Rating: 3.6/5 (8 votes)

Open Days: Saturdays only

Opening Hours: Generally 16:00 – 23:00

 

Wua Lai Walking Street is another major walking street in Chiang Mai with a very clear identity of its own. It is not simply a night market for casual strolling, but a space where trade, handicrafts, and food are deeply rooted in Lanna culture—especially traditional Lanna silverware, which has long been the heart of this neighborhood.

 

Every Saturday evening, Wua Lai Road is closed to traffic and transformed from a regular street into a pedestrian route stretching over 3 kilometers. The street fills with shops, food stalls, and visitors of all ages. The atmosphere is lively yet unhurried, allowing time to browse, taste local food, and chat with vendors—most of whom are genuine members of the local community.

 

The walking street begins near Chiang Mai Gate, the southern gate of the Old City moat. From the outer road that circles the moat, there is a diagonal left turn leading into Wua Lai Road. This route has become the main axis of the Saturday walking street and serves as a gateway into one of Chiang Mai’s oldest silver-making communities.

 

Looking back into history, the Wua Lai community has been known for centuries as a center of silver production that helped build Chiang Mai’s reputation. The craftsmanship of hammering, repoussé, and engraving silver was passed down from generation to generation. The sound of hammers striking silver once defined the neighborhood. However, as society has changed, much of this traditional craft has grown quieter, with younger generations turning to other occupations, placing this cultural identity at risk of fading away.

 

The emergence of Wua Lai Walking Street is therefore more than a tourism activity. It represents a community-driven effort to preserve cultural roots. The street provides a platform for silversmiths and artisans to present their work directly to the public, creating real income while safeguarding Lanna craftsmanship in a form that is still alive and evolving.

 

The products sold along Wua Lai Walking Street range from Lanna silver jewelry and handmade crafts to clothing, household items, and a wide variety of food. Visitors can enjoy both small snacks for casual tasting and full meals that are satisfying enough to replace dinner. What stands out is the strong community atmosphere—vendors do not rush sales or push volume, but instead emphasize the identity and story behind what they create.

 

Another essential charm is the Lanna cultural performance stage, where rotating shows take place throughout the evening. These include traditional music, dance, and contemporary performances infused with local character. The sound of music brings life to the entire street and turns a simple market walk into a deeper cultural experience.

 

Getting There If you are staying within the Old City moat area, Wua Lai Walking Street is easily accessible on foot. Alternatively, you can take a red songthaew, Grab, or a taxi. It is recommended to get dropped off near Chiang Mai Gate and walk in, as some roads are closed on Saturday nights and driving close to the area can be inconvenient.

 

 

A: It is open on Saturdays only, from the late afternoon until night.

 

A: Wua Lai focuses more on community atmosphere and traditional Lanna silver craftsmanship, while Tha Phae Walking Street is wider and more tourism-oriented with greater variety.

 

A: Visiting between 17:00 and 19:00 is recommended, as most stalls are set up and the crowd is still comfortable.

 

A: Generally yes, but it’s advisable to bring an umbrella or raincoat and walk carefully, as the ground may be slippery.