ThailandTravel Tips

Transportation and Navigation around Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

1. How far is the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar from the city center?


The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is located in the city center, making it easily accessible from anywhere in the city.

2. Is there a specific area for taxis to pick up and drop off near the Night Bazaar?


Yes, there is a designated area for taxis to pick up and drop off near the Night Bazaar. It is located along Chang Klan Road, just outside the main entrance of the market. This area is also marked by a sign that says “Taxi Zone”. Taxis are not allowed to stop or park anywhere else along the road so as not to cause traffic congestion.

3. Are there any public transport options available to get to the Night Bazaar?

Yes, there are several public transport options available to get to the Night Bazaar. You can take a tuk-tuk, songthaew, or taxi from different parts of Chiang Mai. There is also a bus stop near the Night Bazaar where you can take buses to and from other areas in the city. Additionally, many hotels and guesthouses offer shuttle services to the Night Bazaar for their guests.

4. What type of transportation is recommended for getting around the Night Bazaar area?


The recommended type of transportation for getting around the Night Bazaar area is walking as most of the attractions and shops are within easy walking distance. Alternatively, you can also take a tuk-tuk or songthaew (local shared taxi) for short distances.

5. Are there any parking areas near the Night Bazaar?


Yes, there are several parking areas near the Night Bazaar. Some popular options include:

– The parking lot at Kalare Night Bazaar, which offers free parking for customers.
– Tha Pae Gate Parking Lot, located about 10 minutes walking distance from the Night Bazaar.
– Chiang Mai Land Parking Lot, also about 10 minutes walking distance from the Night Bazaar.
– Arcade Bus Station Parking Lot, located beside Chiang Mai Walking Street and just a short walk away from the Night Bazaar.

However, do note that these parking areas may get crowded during peak hours and festival periods. It is recommended to arrive early or take public transportation if possible.

6. Can I rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the Night Bazaar area?


Yes, there are several motorbike and bicycle rental shops available in the Night Bazaar area. Be sure to do your research and choose a reputable rental shop with properly maintained vehicles. Always wear a helmet and observe traffic rules and regulations while exploring the area on a motorbike or bicycle.

7. Are tuk-tuks easily accessible in and around the Night Bazaar?


Yes, tuk-tuks are easily accessible in and around the Night Bazaar. They can usually be found parked along the main roads and in front of popular hotels and tourist attractions. Additionally, there are usually tuk-tuk stands located near the Night Bazaar where you can easily hire one. You may also see tuk-tuks driving around the area, so you can simply flag one down if you need a ride.

8. How much does it cost to take a tuk-tuk or taxi from the Night Bazaar to nearby attractions such as Wat Chedi Luang or Tha Phae Gate?


The cost of a tuk-tuk or taxi from the Night Bazaar to nearby attractions can vary, but it typically ranges from 50-100 baht (approximately $1.50-$3 USD) depending on the distance and negotiation with the driver. It is recommended to negotiate the price before starting your journey to avoid any potential surprises.

9. Is it safe to walk around the Night Bazaar at night?

Yes, it is generally safe to walk around the Night Bazaar at night. The area is well-lit and there are typically a lot of people around, including tourists and locals. However, as with any crowded tourist area, it’s important to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings. It’s also recommended to avoid walking alone late at night and to take precautions such as keeping your valuables secure.

10. Are there any boat tours or cruises that depart from or go through the Night Bazaar?


Yes, there are several boat tours and cruises that depart from or go through the Night Bazaar area. Some popular options include river cruises on the Ping River, which can be booked at various tour agencies around the Night Bazaar, and private longtail boat tours that depart from the Iron Bridge. These tours often include stops at local markets and attractions along the river.

11. Can I hire a private driver to take me around various night markets in Chiang Mai, including the Night Bazaar?


Yes, you can hire a private driver to take you around various night markets in Chiang Mai, including the Night Bazaar. There are many local tour operators that offer private car services and tours tailored to your specific needs and preferences. You can book a private driver through your hotel or by contacting a tour company directly. However, keep in mind that hiring a private driver may be more expensive than taking public transportation or joining group tours.

12. Are there any cycling tours that include a stop at the Night Bazaar?


Yes, there are cycling tours available that include a stop at the Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai. These tours typically start in the morning and include various points of interest, including the Night Bazaar, as part of their route. Some tour companies also offer night time cycling tours specifically focused on exploring the Night Bazaar and its surrounding areas. It is best to research and contact tour companies directly to inquire about their specific itineraries and offerings.

13. Can I use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Uber to get around the Night Bazaar area?

Yes, both Grab and Uber are available in Chiang Mai and can be used to get around the Night Bazaar area. However, keep in mind that during peak hours or busy nights, you may encounter surge pricing which could make the ride more expensive than normal. It’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand as well in case your phone battery dies or you have trouble connecting to WIFI.

14. How often do red songthaews (shared taxis) pass by the Night Bazaar and where do they usually go?

Red songthaews pass by the Night Bazaar every few minutes and they usually go to destinations around Chiang Mai, including the Old City, Tha Pae Gate, Nimmanhaemin Road, and the Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station.

15. What are some popular places near the Night Bazaar that can be reached via public transport?

Some popular places near the Night Bazaar that can be reached via public transport are:

1. Chiang Mai Old City: Located about 1.5 km from the Night Bazaar, it is easily accessible by public transport like tuk-tuks and songthaews.

2. Doi Suthep Temple: This famous temple is located about 16 km from the Night Bazaar and can be reached by red songthaews or private taxis.

3. Chiang Mai Zoo: About 6 km from the Night Bazaar, this zoo can be accessed by public buses or tuk-tuks.

4. Chiang Mai National Museum: About 2 km from the Night Bazaar, this museum can be reached by tuk-tuks or songthaews.

5. Nimmanhaemin Road: This trendy street with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques is located about 2.5 km from the Night Bazaar and can be reached by local buses or tuk-tuks.

6. Warorot Market: This local market selling fresh produce, handicrafts, and street food is located about 3 km from the Night Bazaar and can be accessed by public buses or tuk-tuks.

7. Mae Ping River Cruise: A popular activity in Chiang Mai, a riverboat cruise trip can start from a pier near the Night Bazaar and take you to various destinations along the river.

8. Tha Pae Gate: One of the main gates to enter Chiang Mai’s old city, Tha Pae Gate is only about a kilometer away from the Night Bazaar and can be reached on foot or by tuk-tuks.

9. Tribal Village at Huay Tung Tao Lake: A beautiful spot for a day trip, Huay Tung Tao Lake is located about 15 km outside of Chiang Mai and can be accessed by red songthaews or private taxis.

10. Chiang Mai International Airport: The main airport in Chiang Mai is located about 5 km away from the Night Bazaar and can be reached by tuk-tuk, taxi, or a public bus.

16. Is there a map of public transportation routes and stops available for tourists near the Night Bazaar?

There are several options for finding a map of public transportation routes near the Night Bazaar:

1. The Chiang Mai Citylife website has a detailed interactive map of all the public transportation routes in Chiang Mai, including those near the Night Bazaar. You can access it by clicking here.

2. The official Chiang Mai tourism website also has a map of all the main public transportation routes in the city, which includes stops near the Night Bazaar. You can access it by clicking here.

3. Maps.me is a popular offline mapping app that has detailed maps of all the major public transportation routes in Chiang Mai. You can download and use this app even without internet access to navigate your way around the city.

4. If you prefer a physical map, you can pick up a copy at any tourist information center or at most hotels in Chiang Mai. These maps typically include information on public transportation routes and stops.

5. Google Maps is also a great resource for finding public transportation routes and stops near the Night Bazaar. Simply type in “Night Bazaar” as your destination and select the bus or train icon to see available options.

Overall, there are many resources available for finding maps of public transportation routes and stops near the Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai, so you should have no trouble navigating your way around using local buses, tuk-tuks, or songthaews (shared taxis).

17.What are some alternative ways of getting back to my accommodation if I miss public transport closing hours after visiting the Night Bazaar?


1. Use a local taxi or tuk-tuk: Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available at the Night Bazaar. You can negotiate a price with the driver to take you back to your accommodation.

2. Rent a bicycle: Many cities offer bike rentals that you can use to cycle back to your accommodation. It’s also a great way to explore the city at night.

3. Walk: If you live within walking distance of the Night Bazaar, consider walking back to your accommodation. It may take longer but it’s a good opportunity to soak in the atmosphere of the city at night.

4. Call a ride-sharing service: You can use popular ride-sharing services like Uber or Grab to get back to your accommodation. Just make sure you have internet access and enough battery on your phone.

5. Hire a private driver: Many tour companies offer private drivers for hire who can take you around the city and drop you off at your accommodation after visiting the Night Bazaar.

6. Use public bicycles: Some cities have public bicycles available for rent at various locations throughout the city. You can use these bikes to get back to your accommodation if they are available in the area near the Night Bazaar.

7. Stay nearby: If possible, try finding accommodation near the Night Bazaar so that you can easily walk back after your visit.

8.Use public transportation before they close: Plan ahead and leave the Night Bazaar earlier than closing hours so that you can catch public transport before it stops running for the day.

9. Ask for help from locals: Don’t be afraid to ask for help from locals if you are lost or need directions on how to get back to your accommodation.

10. Plan an alternative route beforehand: Before heading out, research alternate routes that might involve fewer transfers or different modes of transport in case you miss public transport closing hours.

11. Use a map app on your phone: Utilize map apps on your phone to find alternate routes or transportation options back to your accommodation.

12. Look for night buses: Some cities have night buses that operate until late hours, and they may have a stop near the Night Bazaar.

13. Stay at a friend’s place: If you have a local friend in the city, you can ask if you can stay at their place for the night.

14. Book a hotel nearby: If all else fails, you can book a hotel room or Airbnb near the Night Bazaar to stay for the night.

15. Ask for a ride from other travelers: Strike up a conversation with other travelers at the Night Bazaar and see if anyone is heading towards your accommodation or can give you a ride.

16. Use public transport early in the morning: Some public transport services start running again early in the morning, so you can wait it out and catch public transport back to your accommodation then.

17. Plan ahead when visiting the Night Bazaar: Make sure to plan your visit to the Night Bazaar accordingly so that you have enough time to explore and get back to your accommodation before public transport closing hours.

18.How early do services like songthaews, buses, and trains start operating in case I need an early start from the Night Bazaar?


The operating times for these services can vary, but typically they start as early as 5 or 6 am. It is best to check with the specific service provider for their exact schedule.

19.Is it possible to take a day trip from the Night Bazaar to nearby attractions like Doi Suthep or the Elephant Nature Park using public transport?


Yes, it is possible to take a day trip from the Night Bazaar to nearby attractions like Doi Suthep or the Elephant Nature Park using public transport. There are several options available such as taking a local bus, hiring a songthaew (shared taxi), or joining a organized tour with transportation provided. It is recommended to do some research and plan ahead to determine the best method of transportation for your desired destination.

20.What are some tips for negotiating prices with taxis and tuk-tuks around the Night Bazaar area?


1. Do your research: Before taking a taxi or tuk-tuk, find out the average price of similar rides in the area. This will give you an idea of what to expect and help you negotiate better.

2. Avoid peak hours: Prices tend to be higher during rush hour and late at night. Try to avoid these times if possible.

3. Use ride-hailing apps: Many Southeast Asian countries have ride-hailing apps like Grab or Go-Jek, which are usually cheaper than traditional taxis and tuk-tuks. Consider using these apps for a more transparent pricing system.

4. Ask for the meter: If taking a taxi, always insist on using the meter rather than negotiating a fixed price. This ensures you pay only for the distance traveled and not an inflated rate.

5. Negotiate firmly but politely: Taxis and tuk-tuks around tourist areas may try to charge higher prices, but they are usually open to negotiation. State your desired price confidently but politely, and be prepared to walk away if you can’t reach a reasonable agreement.

6. Travel in groups: Sharing a ride with other travelers can lower the cost for each person, so try to find others going in the same direction as you.

7. Keep small bills handy: Having exact change or smaller bills can make it easier to negotiate prices as tuk-tuks and taxis may claim they don’t have change for larger bills.

8. Consider alternative modes of transport: Depending on where you’re going, there may be other options such as buses or motorbike taxis that are cheaper than taxis and tuk-tuks.

9. Be aware of scams: Some drivers may try to take advantage of tourists by taking longer routes or claiming mechanical issues with their vehicle in order to charge more money. Keep an eye on your route using maps or GPS, and trust your instincts if something feels off.

10. Smile and be friendly: Engaging with the driver in a friendly manner can make the negotiation process more pleasant and may even result in a lower price.