Chatuchak
market: The world's biggest flea market
Among the markets in
Bangkokeasyguide.com, Chatuchak market
gets my highest recommendation.
It's a place for you to
experience at least once in a lifetime. With over 10,000 shops and 200,000
visitors per weekend, Chatuchak market
is believed to be
the
world’s biggest flea market having the
size and nature
far beyond I could explain
here.
Chatuchak market was established in 1948
based on the government policy to hold a
weekend market in every province
nationwide but was officially named 39
years later in 1987. It was also
relocated from Sanaam Luang (the huge
piece of land across from the Grand
Palace) to Chatuchak district in
1978, the year of Bangkok bicentennial
celebration. Among Thais,
Chatuchak market is also known as JJ (Jatujak)
market.
The market is divided into 26 sections such as antiques, Buddha amulets, furniture,
handicrafts, arts, books, clothes, pets,
ceramics, fresh and dry foods, etc.
With such a vast section, you can find
surprising items like dogs, cats, birds, fish,
iguana, guinea pigs, orchids, plants,
used sneakers (sports shoes,) plastic
shoes, etc. And there are things
where you can't
anywhere in Bangkok like rare DVDs,
CDs, and even LPs. It's likely
you'll end up spending more or less in
Chatuchak market.
Due to its size and setting, Chatuchak
market can be difficult to track your
directions. Therefore, either
you shop at first sight or if not, locate a
good landmark to track your way back. Also,
if you come with a friend, make sure to
arrange a meeting point in case of
lost.
The market is a lively, busy, hot,
humid, dehydrated (though water is for
sale everywhere,) and populated.
Chatuchak market is like a labyrinth (though there are map
signs here and there) where any shoppers
will experience the true meaning of
"Shop till you drop."
You are
forewarned.
Hours: 9 am -6 pm, Saturday-Sunday
Rating 5/5
Review
Chatuchak market opens only on
weekends. If you're a choosy
traveler with ample time, make a visit
to the market on Saturday. By
doing this, you can come again on Sunday
in case you want to shop more or else
you'll have to wait till next
weekend. This is a market best to
shop for fine handicrafts, home decor
items, and souvenirs. Further, you
don't have to hand carry bulky items
back home because there's an
international courier
service company right at the market..
Some shoppers feel Chatuchak market is
big and should more days.
Saturdays and Sundays are just too
short. Some find the market to be
overwhelmingly hot, busy, and
crowded. It's not a place for
everybody but definitely a must-see for
everyone. Finding your way in the
market is difficult since it is divided in
blocks versus curves. That said,
children should be carefully accompanied
by parents here. If you're here with
somebody, always arrange a meeting point
for an appointment or in case of lost.
(And the best is Kamphaeng Phet subway
station, Exit 2.) Chatuchak market
is ideal for
Budget shoppers 5/5
Handicraft shoppers 5/5
Pet shoppers 5/5
Plant and flower shoppers 4/5
Reviewer Chai
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