Warorot Market (Kad Luang)
Chiang Mai, Thailand · Food
About Warorot Market (Kad Luang)
Warorot Market, known locally as Kad Luang, is Chiang Mai's oldest and most iconic public market situated near the Ping River. It is celebrated as the authentic heart of northern Thai commerce, offering everything from local pantry staples to vibrant textiles. Visiting this multi-story landmark gives travelers a genuine, aromatic glimpse into daily life and Lanna culinary culture.
Don't miss
- Sample freshly grilled northern Thai sausage (sai oua) and crispy pork rinds paired with spicy green chili dip.
- Stock up on packaged edible souvenirs like dried mango, longan, herbal teas, and regional curry pastes.
- Wander the upper floors to browse rolls of traditional hill-tribe fabrics, cotton clothing, and handicrafts.
- Walk across the alleyway to Ton Lam Yai Market to admire overflowing stalls of fresh orchids and jasmine garlands.
Plan your visit
Visit in the morning between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM when the market is bustling with locals and the indoor aisles are cooler. The dry winter months from November to February provide the most comfortable weather for exploring on foot.
Entry to the market is completely free, and no tickets or advance bookings are required. You only need to pay cash directly to individual vendors for food and goods.
The market is located just east of the Old City along the Ping River, roughly a 10-minute ride by red songthaew or tuk-tuk from Tha Phae Gate. Energetic visitors can also walk there in about 15 to 20 minutes from the eastern gate.
Tips for visiting
- Carry plenty of small cash notes and coins, as card payments are virtually non-existent among stalls.
- Wear breathable clothes and closed-toe, non-slip shoes because the aisles are narrow and can occasionally be wet.
- Do not hesitate to ask vendors for a taste before committing to buy bulk dried fruits or snacks.
- Head down to the basement food area for an affordable, authentic bowl of khao soi or noodle soup.
- Pack an insulated tote bag or reusable shopping bag to carry your edible souvenirs and snacks easily.
Warorot Market (Kad Luang) FAQ
What is the difference between Warorot Market and Ton Lam Yai Market?
The two markets sit directly across a narrow street from each other and form one giant shopping district. Warorot focuses largely on dry foods, clothing, and packaged snacks, whereas Ton Lam Yai is famous for fresh flowers, fresh produce, and seafood.
Are prices negotiable at Warorot Market?
Bargaining is polite and acceptable when buying clothes, handicrafts, or large quantities of dried goods. Ready-to-eat street foods and small pre-packaged snacks have fixed prices that are already very cheap.
Can vegetarian travelers find things to eat here?
While the market is famed for pork sausages and rinds, vegetarians can easily find fresh tropical fruit, mango sticky rice, and steamed corn. Look out for stalls marked with yellow flags and red text indicating 'jay' vegetarian food.
When does the market close?
The main indoor building generally shuts down around 6:00 PM every evening. However, the street stalls outside transition into evening food vendors, and the neighboring flower market stays active around the clock.
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AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: Josch13, hereisthailand on Pixabay.