Chiang Mai Gate Market

Overview

Chiang Mai Gate Market is a small but beloved local breakfast market just outside the southern gate of the Old City. Every morning, vendors set up plastic tables and serve classic northern Thai dishes to a crowd of residents, monks, and in-the-know travellers.

Highlights

• Khao Soi: Several stalls serve this iconic northern Thai coconut-curry noodle soup—compare and pick your favourite.
• Jok (Rice Porridge): A warming bowl of jok with pork and ginger, a quintessential Thai breakfast.
• Local Scene: This is where Chiang Mai eats breakfast—tourists are a minority here.

History

The market has operated informally at the Chiang Mai Gate intersection for decades, following the Thai tradition of morning markets gathering near temple walls and city gates. It remains thoroughly local despite growing fame.

Visitor Tips

• Early start: Peak hours are 06:00–09:00; many stalls sell out by 10:00.
• Cheap eats: Most dishes cost 30–50 THB.
• Duration: 30–60 minutes.