📝 1. Overview
Just north of Chiang Mai’s Old City sits Chang Phuak, a gritty-charming neighborhood known for its legendary night market, historic temples, and casual vibes. It’s a hotspot for budget travelers, digital nomads, and locals alike. Whether you’re digging into a pork noodle bowl under neon lights or watching monks sweep temple courtyards at dawn, Chang Phuak delivers raw, real, and delicious Northern Thailand.
🌟 2. Highlights
🍜 Chang Phuak Night Market: Street food paradise with the famous “Cowgirl Hat Lady”
🛕 Wat Lok Moli: Ancient temple with peaceful, uncrowded charm
🎒 Budget-Friendly Hostels: Backpacker base with local access
🍚 Local Morning Markets: Traditional ingredients & Thai breakfasts
🚲 Easy Access to Old City: Just across the moat, perfect location
☀️ Sunrise Temple Walks: Less crowded, meditative atmosphere
🗺️ 3. Zones in Chang Phuak
| Zone | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Chang Phuak Gate | Night market, city wall, local traffic hub |
| Wat Lok Moli Area | Lanna-style temple, quiet courtyard, photography spot |
| Sri Phum Rd | Guesthouses, street cafés, scooter rentals |
| Khuang Singh Area | Local life, markets, and more space to breathe |
🎟️ 4. Tickets & Passes – Popular Attractions
| Attraction | Price (Adult) | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Wat Lok Moli | Free | 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Chang Phuak Night Market | Free Entry | 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM |
| Chang Phuak Morning Market | Free Entry | 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM |
| Scooter Rentals (Daily) | ~200–300 THB | Varies by vendor |
🟠 No ticketed attractions—come hungry and curious
💡 5. Tips
🌅 Come early morning or after dark—the area shines at these times
🍢 Eat at the cowgirl hat pork stall (Khao Kha Moo) for an iconic meal
🚲 Rent a bike or scooter—ideal for exploring nearby temples
📶 Some guesthouses have limited Wi-Fi—check ahead if remote working
🛕 Dress modestly for temples, even local ones
🍽️ 6. Must-Try Foods in Chang Phuak
🍖 Khao Kha Moo (Stewed Pork Leg) – From the famous hat-wearing auntie
🥩 Grilled Beef Skewers – Juicy, smoky, perfect late-night snack
🍜 Khao Soi with Crispy Noodles – Served by local family-run carts
🍚 Sticky Rice with Grilled Pork – Breakfast staple at morning market
🍧 Grass Jelly with Ice – Cooling dessert from local stalls
🏨 7. Recommended Hotels (Top 3 Picks)
🏨 Mercure Chiang Mai
→ Mid-range, spacious rooms, quiet yet close to action.
🛏️ Chang Phuak Hotel
→ Local charm, clean rooms, near night market.
🎒 9.5 Hotel Chiangmai
→ Cozy budget option, good for solo travelers & digital nomads.
🚗 8. Access
📍 From Major Airports
Chiang Mai Intl Airport (CNX) → Chang Phuak: ~15–20 min by taxi (~150 THB)
📍 Getting Around
🚲 Scooters and bikes for local moves
🚶 Walk to/from Old City in 10–15 min
🚖 Red songthaews pass by frequently—wave one down!
🌐 9. Contact / Info
🔗 Tourism Authority of Thailand – Chiang Mai
📞 Local Info: +66 53 248 604
📍 Info Spot: Chang Phuak Gate tourist map stand (across from market)
