What to Buy: Chiang Mai is renowned for handcrafted silk, celadon pottery, wooden carvings, cotton textiles, hill tribe handicrafts, and umbrellas. Jewelry, spices, and dried fruits are also excellent souvenirs at reasonable prices.
Shopping Venues: Night Bazaar (4 PM-midnight) features vendor stalls; Walking Streets (Sat/Sun) showcase artisan goods; Artisan workshops offer direct purchases supporting craftspeople; Traditional markets (Warorot, Ton Payom) sell everything from fresh goods to handicrafts.
Bargaining Tips: Bargaining is customary at markets and stalls but not in malls or restaurants. Start offers at 60-70% of asking price, negotiate respectfully, and accept the first agreed price. Small cash transactions work best. Weekend Walking Streets prices are fixed.
Shipping: Many shops offer international shipping. Verify reliability and insurance. Keep receipts for customs at departure.