platinum Fashion Mall (total ten to twelve minute walk). Or just take a tuk-tuk or taxi from the station to the market.

Items at market: Clothing and garments (wholesale), retail items including Thai crafts, clothing, jewellery, bags, CD's, etc.

Open: Baiyoke Garment Complex: 09:00 - 16:00; Indra Square: 09:00 - 19:30, City Complex: 11:00 - 16:00, Pratunam Market: 24 hours.

Flower Market (Pak Klong Talat)

A fragrant and colourful market along the Chao Phraya river, fresh flowers and vegetables are brought here every morning from surrounding provinces. The kaleidoscope of colours and pungent odour of flowers provide an exotic sensory stimulation. Its proximity to Chinatown and Pahurat make it a convenient stop while in the area; it's a bit of a walk though, so you may wish to hire a tuk-tuk instead.
Also, the market's main action takes place late at night or in the early morning, so to catch the action your best bet is to hire a taxi from other parts of the city, or at a nearby hotel.
How to get there: Take the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Pak Khlong Talat Pier; bus numbers 2, 5, 8, 53, 60, 73, and 512 also go to the area. From Chinatown, you can take a tuk-tuk for a short distance to the market (around 20 baht).

Items at market: Fresh vegetables and flowers (sold by wholesale or retail)

Hours: All day, although it is best to go between 02:00 - 04:00 when flowers first arrive from neighboring provinces.

Patpong Night Market

After recently cleaning up its act, Patpong's become one of the 'must' night shopping destinations for avid shoppers. The place is always busy and chaotic with all the commotion from the GO-GO bars nearby and lots of foreign tourists. This market in Bangkok's notorious nightlife district is often the first and easiest stop for many tourists just arriving to Bangkok, whilst lodging at one of several mid-to-upper-end hotels in Silom. Be warned though, the quality and prices of most items sold are about as real and trustworthy as the girls shaking their wares in go-go bars flanking the area. Both market and go-go bars seem to complement each other well, but remember not to be fooled by first impressions, and to bargain hard.


How to get there: Coming from BTS Siam station, depart at Sala Daeng station and exit down one of the right-hand stairs. Follow the increasing trail of vendors along the sidewalk, and after five minutes, you'll know you're there.

Items at market: Cheap 'brand-name' items, CD's, souvenirs, T-shirts, etc

Open: 18:00 - around 01:00 (every day)

Bangkok Local Markets

Some of Bangkok's best-kept secrets are found in local markets. They offer an array of items at very low prices, and quite often contain the friendliest variety of Thai people. A few markets listed are a bit of a hike to the outer edge of Bangkok, although this is where the friendliest deals on a large variety of items are usually made. Local markets listed include Klong Toey, Ying Charoen (Saphan Mai), Minburi, Major Ratchoyothin, Or Tor Kor, and Khlong San.

Khlong Toey Market

Khlong Toey is a very 'fresh' market, offering low prices on raw meat, seafood, farm produce, and a few other items (clothing, kitchenware, etc). A small, hidden village deep within the Bangkok concrete jungle, this extensive market seems to have a life of its own. Quaintly tucked away within a grimy city block and practically unnoticable from busy Rama IV Road, a pleasantly unexpected, laid-back environment lies within. Some sections can get a bit bloody, and if you're squemish, no worries, as not all sections are strictly filled with raw meat. If you still have an appetite, a few food stalls serve Thai curries and other local staples.
How to get there: Take the MRT subway to Klong Toey station, exit up the escalators and then walk east on Thang Rakfaiko / Rama IV Road for ten minutes until you reach the large intersection of Rama IV and Narong Road. The market will be on your right-hand side. Or, you can take bus numbers 45, 46, 72, 102, or 107 to the area.

Items at market: Fresh meat and vegetables, cheap clothes and household items (baskets, tubs, etc)

Open: 06:00 - 02:00

Or Tor Kor Market

Or Tor Kor is a super clean fresh market, similar to an open-aired supermarket, and with prices only a bit cheaper. The market's highlights include imported fruits, along with prized domestic fruits from Rayong and other nearby provinces. There is also a small food court selling delicious Thai foods, although at a slightly higher price than most places. The Chatuchak Market plant section is directly across the road, and can also be explored if you come on a Wednesday, Thursday, or any weekend.
The market is a nice place to stroll around and take in the colourful array of fruit, or to purchase an impressive assortment of fruit for some special occasion; unfortunately, there aren't too many bargains to be had. If you have the time, an option might be to take a taxi (15 minutes) or bus (30 minutes) up Phahonyotin Road to Saphan Mai market. A wider variety of meat, clothing, and other items at cheaper prices, and an altogether more interesting market, await.
How to get there: Take the MRT subway to Kamphaeng Phet station. Exit number three, and you're in the market. Also, you can ride the BTS skytrain towards Mo Chit, get off at Saphan Kwai station and take a taxi (35 - 40 baht) or tuk-tuk to the market. Bus number 543 also runs by Or Tor Kor.

Items at market: Mainly fresh fruits, vegetables and plants, plus a few stalls selling fresh meat and seafood

Open: 06:00 - 20:00 (every day)

Ying Charoen (Saphan Mai) Market

Even though it is a bit of a distance from the Skytrain and on the outskirts of northern Bangkok, this market is worth the trip. Spacious in size and large in variety, you'll find no touristy items here; nothing but fresh foods and cheap clothing for locals. Hence, most vendors are more friendly compared to other markets.
Clothing stalls are in the parking lot under canopies at the front and center of the market. Making a 'U' shape around the parking lot is the large main / roofed market section. A Thai massage center, coffee shop, and video game center next to the parking lot provide R&R for the whole family.
How to get there: Close to Or Tor Kor Market, you can take a taxi or bus number 543 from Mo Chit station or Or Tor Kor to Saphan Mai Market (15 minutes, 80 baht and 30 minutes, seven baht respectively).

Items at market: Mainly fresh fruits, vegetables, and plants, plus a few stalls selling fresh meat and seafood

Open: 06:00-20:00 (every day)

Minburi Market

Similar to Saphan Mai, this market is a bit of a distance from the Skytrain, although this is made up by the friendly vendors plus a variety of items mainly for locals. Located near the busy Lad Phrao Road, it is divided into three main sections spanning two city blocks. A bit more congested than Saphan Mai but a lot less stressing than more popular markets, it is worth a trip for true local market flavor.
How to get there: From BTS Skytrain Mo Chit station, you can take a taxi down Lad Phrao Road to the market (20 - 30 minutes, 100 - 120 baht). Air Con bus numbers 2, 15, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, and micro bus numbers 2 and 3 go to the market. Also, you may want to head there between 09:00 and 15:00, as traffic can get pretty congested in the morning and late afternoon.

Items at market: Clothing, jewellery, plants, tools and parts, stereos, speakers, electronic equipment; fresh fruit, meat, and produce.

Open: 09:00 - 20:00 (every day)

Khlong San Market

Khlong San is geared towards 18 - 25 year old girls looking for new additions to their wardrobe. Rows of shops selling shoes are flanked by small shophouses selling more shoes, rhinestone T-shirts, handbags, studded accessories, etc. The market is small and quaint, making it an easy stroll to kill time while your girlfriend spends your money, or boyfriend treats you to a must-have item. To make the date complete, dine at one of several riverside restaurants in the area.
How to get there: Directly across the Chao Phraya River from River City, the Shangri-La hotel, and the Si Phaya Pier, the market can be reached by the Si Phraya ferry (2.5 baht). Coming from Chinatown, take a boat at the nearby pier to Si Phraya Pier, and then to Khlong San. Once departed from the boat, you'll be in the market.

Items at market: Clothing, shoes and accessories geared towards young ladies, a few items for men, and a small outdoor food court serving the usual Thai variety.

Open: 07:00 - 22:00

Major Ratchoyothin Market

This market offers basically the same as Khlong San, but in the northern part of the city. Items on sale are a bit trendier as well, and with the market located next to the Major Ratchoyothin Cinema and IMAX complex, you can catch a flick before or after shopping around. A few bargain shops and eateries are also in the shopping complex.
How to get there: The easiest way is to take the MRT subway to Phahonyothin station, catch a tuk-tuk and tell him to take you to 'talat' (market) Major Ratchoyothin. Bus number 543 runs by Major Ratchoyothin, or, just take a taxi from BTS Mo Chit station to the market (five to ten minutes, 40 - 45 baht).

Items at market: Similar to Khlong San, items are mainly for young ladies (clothing, accessories, handbags, etc) with a few items (dress shirts, t-shirts, sunglasses, etc) for men. Open: 16:00 - 23:00 (every day)

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Covering 70 rai (35 acres) of land with over 15,000 stalls and more than 200,000 visitors every Saturday and Sunday, Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok is the mother of all markets - and possibly one of the biggest and most famous markets in the world. If bargain-hunting gives you an adrenalin rush, get ready for a head-spinning, earth-moving experience. Conquering this massive market is no easy feat though. The reward for taking a lot of patience along - together with a bottle of water - is that you can find pretty much anything here.

Shopping strategies

There are two ways to approach your shopping excursion. Firstly, to get a free map from one of the information kiosks and (try to) plan your adventure through the never-ending maze of crowded, narrow alleys that are, surprisingly, numbered. But, it's so big that even with a map you might find yourself going around in circles. Areas are also demarcated in colour zones with clothing and fashion items grouped together, a section for household goods, crafts, pets, art and collectables, plants, wholesale items, food, and everything in between. Through the years vendors haven't always abided to the colour-coding, resulting in what could be called 'organised chaos'. The second way is to just follow your instincts and leave it all up to karma. Either way, it's virtually impossible to see it all in one day - and even more unlikely that you won't find something to get excited about.

If you are able to keep track of where you're going and can cover a big part of the market, you'll be amazed with the sheer variety of merchandise. From roosters and chopsticks to vinyl records and a pair of Levi hipsters that you haven't seen in shops for years. You can buy a python, beautiful orchids, garden furniture, and camo wear. Or beads, fake antiques, the latest Café del Mar CD... The earlier you get there, the better too. Not only to make sure you have enough time to cover it all, but also to get a head-start before it gets too crowdy and hot.

Getting to Chatuchak Weekend Market early will give you the advantage of getting there before the crowds, and escaping the heat... Stalls start opening from as early as 08:00, while things literally heat up from 11:00 onwards. We strongly advise you to get there as early as possible. Also, use the Kampheng Phet MRT station rather than Chatuchak Park station (the former takes you right to the market).

Putting your bartering skills to the test
Chatuchak Weekend Market is the perfect place for bargain shopping and to put your bartering skills to the test. A friendly attitude and big smile are your biggest allies to secure the best possible deal. There are a few ATM's scattered about, but they are not always easy to find. So take along enough cash, as not many vendors or stall owners accept credit cards. A fascinating aspect of the market is that many emerging Thai artists, craftsmen and business people have started their successful careers with a stall at Chatuchak. Keep your eyes peeled for lots of raw talent, innovation and craftsmanship. And then there are some very interesting vendors who have been selling their merchandise at the market for decades, and it's clear that they love what they do.

As is customary anywhere in Thailand, you can find plenty to eat and drink all over the market. Check out some of the unusual delicacies too, like grubs, frogs and scorpions, mostly deep-fried and spiced heavily. It's very easy to get your hands on an ice-cold beer too, which is often the best way to quench a thirst in extreme heat and humidity. As long as you make sure to drink lots of liquids to avoid dehydration - and wear light clothing! Chatuchak is also like any other big market in the world; crowdy and busy. So watch out for pickpockets and keep your personal belongings safe.

How to get there: Take the skytrain (BTS) to Mo Chit station and exit down the right-hand stairs, follow the crowd for a five-minute walk, and you're there. Another option is to take the subway (MRT) to Chatuchak Park station, and follow thesignage directives. For the plant and flower section, get off at Kampheng Phet MRT station (exit 3).

Items at market: Clothing, jewellery, handicrafts, antiques, ceramics, pets, vintage magazines / stamps / coins, collector's items, knick-knacks and just about anything and everything else one could want from a Thai market, or any market. And then some!

Open: 08:00 - 18:00 on weekends and Fridays (wholesale day). Plant shops are open Wednesdays and Thursdays too from 07:00 - 18:00.

Bangkok Floating Markets

Even though transactions are more concerned with tourists rather than locals these days, the floating market boats are still piled high with tropical fruit and vegetables, fresh, ready-to-drink coconut juice and local food cooked from floating kitchens located right on the boat. To enjoy the atmosphere without haggling over prices, try relaxing on a guided boat tour of Damnoen Saduak market. Floating markets are Taling Chan Market, Bang Ku Wiang Market, Tha Kha, and Damnoen Saduak.


Damnoen Saduak Floating Market


Well on the tourist trail after the Bond films, the trip to the famous floating market at Damnoen Saduak is still worth doing. Totally chaotic, small 'klongs' or canals are filled with small flat boats jockeying for position, expertly paddled by mature ladies ready to stop and bargain at a moment's notice. It's colourful, noisy, totally touristy but great fun. To explore the market further, take a guided tour.
How to get there: Take a bus from the Southern Bus Terminal (+66 (0)2 434 5557-8) to Samut Sangkhram Ratchaburi province, 80 km southwest of Bangkok. You can then walk along the passageway to the market, or take a boat to the market pier.


Items at market: Fresh fruits, vegetables, ready-to-drink / eat juices & foods


Open: 07:00 - 11:00 (every day)



Taling Chan Floating Market




This market is in close proximity to Bangkok, and so makes a nice weekend trip if you're in for a new shopping experience. A strew of canals around the market can be visited by hired boat where small villages are revealed along the way. Homestays are also available for a truly Thai experience.
How to get there: Take bus numbers 79 or 83, which cross the Chao Praya River to the Thonburi side of Bangkok. The market is located near the front of Taling Chan District Office.


Items at market: Fruit, vegetables, plants and various knick-knacks


Open: 09:00 - 17:00 (weekends only)

Bang Khu Wiang Floating Market




Perhaps the best choice to enjoy a traditional Thai floating market without the touristy push is Bang Khu Wiang. Monks arrive by boat in early morning on their daily 'tak baat' (alms round), and a variety of farm - fresh produce is offered.
How to get there: One option is to rent a boat from Chang Pier (in Bangkok), and ask to be taken to Noi-Khlong Om-Bang Khu Wiang Floating Market. A cheaper option is to catch a boat from Wat Chalo Pier for a 45-minute ride to Bang Kruai (5 baht), which runs every 15 minutes from 05:00 - 20:00. From there it is a 10-minute boat ride to the market. If boats don't suit you, no worries as taxis and tuk-tuks are available for hire at the market.


Items at market: Mainly Fresh produce


Open: 04:00 - 07:00 (every day)

Tha Kha Floating Market





Tha Kha has a much smaller amount of tourists compared to other floating markets in Samut Sangkhram. With a canopy of natural surroundings, it is protected from the commerical onslaught as experienced at nearby Damnoen Saduak market. Most importantly, don't forget to take a look at the stars before embarking; the market is only open six days a month in accordance to the lunar calendar.


How to get there: Little sister of and 10 kilometres from touristy Damnoen Saduak market, this market can be reached by following the same directions to Damnoen Saduak market, and then hiring a taxi to the market. Another option is to hire a taxi from Bangkok to Tha Kha (around 500 baht).


Items at market: Similar to other floating markets, items include fruit, vegetables, knick-knacks, and ready-to-serve foods.


Open: 06:00 - 12:00 (weekends only)

Suan Lum Night Bazaar

A mixture of poshly dressed, fresh-from-the-office Thai's and expats along with fisherman pant-clad tourists, Suan Lum could best be described as the VIP outdoor market of Bangkok (where you're always welcome, of course). Covered walkways with centrally-located snack bars provide perhaps the most luxurious (outdoor) market shopping experience in the city. Several bars along with Thai, Italian, German, and even Mexican restaurants are conveniently within the market area, close enough to analyze the crowd while enjoying a drink, yet away from the market's hustle-and-bustle. In the same area, dinner shows featuring classical Thai puppetry can be enjoyed at the famous Joe Louis Puppet Theatre.

On the other side of the market's curious Khmer-looking temple walkway, lies a large outdoor beer garden, food court, and concert venue all rolled into one. Here one can indulge in an assortment of inernational and Thai beers and foods, with international fare either Japanese (yakitori and Asahi) or German (sausage, Paulaner, etc). Beer and food are accompanied by live Thai cover bands performing the latest local and international hits on stage. Also, don't forget to check out the Big Wheel, 'La Roue de Paris' while you're there! And, after a few drinks with friends, head out to one of Silom's many nightclubs.


How to get there: Take the MRT subway to Lumpini station; the market is near Lumpini Park, a short walk from the station.
Items at market: Creative gifts, trendy home items, clothing/jewellery boutique shops by local designers, packaged dried fruits, a few stalls selling the usual market CD's/clothing.

Open: 18:00 - 00:00 (every day)

Sukhumvit: Shopping

Sukhumvit Road is one of Bangkok's most exciting and eclectic shopping streets. Its air-conditioned malls and department stores, and myriad shops and sidewalk vendors, offer an overwhelming variety of goods that ranges from cheap imitation tat to the latest fashion trends.

Copycat Commerce

The most visible and vibrant form of commerce are the street stalls peddling souvenirs, knock-off clothing and pirate DVDs. These open in the afternoon and operate all along lower Sukhumvit road around the main hotels. Many don't close until late into the night. Shops, meanwhile, sell everything from hair-cuts and antiques to tailored suits and happy-ending massages.

The Extravagance of Emporium
Upmarket shopping is almost as easily found. Connected by elevated walkway to BTS Asok is Robinsons Department Store, and to BTS Phrom Phong the massive Emporium complex. This is without doubt one of Bangkok's swankiest malls, a place to be seen as much as to shop. The department store here stocks pretty much every status-enhancing brand known to mankind. Those it doesn't can be found in the upscale luxury stores seen throughout (think Louis Vuitton, Prada, Greyhound etc). Popular with the hi-so set here there are also book stores, gadget and lifestyle shops, food courts, cafes and beauty salons.



With funky boutique department stores like Playground, the swanky street of Thonglor (Soi 55) - the 'Beverley Hills of Asia' according to the New York Times - is perfect for those wanting trendy clothes, gadgets or home wares crafted by homegrown and overseas designers. Many fine interior and home décor stores in this area celebrate the creativity and craftsmanship of the Thai people.

Silom: Shopping

Be it during the day or well past midnight, Silom is bound to have something to satisfy all breeds of shoppers. Start with the shopping malls in the area, including Silom Complex, Central, and Robinson.
Also, don't miss Silom's sub-sois, notably Soi 'Lalaisup', where local food, clothing and accessories can be had at reasonable prices. Fancy shopping under the Bangkok's night sky? Head to Patpong Night Market or Suan Lum Night Bazaar, where souvenirs, Thai crafts, CD's, DVD's, designer imitation watches and bags, funny and rude T-shirts, boxing shorts, and a whole lot of other things can be bargained for.
Patpong Night Market and the vendors along Silom and Saledaeng Roads at night are undoubtedly the most popular shopping option, especially for tourists. And, if you're looking for cheap ornaments or wholesale jewellery, the shops bordering Charoenkrung Road will be just the place for you.
Other shopping highlights in Silom include Silom Village, especially for arts and crafts, and the upmarket Baan Silom Complex with a wide collection of little boutique-style shops. Many credible tailors can also be found at the end of Silom Road in the vicinity of State Tower.

Chinatown: Shopping

Shopping in Chinatown is an experience, but very different from your typical mall outing. Busy Yaowarat Road with its many gold shops reflects Thai-Chinese people's love of gold (which symbolises prosperity).
Sampeng Lane (also known as Soi Wanit), running parallel south of Yaowarat Road, and the narrow lanes directly off it, are a riot of colour and noise. Here you'll find garments, textiles, stationery, second-hand parts and equipment, electric goods, kitchen utensils, computer parts, antiques and even car parts, musical instruments or ancient Chinese medicine.
Merchandise is generally very cheap and, often, sold wholesale. Sampeng Lane was previously infamous for the gang fighting and high numbers of murders that took place here. Nowadays, it's a very busy and predominately pedestrian street, with the main danger being the odd motorbike that tries to get past. The street is a hive of constant commercial activity, all day long.


The Thieves Market, or 'Nakhon Kasem', is slightly north of the western end of Sampeng Lane. Though legitimate today, it was so named because this was where stolen goods inevitably turned up. It's now a good area for buying Thai or Chinese antiques. Following the river heading north, Chinatown gives way to the wafting aromas of curries and the exotic spices of Pahurat.
A small but significant Indian community is located around the famous Pahurat Textile Market on the edge of Chinatown. Wholesale silk, cotton and all kinds of fabrics are traded with tough bargaining skills. Its also a good place to head for if you're desperate for some authentic Indian food. The markets are generally open throughout the day until around 18:00.

The Emporium Bangkok

The Emporium is like a glossy magazine come to life. Behold the seven layers of shopper's paradise, where the first three floors are dedicated solely to fashion. Exclusive world-class brand names dominate the ground floor, hot international designer items, leather and jewellery the first floor, and glamorous garb for the young and trendy, the second. Fashionistas, this is your playground.
Those more concerned with gadgetry and gear need not feel left out. 'Pleasure & Leisure' is the name of the third floor, as it has everything you could dream of to maximise the experience of the audio, visual and digital lifestyle. On this level you can also satisfy all your golf and sporting needs at the 'Global Sports Mall'.


Lifestyle Trends

Anyone acquainted with the world of interior décor will want to become one with the fittings and furniture in 'The Living Gallery' on the fourth floor. From Victorian bathtubs and chandeliers to see-through perspex chairs and inspired kitchenware, this is the place to outfit your lifestyle. Peruse the 'Exotic Thai' gallery, where traditional design elements, textiles and crafts have been reincarnated as modern accessories. 'Design Source' holds baroque lamps, mirrors and sparkly statuettes, while modern contemporary Asian art prevails at the 'CVN Art Centre'. The fifth floor gathers diverse household appliances, silverware, porcelain, crystal - all the finishing touches to a stately dinner party.


For a tour through the conceptual world history of design, a visit to the Thailand Creative & Design Centre (TCDC), on the uppermost level is highly recommended. The TCDC features two state-of-the-art exhibition spaces, as well as Asia's largest design library. Sit down and absorb it all at Creative Coffee Space, where jazz music provides the ambiance for stimulating conversation. Or if you are exhausted by now, why not sink into a comfy seat and space out at the luxurious cinema, after a rejuvenating treatment at 'Sense and Spirit Spa'. To finish off a day well spent, the reception area of SFX cinema is so highly polished, the floor reflects the orb-like lighting, which seems to follow you around as if you were on stage. Yes, you are a celebrity, and life is good!

Delectable Delicacies

It would be a shame if you go to The Emporium and don't check out the ground floor supermarket where you can find not only the best of Thailand, but imported fresh, processed, tinned and bottled goods from all the corners of the globe. If the sight of all this makes your stomach growl, you're in luck. For The Emporium features a host of trendy eateries and delis at its food hall. There's also two food courts to choose from; the one more of a Thai experience, the other a journey through international cuisine.

Open: 9.00-21.00

Location: Sukhumvit Soi 24/26

BTS: Phrom Phong

Siam Paragon: The Pride of Bangkok

From a sporty yellow Ferrari to a pair of Jimmy Choo shoes straight from the set of Sex and the City, Siam Paragon is a shopping mall without rival in Southeast Asia when it comes to luxury goods. This shopping and entertainment complex is an upmarket, five-storey colossus with 500,000 square metres of retail space. The gleaming, modern mall opened in December 2005 at a cost of 15 billion baht (US$ 375 million), and is home to more than 250 famed international and local luxury brands. Let's take a closer look...
It's easy to get lost in Siam Paragon's spacious hallways. Five vast floors make it a consumer 'heaven' with boutiques and flagship stores of the world's top-notch designer names like Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Versace, Burberry and Hermes. Floors are divided into Luxury Living, Fashion Venue, Lifestyle & Leisure, Living & Technology, IT & Paragon Passage, and Explorium & Global Entertainment. And that's not even counting the world-class aquarium, Siam Ocean World on the basement floor, or the stylish restaurants, Gourmet Market and Food Hall on the ground level. At the base of each escalator are information directories, but it is advisable to get your hands on a map from the information desk on the ground level before you start your shopping excursion or exploration.

Supreme shopping at the 'Jewel of Asia'

Created as a national showpiece strategically located in the heart of Bangkok, Siam Paragon effectively enhances the Thai capital's status as a world-class destination for a supreme shopping and entertainment experience. From the moment you arrive at Siam skytrain station with your first view of the imposing complex, also dubbed 'The Jewel of Asia', it is evident that an unrivaled retail experience awaits. Envisioned by a team of 100 renowned international and local architects and designers, Siam Paragon has become a landmark that beautifully blends consumer culture and remarkable design with state-of-the-art technology. Lighting features, its spaciousness and the temperature-controlled environment makes it the ideal escape from the city's manic pace - and the heat! The Siam area is after all known as Bangkok's unofficial core and the start of the city's 'Shopping High Street'; and home also to other famous malls like Siam Centre, Siam Discovery, MBK and the busy Siam Square area with a host of shops, independent designer boutiques and restaurants.

Apart from the demarcated shopping floors where you can find anything from cutting edge fashion and beauty products, jewellery, audiovisual equipment, watches, art and handicrafts to digital technology, sports cars, trendy interior shops and luxury lifestyle products, the Paragon Department Store is a real treat. Boasting 80,000 square metres, this elegant shopping paradise offers exclusive selections of top-quality products from Thailand and the world's leading brands - from flashy trends to novel technology and other distinctive things that represent complete elegance and a supreme lifestyle. This includes a Beauty Hall, Shoes and Bags Salon, Accessories Bazaar, Lingerie Salon, a Sports Mall, Paragon Kids and Men's and Ladies' Fashion, amongst others.

Food feast

With so much shopping on the cards, there's no need to go hungry... Taste and experience culinary delights from all over the world that are served up at the ground level, Bangkok's biggest food destination. This 20,000 square metres space with some 80 restaurants and food outlets are divided into five areas: Gourmet Market, Take Home, Food Court, Food Hall Gallery, and the Food Hall. The Gourmet Market, a definite highlight, is divided into Gourmet Grocery and Gourmet Fresh, packed with the best quality, chemical-free local and imported fresh produce and delicatessen. Some even say that it rivals the famous Food Hall of Harrods in London. In the Food Court and Food Court Gallery there are well-known Thai, Chinese, Indian and Japanese restaurants, as well as cuisine from every other corner of the globe, many of them where the food is prepared and served from open kitchens. The Food Hall is home to many famous food brands, mostly fast foods which can be enjoyed in the huge, upmarket cafeteria-like area. And to burn off all those newly-acquired calories, a super-modern California Wow Fitness Centre has just opened its doors.
Take a deep breath

But wait, there's more... The 15,000 square metres Royal Paragon Hall is used for exhibitions and conferences, while the Explorium, Edutainment Centre and Entertainment complex on the top floor is home to a world-class cinema and other features that will delight young or old. On the basement floor, Siam Ocean World - the biggest aquarium in Asia - offers seven sections: Weird and Wonderful, Deep Reef, Living Ocean, Rain Forest, Rocky Shore, Open Ocean and Sea Jellies. There are see-through tunnels you can walk through to experience and admire the wonders of Marine life first-hand, including sharks, a giant grouper, stingrays, giant crabs, star fish, jellyfish - to name but a few. Audiovisual presentations offer informative explanations of the different displays.
More to come...

All of this makes up just the first development phase of Siam Paragon, called the 'Front Zone'. Currently under development is the 'Back Zone', which will be a five-star hotel and luxury serviced apartments to be managed by the Royal Kempinski Hotel, and 'The Park', a lush, three-acre oasis - complete with flowing streams, cascades and walkways in a uniquely serene environment. The exact completion date of these two new features are not yet known, but construction is (quietly and discreetly) underway.
Even if shopping isn't your thing, and even if you have left your credit card at home, Siam Paragon is an experience. Just walking around and admiring the finest things in life will make you feel glamorous and in vogue...

Shopping Tip: For 5% discount on most purchases, you can apply for a Tourist Discount Card at the information desk on the ground level.
Open: 10:00 - 22:00

Location: Next to Siam Centre, Pathumwan

BTS: Siam

Siam Center Bangkok

Siam Center is one of the oldest malls in Thailand, but also one of the most vital. Situated slap-bang in the centre of what is called 'the battleground of the malls' - and easily dwarfed by the bigger and flashier malls - few know that Siam Center was there before all the others. Constructed in 1976, this original looks good for her age, thanks to the panoply of bright and playful shops and the ever-younger and fresher clientele, expending their reeling energies and pocket money. Having gone through a few revamping exercises, this mall targets adolescents, and has a loyal and fashionable following.
Four floors of fun, Siam Centre contains about 300 shops, 20 restaurants and a cheerful and spacious food court. Vibey music is played throughout the corridors, broadcast by the resident 94EFM radio station on the fourth floor. Loads of skate and surf shops, together with lifestyle brands such as Monkey See, Levis and Von Dutch draw in chattering troupes of teenagers. There are a number of clothing boutiques with outfits designed for nubile bodies. A substantial spread of camera and mobile accessory shops - essential to the digitally enlightened generation - can be found here too. Cute jewellery and all the paraphernalia that signifies coolness, can be found throughout. Speciality stores feature shoes, hair accessories and sexy underwear.

Teenage Trends

A range of cosmetic salons with attentive beauty consultants attend to the needs of the fresh-faced visitors who frequent the mall. Ice cream parlours, cake and coffee shops provide the necessary refueling of calories. A fantastic spot for observing the spending and social habits of the mall-going youth is from a vantage point of a table on the fourth floor food court, aptly called 'f for fun'. Excellent food for very reasonable prices. On the ground floor, a trendy open-plan café has free Internet access.
There is, alas, no cinema in Siam Center itself, but walk through the pipeline tunnel that connects it to Siam Discovery and there you will find - along with a very different atmosphere altogether - cinemas galore.

Open: 9:00 - 21:00

Location: Siam

BTS: Siam

MBK Shopping Center

Short-named MBK, the multi-storey Mah Boon Krong is probably Bangkok's most legendary shopping mall, popular with both tourists and locals. Eight floors packed with 2,000 shops that sell everything from clothing, fashion accessories, handbags, leather products and luggage to furniture, mobile phones, electric appliances, cameras, stationery and DVD's (and then some). MBK (launched in 1986) is a beehive of activity, especially on weekends, when half of Bangkok converges to shop for bargains. And plenty of bargains are to be found here!
Not as upmarket and stylish as neighbours Siam Discovery, Siam Centre and the glitzy Siam Paragon, but less expensive with a mind-boggling range of goods over 89,000 square metres. MBK is a popular shopping complex, and the immense choice of consumer goods at give-away prices makes it a worthwhile trip to be included on any visitor's shopping agenda. You'll find entire floors dedicated to shoes and handbags, fashion and clothing, mobile phones and furniture. Like every shopping complex in Bangkok, there is an enormous food court (which was renovated in early 2006) with lots of affordable and yummie Thai and International food to choose from. The top floor comprises of an entertainment complex boasting plush cinemas, modern karaoke facilities, a computer games arcade and plenty of other restaurants and fast food choices.

Bargains galore - and the air-conditioning is free

To start with, fashion outlets cover everything from jeans, outsized clothing (for the 'larger' Western frame), shoes, handbags, accessories, jewellery, trendy apparel and famous-name brands. The bargain prices of many of these items mean that merchandise is often copy products or from questionable origin. It's important to take a closer look at the quality and craftsmanship. But if your idea of a shopping bargain is to pay a few dollars for an Adidas T-shirt or a Gucci belt - and authenticity is not an issue - head straight to MBK. Many of the products that can be found here are similar to that at markets, but the convenience of shopping in an air-conditioned environment beats hot and sticky markets - especially in the hot season. And, just like the markets, all prices are negotiable; MBK is probably the only mall in Bangkok where you can put your bartering skills to the test. You'll be surprised how much a big smile can knock of the original asking price. If you're shopping wholesale, prices get even more competitive.

The fourth floor is dedicated to mobile phones, DVD's, CD's and all kinds of related gadgets and paraphernalia in a market-type environment with stalls crammed into every available space. New phones, second-hand phones, starter packs, the latest (copy) DVD's, PC games and games consoles, MP3 players and what have you...
A flagship tenant is the four-storey Tokyu Department Store, the only one in Bangkok and a leading department store in Japan, which offers a wide range of quality merchandise like clothing, apparel, cosmetics and household goods at reasonable prices. On the fourth level is has a supermarket too. There's also a TOPS supermarket at MBK (ground level) and a mini indoor craft market (on the sixth floor) with a range of arts and crafts from all over Thailand - a lot of it though the typical souvenir-type items targeted at tourists.

MBK does not consist only of shops; walkways and aisles on most floors are lined with push-cart stalls, and the center area of the ground level is often used for sale promotions, exhibitions or other events - often with a local flavour. There are also a few hair salons and beauty parlours, several tailor shops and digital printing studios.

Shopping Tip: Tourists can apply for a special MBK Tourist Discount Card at the information kiosks on the first and second levels (remember to take your passport along). Armed with this card you will be entitled of discounts between 5 and 30% on selected merchandise and at some restaurants - a list of participating stores will be provided when you apply for the card.

Open: 11:00 - 22:00

Location: Phayathai Road, Pathumwan

BTS: National Stadium

Bangkok Shopping Malls

Bangkok's shopping malls are a shopaholic's paradise! Explore the city's impressive shopping grounds and discover a wealth of modern, multi-storey shopping malls. From the legendary Mah Boon Krong (MBK), to the sophisticated Emporium, the trendy Siam Discovery or Siam Paragon, and Southeast Asia's biggest lifestyle shopping complex CentralWorld, Bangkok accommodates everybody's taste, pocket and style. The latest addition to the city's 'mallscape' is the newly and fabulously revamped CentralWorld, which is officially the largest mall in Southeast Asia.
These malls are where you'll find the city's finest fashion stores, global brands, book shops, speciality stores, accessories stands and all kinds of luxury designer lifestyle goods. Not only are you spoiled for choice; it's all super easy to navigate. Shopping malls are modern and air-conditioned, thus a pleasant alternative to the bustling hot markets, and most complexes are easily accessible via the city's modern and efficient Skytrain (BTS) system. Just don't forget to sport comfortable shoes!

Shopping in Bangkok

: All you need to know
Shopping in Bangkok is an experience to thrill and delight the most discerning of shoppers – whatever it is you’re looking for. From the gleaming chrome and towering size of modern, air-conditioned malls, to the hustle and bustle of its famously buzzing street markets, Bangkok has all kinds of places to blow your baht. With everything from antiquities and the latest pair of trainers to designer jewellery available, Bangkok has an equally exhaustive, and potentially exhausting, variety of things to buy. Don’t miss our ‘Shopper’s Survival Guide’ with lots of useful tips, and vote for your favourite in our interactive ‘Top 10 Shopping Experiences in Bangkok’ feature. Whatever you choose to purchase, and wherever you may want to pursue it, be sure to polish your bargaining skills and sport a big smile – an important 'tool' to help you fetch the best prices.