While most tourists are well-acquainted with the popular Chatuchak, Pratunam and Siam markets, these aren't the go-to places for local shoppers. In most commercial areas in and around central Bangkok, there are weekday street markets that sell all kinds of wares from clothes, shoes and bags to household goods, toiletries, to fresh vegetables and all kinds of knick-knacks and daily necessities, all at bargain prices.
These 'talad nad' (pronounced 'talaat-nut') are the Thai equivalent of flea markets, and are often set up in large tents, from around 10 am to 2 pm, with a variety of stalls that change every day of the week. The markets peak in their bustle during noon, when office-goers are out and about on their lunch hour breaks, and usually close down by late afternoons. Many busy working moms do their entire shopping at these markets. For clothing, though prices may be a little higher than those at the markets in Pratunam, the better shopping experience and lesser stress makes the difference worth it. There are many such markets around the city, but here are a selection of some established ones in the heart of downtown:
- Lalai Sap Market on Silom Road Soi 5 (near BTS Sala Daeng and Chongnonsi stations).
- Saladaeng Market on Saladaeng Road (at BTS Sala Daeng), about half-way inside the street, at the corner of the Yommarat Alley.
- Tonson Market on Phloenchit Road, next to Tonson Tower.
