What to Do at the Chillva Market?
We first visited Chillva Market on the way to Patong one evening, curious about the colourful shipping containers weโd seen from the road. As soon as we arrived, the mix of music, local food, and the buzz of people chatting made it clear why this market is such a favourite with locals. It has a younger, trendier atmosphere than many other markets in Phuket, with plenty of food stalls, small bars, handmade crafts, and fashionable clothes. We often see groups of Thai teenagers meeting friends, trying snacks, and browsing for something new to wear, all while enjoying the live music that plays most nights.
Chillva Market is one of the most popular night markets in Phuket, instantly recognisable for its colourful shipping containers and lively, youthful crowd. Located on the outskirts of Phuket Town, on the road to Patong, itโs a fun place to explore in the evening. The market is packed with local food stalls, small bars, handmade crafts, and trendy fashion shops.
Weโve been there many times, and itโs easy to see why itโs such a favourite with Thai teenagers and young adults. Friends gather to share snacks, shop for new clothes, and listen to live music under the warm night lights. Like other night markets in Thailand, Chillva is a mix of shopping, eating, and people-watching, with the added bonus of a more modern, creative style.
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 youโll see fewer fake brands than in other markets. That said, the watches looked questionable. If youโre 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 didnโt 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. Itโs 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 Chillvaโs 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. Itโs a novelty for many visitors, and you might be surprised at the taste. If insects arenโt for you, crocodile meat is another unusual option to try and talk about later.
The Bars
In two corners of the market, youโll 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 andย an instant rooftop bar!
Chillva Retro Area
When youโre 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. Itโs 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 โ 11 pm โ Monday to Saturday โ Sunday closed
Phone: 099 152 1919
Price: Free
Chillva Market Map
Get the directions on your phone:ย https://goo.gl/maps/ii9DTUXQt3Asc2w79