💙 The Heart of Local Life: Warorot Market (Kad Luang), Chiang Mai

Warorot Market, locally known as Kad Luang, is one of the most vibrant and authentic places in Chiang Mai. Located near the Ping River, this bustling market has been part of daily life for generations. From early morning until late afternoon, the market comes alive with the sounds of vendors calling out, shoppers chatting, and the constant movement that makes Kad Luang feel full of energy and character.

Walking through the market is a feast for the senses. Rows of stalls offer everything from fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices to Northern Thai snacks and ready-to-eat dishes. The aroma of grilled sausages, sticky rice, fried garlic, and chili paste fills the air, tempting visitors at every turn. It’s a perfect place to explore traditional Lanna flavors and discover foods you may not find in modern shopping centers.

Beyond food, Warorot Market is also known for its wide variety of local products. You’ll find colorful textiles, hill-tribe clothing, flowers, household items, and traditional Thai goods all in one place. The market feels wonderfully unpolished and real, reflecting everyday Chiang Mai life rather than a tourist-designed experience. Locals and visitors shop side by side, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

One of the charms of Kad Luang is how it connects the past with the present. Many stalls have been run by the same families for decades, and the market still maintains its original structure and layout. Even as the city grows and modernizes, Warorot Market remains a cultural anchor, preserving traditions through food, language, and community interaction.

A visit to Warorot Market is more than just shopping—it’s a chance to experience the rhythm of Chiang Mai. Whether you’re wandering with a camera, tasting local snacks, or simply observing daily life, Kad Luang offers an honest and unforgettable glimpse into the soul of the city.

Warorot Market is one of Chiang Mai’s most iconic and historic local markets. Located near the Ping River and close to Chinatown (Chang Moi Road area), it’s a lively place where locals shop daily for food, household goods, fabrics, and traditional Northern Thai items.

What You Can Find There

• Local snacks & Northern Thai food – sai ua (ไส้อั่ว), nam prik, fried pork, dried fruit

• Fresh flowers & produce – very colorful and affordable

• Clothes & accessories – including traditional Northern-style clothing

• Bags, baskets & handicrafts

• Chinese and herbal goods due to its location near Chinatown

• Souvenirs at good prices compared to tourist markets

Opening Hours

Most shops open around 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM, but some food stalls open earlier.

🌆 Nearby Places

• Ton Lamyai Market (flower market)

• Chinatown area

• Ping River walkway