Anusan Night Market

Thailand is country filled with markets. They've got fish markets, food markets, wood markets, flower markets, clothing markets, gem markets and just about any other market you can possibly think of. If I was to recommend just one market however, it would definitely be the Anusan Night Market or just "Night Bazaar" as it is often referred to in Chiang Mai.

Now at this point, if you've ever visited any market in Bangkok, or any other big city in Asia for that matter, you might ask yourself - Why would anyone recommend any market in the first place? They stink, they're dirty, they're a haven for pickpockets and you can't take a step without anyone trying to sell you a pair of authentic Nikee Shoes or a grand Rolax watch. But this is where the Anusan Night Market separates itself from other markets.

Maybe it's because this bazaar is mostly frequented by locals, or maybe it's just Chiang Mai's peaceful atmosphere of simplicity and honesty that seeps through into the Anusan Night Market. Whatever it is, this market has everything you could ever want for in a bazaar. Here you can walk around and enjoy your evening, stopping at stalls because they look interesting, not because someone drags you into it by one arm. Thai art and collectibles, cheap clothing, all sorts of electronics, and most importantly, a larger selection of new, exciting and delicious (although sometimes a little bit frightening too) food than you are likely to see anywhere else in Thailand. Whether it is green curry, Khao Pad, Gai pad grapao, Tom Yam soup or Gai pad med mamoung himaphan you heart desires, they'll have it here. And for dessert, a breathtaking display of hundred of different cooked, roasted and deep fried insects. Try you luck with some curried grasshoppers or maybe pepper silk worms is more your taste?

Whether you are there for the food or the shopping or simply to soak up some age old original Thai culture, you won't leave disappointed. 

There are some great options for eating real Thai food here. Plenty of places to choose from, some great seafood on display, and a bit of staged cultural entertainment too. 

I couldn't tell you the name of the place we ate but the food was great. The huge menu was in English but the dishes came authentically spiced. We had a cauldron of bubbling fish soup, spicy squid salad, stir fried greens, steamed rice and a Chang or two. All delicious and reasonably priced. 

I'm sure the different restaurants vary in quality but the simple outdoor market setting and genuine Thai food make this well worth recommending. It's very close to the Night Market but offers a much more ‘Thai’ experience at much better prices.