Introduction: Visiting Chatuchak and Or Tor Kor Markets
During my October 2022 trip to Bangkok, I spent time exploring the vibrant Chatuchak area. While the main market is famous, I’ve found that combining a visit to the main stalls with a stop at the nearby Or Tor Kor Market for fresh fruit is the best way to experience the area. Over time, my shopping habits have shifted from buying generic souvenirs like elephant pants to seeking out unique art and practical home goods.
Transportation: Taxi Tips and Highway Usage
When traveling from Shangri-La Bangkok to Chatuchak, I always recommend taking a taxi via the highway. It typically takes about 20 minutes, and I find it worth the extra cost to avoid traffic. The total fare, including the 50 THB toll, usually comes to around 180 THB. For convenience, I prefer to be dropped off and picked up at JJ Mall rather than the main market entrance.
Shopping Comparison: Chatuchak Market vs. JJ Mall vs. Mixt Chatuchak
I’ve frequented JJ Mall for years because it offers a much more comfortable shopping environment, including clean restrooms and a reliable place to grab a meal. While the main Chatuchak market is vast, JJ Mall carries about 80% of the same items in a more relaxed setting.
I also explored the newer Mixt Chatuchak building, which is air-conditioned and features escalators. While it is very comfortable, I noticed that the prices there are generally higher than at JJ Mall.
Shopping Highlights: Finding Unique Art and Affordable Wooden Tableware
During my visit to the Mixt Chatuchak building, I discovered a stall on the first floor selling hand-drawn portraits of soccer players. I picked up two small prints—one of Kevin De Bruyne and one of Park Ji-sung—for 250 THB each, totaling 500 THB. It felt like a much more personal souvenir than the typical market fare.
For home goods, I headed to the basement of JJ Mall. I found that wooden tableware is significantly more affordable here than in the main market or at malls like ICONSIAM. While large wooden bowls start at 350 THB in the main Chatuchak market, they start at just 200 THB at JJ Mall. Plus, the prices are clearly marked, which makes the shopping experience much smoother.
Food Experience: Why Or Tor Kor Market is the Best for Fresh Fruit
No trip to this area is complete without a stop at Or Tor Kor Market. The quality of the fruit here is exceptional—often better than what you find in department stores.
I highly recommend trying the durian and mangosteen here. I bought a pre-cut portion of durian for 180 THB; it was incredibly creamy and lacked the unpleasant odor often associated with it. Even for someone like me who is usually sensitive to smells, it was delicious. For mangosteen, I followed recommendations to find a specific vendor who helped me select the best ones. Back at the hotel, every single one was fresh, sweet, and perfectly ripe.
Practical Tips
- Navigation: Use JJ Mall as your primary landmark for taxis to ensure a comfortable start and end to your trip.
- Pricing: Always check the basement level of JJ Mall for wooden goods before committing to higher prices elsewhere.
- Quality: If you want the best fruit experience in Bangkok, prioritize Or Tor Kor over supermarket options.
