Bargain for clothing, jewelry, leather goods and souvenirs at this animated market set amid one of Bangkok’s most notorious nightlife districts.
Experience a curious blend of open-air market stalls, feverish nightlife and risqué Bangkok culture at Patpong Night Market. From early in the evening, hordes of vendors set up stalls and prepare to bargain enthusiastically with locals and tourists alike. Meanwhile, cabaret bars and nightclubs entice visitors with bright neon lights and salacious entertainment.
Patpong Night Market rose to fame in the 1970s, when it served as an entertainment district for American soldiers during the Vietnam War. Today, it attracts a mix of shopping lovers and inquisitive tourists, who come to witness an infamous aspect of the city’s culture.
Running through the heart of the market’s two streets are innumerable stalls packed floor-to-ceiling with goods geared toward tourists. Shop for handicrafts, including candles, soaps and necklaces. Browse for soccer jerseys, branded T-shirts and Thai boxing apparel, leather bags, watches and sunglasses, among other items. Much of what is on offer is counterfeit so check the quality before purchasing. Vendors have a habit of quoting outrageous prices so be prepared to bargain hard.
Cabaret bars, nightclubs and karaoke venues line the market’s streets, punctuating the air with flickering neon lights and blaring music. Note how some bars take their names from descriptive body parts. Watch as pushy touts try to lure often-unsuspecting visitors with the offer of cheap drinks and illicit shows. Peak inside the windows to see a slice of Bangkok’s popular yet bizarre nightlife scene.
Situated in the Si Lom neighborhood, Patpong Night Market is easily accessible via public transport such as the metro and sky train. The closest metro station is Silom MRT while the nearest sky train station is Sala Daeng BTS. The market is about a 20-minute taxi ride from tourist areas such as Chinatown and Khao San Road.
The market is open daily and stalls generally open for business around sunset. The bars and nightclubs stay open until the early hours. Consider arriving in the afternoon and enjoy a moment of tranquility at nearby Lumphini Park.
