Top 12 Food Markets In Chiang Mai For A Delicious Culinary Experience

One of the bustling Chiang Mai food markets is the supermarket with delicious sushi bars.

The food markets in Chiang Mai are a heaven for food lovers from all round the globe. Here the aromas of sizzling street food, fragrant spices, and freshly prepared local delicacies fill the air, offering a true taste of Northern Thailand. Whether you’re wandering through the night bazaars or exploring morning markets, each stop is a chance to experience authentic Thai flavours. It ranges from classic street food staples to underrated spots. Chiang Mai’s food scene is diverse, rich in history, and a must-visit for any traveller seeking a true culinary adventure.

12 Best Food Markets In Chiang Mai

Let’s explore the 12 best food markets in Chiang Mai, offering a true delight for food-lovers from across the world:

1. Warorot Market (Kad Luang)

Warorot Market, known as "The Great Kat," showcases vibrant daily life with diverse agricultural and flower markets.

Photo: Christophe95 / Wikimedia Commons

Warorot Market, locally known as Kad Luang, is one of Chiang Mai’s oldest and most renowned food markets. Located near the Ping River, it is a hotspot for authentic Northern Thai cuisine. Being the best street food market in Chiang Mai, it offers a vast selection of fresh produce, snacks, and traditional sweets. Beyond food, it’s a great place to shop for textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs, making it a must-visit spot for culture and cuisine enthusiasts.

Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM, daily
Must Try Dishes: Sai Ua (Northern Thai sausage), Nam Phrik Num (green chilli dip), and Moo Yo (Vietnamese-style pork sausage)

2. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Bustling Night Market on Wua Lai Road, Chiang Mai, filled with vibrant stalls and lively souvenirs.

Photo: Dennis G. Jarvis / Wikimedia Commons

As the sun sets, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar transforms into a lively spot of street food vendors, souvenir stalls, and entertainment. Located in the heart of the city, this expansive local food market in Chiang Mai is known for its variety of dishes. These range from grilled seafood and satay skewers to international options like sushi and burgers. The bazaar is perfect for travellers looking to savour diverse flavours while soaking in the city’s energetic nightlife.

Timings: 6 PM – midnight, daily
Must Try Dishes: Grilled seafood, Pad Thai, and mango sticky rice

3. Chang Phuak Gate Night Market

Chang Phuak Gate Night Food Market in Chiang Mai, famous for street food and Cowboy Hat Lady’s pork.

Photo: Sharon Hahn Darlin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Also known as the North Gate Night Market, Chang Phuak Gate Night Market is heaven for street food lovers. The market is famed for its khao kha moo (braised pork leg rice) served by the famous ‘Cowboy Hat Lady.’ With its affordable prices and variety of local dishes, this night food market in Chiang Mai is a favourite. This is among both tourists and locals looking for an authentic culinary experience.

Timings: 5 PM – midnight, daily
Must Try Dishes: Khao Kha Moo (braised pork leg rice), Boat Noodles, and coconut pancakes

4. Chiang Mai Gate Market

Food Market in Chiang Mai bustling with street stalls, showcasing vibrant souvenirs.

Photo: LannaPhoto / Wikimedia Commons

Chiang Mai Gate Market is a popular food market that operates both in the morning and at night. During the evening, the market becomes the go-to place for street food lovers. One of the must-try dishes here is khao soi, a creamy coconut-based noodle soup that embodies Northern Thai flavours. This food market in Chiang Mai is a great place to interact with friendly vendors. You can also experience the authentic charm of Chiang Mai’s food scene.

Timings: 4 AM – 12 PM; 5 PM – midnight, daily
Must Try Dishes: Khao Soi (curry noodle soup), Som Tam (papaya salad), and Thai Omelette

5. Mueang Mai Market

Bustling Mueang Mai Market in Chiang Mai, filled with fresh ingredients, street food, and Thai iced coffee.

Photo: mohigan / Wikimedia Commons

Mueang Mai Market is the go-to place for fresh ingredients, among the the food markets in Chiang Mai. It is primarily a wholesale market supplying restaurants and street vendors. Being an excellent spot for food lovers, you can seek a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the local culinary world. This, among the food markets in Chiang Mai, is famous for its stalls serving quick snacks and Thai-style iced coffee. The authentic, no-frills atmosphere makes it a fascinating stop to experience the daily life of Chiang Mai’s food scene.

Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM, daily
Must Try Dishes: Fresh fruits, Thai-style iced coffee, and quick snacks

6. Khao Soi Khun Yai

A bowl of Chiang Mai’s famous khao soi is a popular dish at the Food Market in Chiang Mai

Photo: Takeaway / Wikimedia Commons

For a taste of Chiang Mai’s signature dish, khao soi, Khao Soi Khun Yai is a must-visit eatery. This humble, family-run stall serves some of the best khao soi in the city, featuring rich coconut curry broth, tender meat, and crispy fried noodles on top. The balance of flavours in this dish is exemplary, making it a favourite among locals and tourists. The eatery’s simplicity, combined with its mouthwatering food, ensures an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.

Timings: 10 AM – 2 PM, Monday to Saturday
Must Try Dishes: Khao Soi with chicken or beef

7. Sunday Night Market

Wat Inthakin Sadue Muang during the Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market.

Photo: Christophe95 / Wikimedia Commons

Every Sunday, Rachadamnoen Road turns into a pedestrian street market filled with food vendors, artists, and performers. These Sunday food markets in Chiang Mai are perfect for sampling a variety of street food. Stalls also sell handmade crafts and souvenirs, making it a fantastic destination for both shopping and dining. The lively atmosphere, combined with the aromas of sizzling street food, makes for an immersive cultural experience.

Timings: 4 PM – midnight, every Sunday
Must Try Dishes: Grilled Skewers, Mango Sticky Rice, and Traditional Thai Desserts

8. Kalare Night Bazaar

Kalare Night Bazaar offers street food, live music, traditional dance, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Photo: Chait Goli / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Kalare Night Bazaar is a slightly quieter alternative to the main Night Bazaar, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. This, among the food markets in Chiang Mai, features a food court where visitors can enjoy classic Thai dishes. Traditional dance performances and live music add to the overall experience. This market is ideal for those who want to enjoy Chiang Mai’s vibrant street food scene while taking in some cultural entertainment.

Timings: 6 PM – 11 PM, daily
Must Try Dishes: Spicy Papaya Salad, Grilled Seafood, and Pad Thai

9. WuaLai Walking Street

Lantern-lit WuaLai Walking Street market in Chiang Mai, filled with food stalls, souvenirs, and live performances.

Photo: chootrong / Wikimedia Commons

Held every Saturday, WuaLai Walking Street is a must-visit for food lovers and souvenir hunters. Known for its silverware shops, the market also boasts an array of food stalls offering local delicacies. The charming lantern-lit streets and live performances make it a great place to explore. You can eat, and soak up the lively atmosphere of this market, one of the best food markets in Chiang Mai.

Timings: 5 PM – 10:30 PM, every Saturday
Must Try Dishes: Thai-style Grilled Pork, Steamed Dumplings, roti pancakes

10. Anusarn Market

A picture of hanging lamps illuminated at a bustling night market in Sri Lanka

Photo: Iain Cameron / Wikimedia Commons

Anusarn Market is one of Chiang Mai’s most popular food spots. Located in the heart of the city, this lively night market offers a variety of local Thai dishes and international treats. The stalls serve everything from tasty street snacks and spicy curries to fresh seafood and sweet desserts. The friendly atmosphere and delicious food aromas create a warm and inviting experience for every visitor. Whether you’re a local or a traveller, a visit to Anusarn Market is a great way to enjoy authentic flavours and immerse yourself in Chiang Mai’s vibrant food culture.

Timings: 5 PM – 11 PM
Must Try Dishes: Seafood BBQ, khao soi (northern Thai curry noodle soup), mango sticky rice, and grilled meats

11. Ton Lamyai Market

A picture of a bustling market with numerous food stalls and shops in Chiang Mai

Photo: Elgaard / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Ton Lamyai Market is one of Chiang Mai’s busiest markets, well known for its vibrant display of fresh flowers and a range of tasty local food. Neighbouring the famous Warorot Market, this lively spot offers a real taste of everyday Chiang Mai life. Open almost round the clock, the market invites you to wander through its narrow lanes where colourful blooms mix with stalls selling delicious Thai snacks and refreshing drinks. The friendly atmosphere and array of flavours make it a perfect stop for food lovers keen to explore the authentic, unhurried charm of Chiang Mai’s street food scene.

Timings: 5 AM – 5 PM
Must Try Dishes: Fresh tropical fruits, herbal teas, and local Thai snacks

12. The Coconut Market

A picture of a delicious coconut soup served at a restaurant in Chiang Mai’s Coconut Market

Photo: Tomer Gabel / Wikimedia Commons

The Coconut Market is one of Chiang Mai’s hidden gems for food lovers. Located in a lush, open-air setting surrounded by coconut groves, it offers a peaceful daytime experience far from the busy night markets. Here, you can sample a variety of delicious treats featuring fresh coconut in many forms, from cooling coconut water and sweet desserts to savoury snacks made with a local twist. The market has a friendly and relaxed vibe, where vendors share traditional recipes and stories behind each dish. For anyone eager to taste authentic Thai flavours while enjoying nature’s calm, The Coconut Market is a delightful stop on your culinary journey in Chiang Mai.

Timings: Open on weekends from 8 AM – 10 PM
Must Try Dishes: Coconut ice cream, coconut pies, and various Thai snacks

Food markets in Chiang Mai are a feast for the senses, offering a diverse range of flavours and culinary experiences. Whether you’re savouring khao soi at a famous stall or exploring a vibrant food market in Chiang Mai, the city’s street food culture is second to none. From traditional markets to modern food courts, there’s something for every taste and budget. To make the most of your Chiang Mai culinary adventure, book a travel package with TripXL. This ensures a hassle-free and flavour-packed journey through this food lover’s paradise.

Cover Photo: Alpha / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, most markets operate daily throughout the year, though some may have reduced hours during holidays.
A decent meal at a food market typically costs between 40 THB - 150 THB / ₹102 - ₹380, depending on the dish and location.
Yes, several markets, including Chang Phuak Gate Night Market, have halal-certified stalls serving dishes like grilled meats and curries.
Most vendors accept cash, but some larger stalls may accept digital payments like QR codes.
Tuk-tuks, songthaews (shared red trucks), and taxis are convenient options to get to the food markets in Chiang Mai.
Don’t miss Khao Soi (a rich coconut curry noodle soup), Sai Ua (northern Thai sausage), and Nam Prik Ong (a spicy tomato chilli dip). They’re considered the most famous food in Chiang Mai.
Yes, there’s plenty of non-veg food in Chiang Mai, such as grilled meats, fried chicken, pork skewers, and seafood dishes, all freshly prepared at the night markets and food stalls.
For authentic street food in Chiang Mai, head to Chang Phuak Gate Market (North Gate), where you’ll find everything from pork leg rice to grilled satays served by friendly local vendors.

Recommended Articles

Leave a Reply

Top Travel Destinations by Month