Warorot Market | Chiang Mai

Warorot Market (also known as Kad Luang) is one of the oldest and most vibrant markets in Chiang Mai, located near the Ping River. It offers an authentic glimpse into local life and is a favorite destination for both locals and tourists looking for a wide variety of goods, from fresh produce to traditional Thai handicrafts. The market is known for its bustling atmosphere, affordable prices, and diverse offerings.

Key Features and Attractions of Warorot Market

1. Local Food and Fresh Produce

• Warorot Market is a food lover’s paradise, with an abundance of fresh produce, spices, herbs, and locally made snacks. The market is filled with stalls selling fruits, vegetables, meat, seafood, and dried goods, all at affordable prices.
• You’ll find a variety of traditional Thai food available for sale, such as curry pastes, fried snacks, sweets, and dried fruit. Local delicacies like khao soi (northern Thai curry noodles) and sai ua (northern Thai sausage) are often served by street vendors around the market.
• Herbal products and traditional Thai remedies are also available, making it a great place to explore Thailand’s natural health products.

2. Traditional Thai Handicrafts and Souvenirs

• Warorot Market is also known for its selection of traditional Thai handicrafts. You can find a variety of items, including handwoven textiles, silver jewelry, wooden carvings, Thai ceramics, and local art.
• One of the highlights of the market is its extensive collection of northern Thai textiles, including cotton scarves, silk fabric, and the famous “mon” (Hill Tribe) textiles, which are used to make clothes and accessories. These items make for perfect souvenirs and gifts.
• The market is also a great place to buy baskets, wooden kitchenware, and other traditional items that represent the cultural heritage of northern Thailand.

3. Clothing and Accessories

• Warorot Market has a large section dedicated to clothing, where you can find both modern and traditional Thai garments at reasonable prices. There are stalls selling t-shirts, dresses, scarves, hats, and shoes, catering to a wide variety of tastes.
• If you’re interested in local fashion, the market also features several shops selling Lanna-style clothing, which reflects the region’s cultural identity through unique patterns and bright colors.

4. Local Herbal Remedies and Spices

• The market is a great place to discover traditional Thai medicine and herbal remedies. Many stalls sell herbal oils, balms, Thai teas, and spices that are used for both culinary and therapeutic purposes.
• If you're looking for a unique souvenir, you can purchase some of these traditional remedies, including lemongrass oil, eucalyptus balm, or Thai herbal massage oils.

5. The Night Market Vibe

• While Warorot Market is open throughout the day, it becomes especially lively in the evening when vendors set up street food stalls outside the market area. The Night Bazaar area extends towards Warorot, creating a vibrant street food scene filled with vendors offering grilled meats, noodles, roti, and other local specialties.
• After the sun sets, the market becomes busier, attracting both locals and tourists who are looking to enjoy dinner or snacks while shopping or exploring the streets.

6. Flower Market (Ton Lam Yai)

• Adjacent to Warorot Market is the Ton Lam Yai Flower Market, which specializes in a wide variety of fresh flowers. The flower market is known for its vibrant displays of orchids, roses, lotus, and other seasonal blooms, making it a picturesque and fragrant place to visit.
• This flower market is especially busy early in the morning, as it caters to both local florists and individuals looking to buy fresh flowers for religious offerings or personal use.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours

• Warorot Market operates daily, typically from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, the busiest and most exciting time to visit is in the evening when the market comes alive with food vendors and additional shops opening.
• The flower market is often busiest in the early morning, from around 5:00 AM to 9:00 AM, as florists and local vendors gather their flowers for sale.

Location

• Warorot Market is located at the intersection of Chang Moi Road and Wualai Road, near the Ping River. It is a short distance from the Old City, making it easy to reach from many of Chiang Mai’s key landmarks.

How to Get There

• By Foot: Warorot Market is just a short walk from the Old City of Chiang Mai, so it’s easily accessible if you’re staying nearby.
• By Taxi or Tuk-Tuk: Taxis and tuk-tuks can easily take you to the market. It’s also a common drop-off point for those staying at hotels in the Nimmanhaemin or Old City areas.
• By Bicycle: Chiang Mai is known for being a bike-friendly city, so renting a bicycle to explore the area and visit Warorot Market is another great option.

What to Expect

• The market can get crowded, especially in the late afternoon and evening, so it’s best to arrive early if you want a more relaxed shopping experience.
• Bargaining is common in Warorot Market, especially for goods like clothing and accessories. However, be polite and considerate when negotiating prices.
• It is important to note that the market is primarily a local market, so many of the stalls do not cater to tourists and may not offer English signage. A little bit of basic Thai or a translation app can be helpful.

Nearby Attractions

• Chiang Mai Gate: Located just a short distance from Warorot Market, Chiang Mai Gate is one of the original city gates and a great place to explore.
• Wat Phra Singh: One of Chiang Mai’s most important temples, located within walking distance from the market, with stunning Lanna-style architecture.
• Nimmanhaemin Road: A trendy area known for its cafes, boutiques, and art galleries. It’s a nice place to explore after visiting the market.

Conclusion

Warorot Market offers a rich, local experience where you can discover a mix of food, handicrafts, clothing, and traditional Thai products. It’s a place where you can truly feel the energy of Chiang Mai’s daily life, interact with local vendors, and shop for authentic products at reasonable prices. Whether you’re looking for fresh produce, a unique souvenir, or a delicious local meal, Warorot Market is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the vibrant culture of northern Thailand.