Shopping in Bangkok

Background on Bangkok Shopping

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and the country’s commercial, spiritual, and educational hub.  Covering more than 1,500 square kilometers, it is home to approximately ten million people, more than 10% of the country's population.  Over the last 20-30 years, Bangkok has become modern and sophisticated, offering many bustling shopping districts nestled harmoniously within the gentle and ancient Thai culture. 

Bangkok Shopping Tips

Although department stores usually have fixed prices, negotiated bargaining is predominant throughout the city.  Even some department stores offer discounts on expensive items, depending on a bargainer’s skill and the shopkeeper’s mood.  It is good to remember that Thais are primarily Buddhists and thus admire civility and a sense of humor.  Becoming angry or overbearing won’t do much good in Thai bargaining.  

Where to Shop, What’s Available

There are numerous shopping districts in Bangkok.  Many luxury department stores and malls create the largest shopping promenade, called Ploenchit-Ratchaprasong.  Goods from all parts of the country are sold in their official handicraft center.  Ratchaprasong intersection also offers access to other shopping areas, such as Siam Square-Mah Boon Krong and Ploenchit-Sukhumvit, the latter a main road lined with modern shopping plazas and restaurants. Silom is the commercial heart of Bangkok with dozens of specialty shops and street stalls, and Pratunam-Phetchaburi, one of Bangkok’s biggest centers for ready-to-wear clothing attracts locals and tourists all year round.    

More Bangkok Shopping Areas

Other large shopping districts are: Chinatown, with numerous gold shops, fine gem stores and more traditional jewelry and clothes; Bang Lamphu, near the Grand Palace with a lively clothing market; Baiyoke Tower, a renowned garment center; Nailert Market, close to Pratunum with everything from clothing to handicrafts; Bo-Be Market, near Bangkok Railway Station, another ready-to-wear clothing center; Chatuchak Weekend Market, a paradise for browsers, bargain-hunters and art-lovers; and Pak Khlong Talat, a cut flower and vegetable wholesale market on Maharat Road near Memorial Bridge.  Other shopping districts include Bang Rak, Phayathai, Ratchatew and Pathum Wan.