What to Know Before You Go
Chillva Market is one of the most popular night markets in Phuket, easy to spot with its colourful shipping containers and young, local crowd. I first stopped here on the way to Patong, curious about the stacked containers I’d seen from the road. The mix of live music, local food, and groups of Thai teenagers chatting and shopping made it clear why this place is so popular.
Quick Summary
Unlike the bigger Naka Weekend Market or the touristy Sunday Walking Street, Chillva has a trendier, more creative feel. Most of the clothes and accessories are locally made, not fake brands. The food stalls sell proper Thai street food, from grilled seafood to mango sticky rice. There are even small bars built inside the containers, some with rooftop seating. It’s open Monday to Saturday from 5 pm, and entry is free. If you want to see where young Phuket locals hang out, this is the place.
Video of Chillva Market
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What to Buy at Chillva Market?
Chillva has a young, creative atmosphere. Many of the items on sale are locally made, so you’ll see fewer fake brands than in other markets. That said, the watches looked questionable. If you’re looking for knock-offs, the Naka Weekend Market is a better choice.
Clothing, jewellery, sports shoes, and quirky accessories will catch your eye, along with plenty of gadgets you didn’t know you wanted. Prices are fair, and while bargaining is possible, try not to bargain as hard as you would in the streets or bazaars of Patong or Kata. It’s worth remembering that many sellers are young people earning extra income for fun or to help with their studies.
What to Eat at Chillva Market
A big part of Chillva’s charm is the food. Stalls offer everything from grilled seafood and fried chicken with crispy skin to skewered meatballs and spicy sausages. For dessert, there are banana pancakes, mango sticky rice, and a wide choice of fresh tropical fruit.
For something more adventurous, you can try Fried insects: grasshoppers, crickets, silkworms, and even plump silk pupae. It’s a novelty for many visitors, and you might be surprised at the taste. If insects aren’t for you, crocodile meat is another unusual option to try and talk about later.
The Bars
In two corners of the market, you’ll find small bars and restaurants built inside converted shipping containers. This style has become popular in Thailand for its creative look and practical setup. By stacking two containers, some bars even have an upstairs seating area with a good view over the market and an instant rooftop bar!
Chillva Retro Area
When you’re ready for a quieter space, head to the Chillva Retro area at the back. Here, tables are set up in a more relaxed layout, making it a nice spot to sit with a drink or snack after walking around. It’s a good place to rest your feet and watch the market from a distance before heading back into the crowd.
More Photos of Chillva Market
Market Street View
Chillva Market Info
Location: Phuket Town
Address: 141/2 Yaowarat Road, Phuket 83000
Hours: 5 pm – 11 pm – Monday to Saturday – Sunday closed
Phone: 099 152 1919
Price: Free
Chillva Market Map
Get the directions on your phone: https://goo.gl/maps/ii9DTUXQt3Asc2w79
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