Introduction to Bangkok Souvenir Shopping

Bangkok is a shopper's paradise, offering everything from traditional handicrafts to modern designer goods. Whether you are looking for authentic Thai silk, unique artwork, or quirky souvenirs, the city has endless options to suit every budget and taste.

Top Markets for Souvenirs

Chatuchak Weekend Market

The world's largest weekend market with over 15,000 stalls spread across 35 acres.

Details	Information
Location	Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road
Hours	Sat-Sun 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Nearest BTS	Mo Chit Station
Nearest MRT	Chatuchak Park Station

Best Sections for Souvenirs:

• Section 22-24: Handicrafts and home decor
• Section 2-4: Antiques and collectibles
• Section 7: Thai art and paintings
• Section 17-19: Clothing and textiles

Price Range: 50-5,000 THB depending on item

Asiatique The Riverfront

A night market with over 1,500 boutiques in a converted warehouse district.

Details	Information
Location	Charoen Krung Road
Hours	Daily 5:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Access	Free shuttle boat from Saphan Taksin BTS

Best For: Traditional crafts, designer items, tourist-friendly shopping

MBK Center

Eight floors of shopping with competitive prices on electronics, clothing, and souvenirs.

Details	Information
Location	Phayathai Road
Hours	Daily 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Nearest BTS	National Stadium

Best Floors:

• 5th Floor: Handicrafts and souvenirs
• 6th Floor: Electronics and gadgets

Must-Buy Souvenirs

Thai Silk Products

Item	Price Range	Where to Buy
Silk scarves	300-2,000 THB	Jim Thompson House, MBK
Silk ties	500-3,000 THB	Jim Thompson outlets
Silk fabric (per meter)	400-1,500 THB	Pahurat Market
Silk pillowcases	200-800 THB	Chatuchak Market

Tip: Authentic Thai silk has irregular texture. Synthetic versions are too smooth.

Traditional Crafts

1. Celadon pottery - Beautiful green-glazed ceramics (200-5,000 THB)
2. Benjarong porcelain - Hand-painted five-color ceramics (500-10,000 THB)
3. Nielloware - Black silver jewelry and boxes (300-3,000 THB)
4. Lacquerware - Decorative boxes and trays (200-2,000 THB)

Edible Souvenirs

Item	Price	Best From
Thai tea leaves	50-200 THB	Chatuchak, Or Tor Kor
Dried mango	80-150 THB	Big C, Tesco Lotus
Coconut chips	40-100 THB	Supermarkets
Tom Yum paste	30-80 THB	Any supermarket
Thai curry kits	50-150 THB	Gourmet Market

Specialty Shopping Destinations

Jim Thompson House Shop

• Location: 6 Soi Kasemsan 2, Rama 1 Road
• Specialty: Premium Thai silk products
• Price: High-end (scarves from 2,000 THB)

Siam Paragon

• Location: Rama 1 Road
• Specialty: Luxury brands, designer souvenirs
• Hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Pratunam Market

• Location: Ratchaprarop Road
• Specialty: Wholesale clothing and accessories
• Price: Very affordable (T-shirts from 50 THB)

Sampeng Lane (Chinatown)

• Location: Yaowarat Road area
• Specialty: Wholesale trinkets, fabrics, toys
• Price: Cheapest in Bangkok

Bargaining Guide

Where to Bargain

• Street markets
• Chatuchak Market
• Small independent shops
• Night markets

Where NOT to Bargain

• Department stores
• Branded shops
• Supermarkets
• 7-Eleven and convenience stores

Bargaining Tips

1. Start at 50-60% of the asking price
2. Be polite and smile
3. Walk away if price doesnt drop
4. Buy multiple items for better deals
5. Have exact change ready
6. Never bargain then refuse to buy

Price Comparison Table

Item	Tourist Area	Local Market	Chatuchak
Elephant pants	200-350 THB	100-150 THB	120-180 THB
Chang beer T-shirt	250-400 THB	100-150 THB	100-180 THB
Small Buddha figurine	200-500 THB	80-150 THB	100-200 THB
Coconut shell bowl	150-300 THB	50-100 THB	60-120 THB

Practical Shopping Tips

Payment Methods

• Cash is king at markets (always carry small bills)
• Credit cards accepted at malls
• Some vendors accept mobile payment

Shipping Large Items

• Most shops can arrange international shipping
• Use EMS or DHL for valuable items
• Keep receipts for customs

Customs Considerations

• Antiques over 100 years need export permits
• Buddha images may require permits
• Check your home country import rules

Useful Thai Phrases for Shopping

• "Tao rai?" (เท่าไหร่) - How much?
• "Paeng pai" (แพงไป) - Too expensive
• "Lot noi dai mai?" (ลดหน่อยได้ไหม) - Can you reduce the price?
• "Ao an nee" (เอาอันนี้) - I want this one
• "Mai ao" (ไม่เอา) - I dont want it

Shopping Checklist

• Bring cash in small bills (20, 50, 100 THB)
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking
• Bring a reusable shopping bag
• Check luggage weight limits before buying
• Keep receipts for customs
• Compare prices at multiple stalls
• Arrive early for best selection
• Stay hydrated in the heat

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