With 8,000 to 10,000 vendors taking part each weekend, the Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the largest markets in all of South East Asia, and a rather extraordinary happening that attracts every weekend over 200,000 visitors. Obviously not a place for the faint-hearted, the 35-acre area of Chatuchak's organized chaos is still certainly worth diving into to try to take in the amount of goods displayed here from all over the world.
The craze for all things vintage and antique has not bypassed Asia, and Chatuchak Weekend Market is staking its claim for being the market most worth visiting for hopes of finding that perfect item, alongside the established heart of vintage shopping at the Ratchada Train Market and the famous Talad Rot Fai – Train Night Market. Those interested specifically in antiques should take note: there is a certain section of Chatuchak Weekend Market that your attention should be focused on, so no need to be daunted by the 10,000 vendor options!
In some effort to organize the premise, the Chatuchak Weekend Market has been divided in 27 themed sections. Sections 1 and 26 are where antique enthusiasts should plot a course to, though it may prove impossible to not get distracted by other vendors along the labyrinth. Stalls vary greatly in price, so it is generally recommended to get a good look around before deciding on a purchase. However, it is advised to mark points of interest on a map app to have any hope of finding them again! Items for sale are almost limitless, and include 1920s to 1970s furniture, antique Hindu and Buddhist sculptures (beware of replicas), gramophones, antique cameras, mechanical pieces, lighting and Asian decor, textiles, wood carvings, vintage prints, antique architectural items and salvage, jewelry, traditional clothing, porcelain, and countless other items.
As well as the 'main' streets of Chatuchak Weekend Market, it is also worth exploring the side alleys and joining roads, like for instance the nearby Chatuchak Playground antique flea market, which also lurks some real quality antique and vintage items. The whole market is a real treasure trove, and the shopping experience here is a true adventure!
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