If you’re visiting Khao Lak, one of the top spots on your list should be the Bang Niang Night Market. Located conveniently near the Tsunami Memorial, this bustling market brings together a vibrant mix of street food, souvenirs, fashion stalls, and more. At Mark One Tailor, we believe in giving tourists honest and reliable information—so here’s what you really need to know before shopping at Bang Niang.
Market Hours and Best Time to Visit
The Bang Niang Night Market is open four days a week: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM. If you’re planning your visit, Monday and Saturday are the best days, as most of the stalls are open and the market is full of energy.
To beat the heat and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere, we recommend arriving around 6:30 PM or 7:00 PM. By then, the sun has dipped, the temperature is more comfortable, and the market really comes alive.
What’s for Sale?
Expect to find a wide variety of items, from ready-made clothes and accessories to “designer” handbags and watches. While the selection is impressive at first glance, many of these items are imitations or counterfeits. Sellers often promote their goods as “good copy” or even claim they are “original,” but it’s important to understand that these are not genuine branded products.
Beware of Tourist Pricing
One thing to be cautious about: tourist pricing. Some vendors charge prices significantly higher than what locals would pay—sometimes up to 10 times more. And because most of these shops don’t have websites or social media, it’s difficult to verify what a fair price should be.
Vendors often size you up to see how familiar you are with local pricing. If you’re new to Thailand, don’t be shy—bargaining is expected, though it can be tricky if you don’t know the real value of an item. Be patient, smile, and don’t be afraid to walk away if something feels too expensive.
Who’s Selling?
Another thing most tourists don’t realize: the majority of vendors selling imitation clothes and accessories are not Thai nationals. Many are from Burmese or Nepali backgrounds, and while some may look similar to Indian people, they are not. This is not unique to Khao Lak—it’s the same in Phuket, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Samui, and Pattaya. It’s quite rare to find a Thai-owned stall selling such items.
Understanding who runs these businesses can help visitors better connect with the local culture and support genuine Thai artisans and businesses whenever possible.
Honest Advice from Mark One Tailor
At Mark One Tailor, we take pride in offering not just high-quality tailoring but also truthful, helpful advice for tourists. We know how overwhelming it can be to navigate local markets, especially when prices and quality vary so widely.
So if you’re ever unsure where to shop, what to buy, or how much to pay—just ask us. We’re always happy to help travelers make smart, informed choices during their time in Khao Lak.
Come visit Mark One Tailor for trusted craftsmanship and honest guidance—because your trip should be memorable for all the right reasons.