Chiang Mai Gate Market — Attraction in Chiang Mai Province

Visiting the Chiang Mai night market is an experience that borders on the surreal - it's an absolute must-see for its sheer vibrancy and energy. The market is a bustling kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and smells that will envelop you from the moment you step in.

One of the undeniable highlights of this market is the food. The culinary offerings here are nothing short of spectacular, making it a paradise for food lovers. Each stall seems to outdo the next, serving up dishes that are not only mouthwateringly delicious but also prepared with a commendable level of cleanliness. Whether you're in the mood for local Thai delicacies or something more adventurous, you're in for a treat. It's advisable to arrive with an appetite because you'll want to try everything in sight!

However, the market's allure takes a bit of a dip when it comes to the shopping aspect. The majority of the merchandise on offer tends to fall into the category of cheap knockoffs or trivial souvenirs. While these items might serve as quirky reminders of your trip or as budget-friendly gifts for folks back home, they're not what you'd call quality purchases.In essence, the Chiang Mai night market is a place to immerse yourself in the local food scene and soak up the lively atmosphere. It's an experience worth having for the culinary adventure alone.

However, if you're looking to do some serious shopping, you might want to temper your expectations.

Overall, I'd rate the experience 3 out of 5 stars - go for the food and the experience, but perhaps skip...

I lived for 4 months in Chiang Mai and the Night Market at Chiang Mai gate was a regular spot to go for dinner. There's also a day or "wet" market at this location that's more popular with locals buying provisions and for the few restaurants inside. Across the street in the evening you'll find vendors lining the roadway. The second vendor from Chiang Mai gate has been making Som Tom green papaya salad for the last 30 years, and it's the absolute best I've had in Thailand. Near the Western end in the center of the market across the street from the wet market you'll find a very nice and very busy woman and her daughter selling the best fruit shakes at the cheapest price you're going to find anywhere, 20฿ for all flavors. Also along the south side you'll find KFG and excellent panko deep fried chicken and shrimp for 50฿. On the north side keep an eye peeled for the "cake lady" who sells decadent sweet treats for 25-40฿. Near the cake lady keep an eye out for eggs on a skewer. A hole is poked in the shell, seasonings added, then the eggs are stirred up through the hole, steamed and then skewered and grilled over charcoal....

Food market with at least 20 food stalls where everyone can find something for them selves. Unless you're a vegan :-( Most of the stalls offers traditional Thai food, but you can find also some western food like burger or burrito. If you have a feeling for a sweet tooth there is stall with crepes with Nutella or fruits. Also fresh fruits. On my first visit I've found 1 stall with some vegan options which was stir fried noodles with Thai basil and tofu - pretty good, just too oily for my test. On my second visit, the mentioned stall was gone, so apparently the food stalls are changing. And I was struggling to find anything vegan. In one place lady agree to make vegetarian pad thai without an egg to have vegan version. Although it was the worst pad thai in my life. Lack of taste, overdone rice noodles, literally few bean sprouts. Basically a place for...