Chatuchak Weekend Market – Bangkok’s Bargain Treasure Hunt
If you’re a golfer who loves to shop, eat, and explore local vibes, there’s no better place in Bangkok than the iconic Chatuchak Weekend Market. Located in the northern part of the city and easily accessible from Rajpruek Golf Club and other Bangkok-area courses, this massive market is the perfect place to cool down and stock up after a round. With over 15,000 stalls covering everything from fashion and antiques to pets and plants, Chatuchak is not just a market — it’s a full-blown cultural experience.
What Makes Chatuchak Special?
Often called the largest weekend market in the world, Chatuchak is a sprawling labyrinth of lanes, sections, and surprises. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, tasting local snacks, or just people-watching, it offers a vibrant slice of Thai city life that contrasts beautifully with a quiet day on the golf course.
What to Buy
- Local Clothing: Affordable Thai-designed shirts, beachwear, golf polos, and custom t-shirts.
- Handicrafts: Bamboo goods, ceramic dishes, handmade jewelry, and woven baskets.
- Thai Souvenirs: Herbal balms, soaps, silk scarves, spices, and carved wooden items.
- Home Decor: Lamps, art prints, and vintage collectibles for design lovers.
Foodie Paradise
Chatuchak is also a dream destination for food lovers. Sample grilled pork skewers (moo ping), mango sticky rice, Thai iced tea, or explore unique treats like fried insects and coconut ice cream. There are both sit-down eateries and quick grab-and-go stalls, so you can pace your adventure based on how much time you have post-golf.
How to Get There
- By Taxi or Car: Only 20–30 minutes from Rajpruek Golf Club, depending on traffic.
- By BTS/MRT: Take the BTS Skytrain to Mo Chit or the MRT to Chatuchak Park Station — both drop you right at the market’s entrance.
When to Visit
- Open Hours: Saturday & Sunday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (some sections open on Friday evenings).
- Best Time: Mornings (before noon) or late afternoon (after 3:30 PM) for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
Nearby Golf Courses
- Rajpruek Golf Club: A serene 18-hole parkland course within the city, offering excellent conditions and elegant clubhouse facilities.
- Northern Bangkok Public Courses: Riverdale, Bangkok Golf Club, and Alpine are all within 30–45 minutes from Chatuchak.
Suggested Golf + Market Day Plan
- Morning: Tee off early at Rajpruek Golf Club → shower and change at the clubhouse.
- Midday: Taxi to Chatuchak → grab lunch and iced Thai tea at the market.
- Afternoon: Shop for souvenirs and relax with a massage at one of the air-conditioned booths.
Where to Stay
Chatuchak is easily reachable from central Bangkok, so you can stay near golf hubs and still enjoy a day at the market. Book accommodations through our affiliate travel partners:
- Expedia – Find hotels with access to golf and markets
- Hotels.com – Search stays near BTS Skytrain and Chatuchak
- Orbitz – Plan a weekend with golf and shopping
Tips for Visiting
- Wear comfortable shoes — you’ll walk a lot!
- Stay hydrated — it gets hot, especially midday.
- Carry cash — some vendors don’t accept cards, but ATMs are available onsite.
- Use Google Maps or download the market layout — the stalls are grouped by category (e.g., fashion, art, antiques).
Why Golfers Love It
For golf travelers in Bangkok, Chatuchak offers a refreshing break from structured tee times. It's spontaneous, social, and full of life — from quirky souvenirs to local eats. Whether you’re buying golf-themed tees or bartering for home gifts, the experience is unforgettable.
Conclusion
The Chatuchak Weekend Market is an essential Bangkok destination for golfers who want to blend leisure, culture, and shopping. Plan your game in the morning and let this sprawling bazaar take you on a colorful ride through Thailand’s artisan soul. Don’t forget to leave room in your suitcase! ← Back to Places of Interest in Thailand
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