Suanlum Night Bazaar

Before planning your weekend to the world's biggest flea market, Chatuchak market, you may first want to warm up at Suanlum Night Bazaar.  It's cozier, cooler, less noisy and crowded.  Plus, it's open every night.     

Suanlum night bazaar rests on the land once was the pre-military academy and it is the biggest night market in Bangkok.  The market is the miniature of Chatuchak market focusing mainly on Thai handicrafts along with clothes, CDs/DVDs, sports shoes, paintings, etc.  A one stop place where you can shop and eat before bedtime.  Besides hundreds of stores, the market accommodates Asian and western restaurants, an entertainment hall, a football field food center and beer garden (with free live music.)  There is also the renowned Joe Louis Theater's classical show on Thai puppets.  Suanlum night bazaar was founded partially to draw tourists from the crowded, sexual, and busy Patpong night market.  Since then, it has become a spot among Bangkok people for drinks, dinner, and shopping.

Be sure to show up here after 6 pm., if you're here earlier, not all shops are yet open.  Suanlum Night Bazaar is a good option to shop for Thai handicrafts without having to wait for Chatuchak market which opens only on weekends.  The bazaar is a must see for any visitors to Bangkok.  

Hours: Recommended 6:30-11:30pm. Beer garden opens at 4pm.  Daily

Important note 
Many (in fact, so many) tourists end up in Lumpini park instead of Suanlum Night Bazaar, both places are neighbors divided by Wireless road (Thanon Witthayu.)  If you're lost in Lumpini park, use the exit at the clock tower, Suanlum Night Bazaar is just right across from your exit.   

Rating 5/5
  
Review
If your visit to Suanlum Night Bazaar for just shopping, then you're here for merely 60 percent.  This bazaar was established as a place for your entire night covering eating, shopping, and entertainment.  With numerous cozy restaurants carrying Asian and western cuisines, a huge beer garden with free music, Suanlum Night Bazaar is your nightlife.  This place is organized in blocks so it is quite easy to navigator amidst the cool weather over a relaxing atmosphere.  Some repeat travelers to Bangkok always include Suanlum Night Bazaar in their itinerary again and again.

Suanlum Night Bazaar opens only at night and most shops carry the same kinds of items.  You don't have much shopping options here compared to Chatuchak market.  Despite the numerous eateries at the bazaar, many are not as tasteful as where you can find in other shopping areas.  

Suanlum Night Bazaar is ideal for
Night time shoppers 5/5
Handicraft shoppers 4/5 
Romantic couples 4/5


Reviewer Chai