You know that feeling when you step into Bangkok, and suddenly, everything feels like a shopping wonderland?
The malls are massive, the markets are endless, and the prices make you feel like you’ve hit the jackpot. If you’re wondering about the best time to visit Bangkok, November to February offers the most pleasant weather for shopping.
Whether it’s your first trip or your tenth, one thing’s for sure: you cannot leave Bangkok empty-handed.
For us Singaporeans, Bangkok is where you go to shop like there’s no tomorrow.
We’re talking about premium Thai silk that feels luxurious but is still breathable for our weather, handmade souvenirs that actually mean something, and snacks so addictive you’ll regret not buying more.
The best part? It’s all cheaper than what you’d pay back home.
So, before you go into "whack everything and figure it out later" mode, let’s follow this Bangkok shopping guide and shop smart. This guide is here to help you pick out the absolute best souvenirs from Bangkok and must-buy items that are worth every baht.
Ready? Let’s go.
Thai Silk
You know how Singaporeans love a good lightweight, breathable fabric? Thai silk is exactly that but with an extra touch of luxury.
Unlike the mass-produced silk-blend scarves you find in regular stores, authentic Thai silk has a distinct texture, a natural sheen that shifts under the light, and vibrant colours that don’t fade easily.
It’s one of those souvenirs that feels special yet practical. A beautiful silk scarf can elevate any outfit, a set of silk cushion covers can add a touch of elegance to your home, and a silk tie makes a classy gift for dad or your boss. If you take care of it properly, it lasts for years, unlike fast fashion pieces that lose their charm after a few washes.
Of course, real Thai silk isn’t cheap, but it’s worth it.
A premium silk scarf from Jim Thompson will set you back around ฿2,500 to ฿5,000 (S$95 to S$190), while handmade silk shawls at Chatuchak go for around ฿800 to ฿1,500 (S$30 to S$55).
If you’re after something small, silk pouches or keychains from MBK Center can be found for as low as ฿200 (S$8).
Where to shop in Bangkok for authentic Thai silk
Jim Thompson House & Official Stores
If you want top-tier quality and authenticity, Jim Thompson is the go-to brand. Yes, it’s expensive, but the craftsmanship is unmatched. Perfect if you’re looking for a timeless gift for your family or a special keepsake.
There are multiple outlets in Bangkok, but the Jim Thompson House Museum near Siam is worth a visit to see the legacy behind the brand.
📍Location: 6 Soi Kasem San 2, Khwaeng Wang Mai, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand
Chatuchak Weekend Market, Section 24
For something more affordable yet still authentic, head to Section 24 at Chatuchak Market. Vendors here sell handwoven silk scarves, cushion covers, and even bolts of fabric if you want to make your own outfits.
The prices are way lower than Jim Thompson, and you can even try bargaining if you’re buying in bulk.
📍Location: 587, 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
MBK Center, 2nd Floor
If you’re short on time but still want a silk souvenir, MBK has plenty of stalls selling silk pouches, coin purses, and scarves. It’s also easily accessible via National Stadium BTS, so do check the Bangkok BTS map for the fastest route.
While they may not always be 100 percent pure silk, they’re still affordable, pretty, and make great last-minute gifts.
📍Location: 444 Phaya Thai Rd, Wang Mai, Subdistrict, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Bonus Tip: How to Tell If It’s Real Silk
If you’re paying a premium, you want the real deal. Here’s how to check:
- Feel it. Authentic Thai silk is slightly rough due to its natural fibres, while fake silk feels unnaturally smooth.
- Look at the shine. Real silk changes colour at different angles under the light, while synthetic silk looks flat.
- Check the weave. Since Thai silk is handwoven, it has small imperfections, unlike factory-made polyester blends.
A lot of shops mix real silk with synthetic materials, so if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Handmade and Personalised Souvenirs: Unique Gifts from Thailand
If you’re the kind of person who thinks keychains and fridge magnets are a little too meh as souvenirs, Bangkok has some seriously cool handmade and personalized gifts that feel way more special.
Instead of grabbing another generic trinket from a tourist stall, why not bring home something that’s actually crafted by local artists or customized just for you?
Think hand-painted tote bags, engraved wooden keychains, and even made-to-order leather goods. These aren’t just pretty souvenirs; they’re conversation starters and keepsakes with a personal touch.
If you love unique gifts from Thailand, this is one category you don’t want to skip.
A custom tote bag with your pet’s portrait? About ฿390 to ฿490 (S$15 to S$20). A wooden keychain with your name or a Thai-inspired design? Around ฿150 to ฿300 (S$6 to S$12). Handmade leather wallets?
Depending on the craftsmanship, they start from ฿1,000 (S$40). The best part? Many of these items are made on the spot, so you can watch them being crafted before your eyes.
Where to shop in Bangkok for handmade and personalized souvenirs
Palladium World Shopping Mall (Outside McDonald’s Area)
If you love quirky, personalized gifts, there’s a small stall just outside the McDonald’s at Palladium Mall where a couple sells engraved wooden keychains.
You can request your name, a short phrase, or even a little sketch to be carved into the wood, and they’ll have it ready within an hour. It’s a fun and unique way to bring home a piece of Thailand.
📍Location: 555 Ratchaprarop Rd, Makkasan, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
JODD FAIRS DanNeramit
This is where I found the cutest stall selling hand-painted tote bags, and if you’re a pet lover, you’ll love this. The artist will paint a custom portrait of your dog, cat, or even your favourite cartoon character onto a tote bag.
Prices start at ฿390 (S$15), and it takes about 40 minutes to complete, so you can place your order, explore the night market, and pick it up later. Bonus? The artwork is waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about it fading.
📍Location: 15 Rama IX Rd, Huai Khwang, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10310, Thailand
Chatuchak Weekend Market, Handmade Section
For hand-stitched leather wallets, custom-engraved metal jewellery, and indie artist prints, Chatuchak’s handmade section is a treasure trove.
It’s a great place to buy unique souvenirs that support local artists rather than big-name brands. If you’re looking for a personalized bracelet or a leather key holder, this is the place to get it.
📍Location: 587, 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
Thai Snacks and Local Treats
Let’s be real, when Singaporeans go overseas, half the luggage space is reserved for food. And if there’s one place that deserves a dedicated snack haul, it’s Bangkok.
Forget overpriced duty-free souvenirs, this is where you can stock up on flavoured seaweed, Thai milk tea sachets, crispy pork snacks, and mango sticky rice chips at a fraction of the price.
Thai snacks hit differently because they’re a mix of sweet, savoury, and spicy flavours that you don’t always find back home.
Some, like Lays’ Thai Basil Chicken flavour or spicy squid chips, are fun and addictive. Others, like durian chips or tamarind candy, are more of an acquired taste but make great souvenirs for the adventurous foodie in your life.
If you love the kind of snacks that make people go "Wah, where did you buy this?", Bangkok is your paradise.
Prices are super affordable too. A big bag of Tao Kae Noi crispy seaweed is around ฿30 to ฿60 (S$1.20 to S$2.40). A pack of dried mango or jackfruit chips goes for ฿100 to ฿250 (S$4 to S$10). Even premium Thai milk tea mix costs only ฿100 to ฿200 (S$4 to S$8) per box. The only problem? You’ll wish you had bought more.
Must-Try Thai Snacks
Thai Milk Tea & Coffee Mixes
If you’re a fan of Cha Tra Mue’s Thai milk tea, you can bring home the instant mix version. Just add hot water or milk, and you’ve got yourself an authentic, creamy, and fragrant cup of Thai tea without needing to queue at the stall.
They also sell instant Thai iced coffee, which is strong, sweet, and perfect for kopi lovers.
Tao Kae Noi Crispy Seaweed
If you love Irvin salted egg fish skin, Tao Kae Noi seaweed snacks will be right up your alley. Super crispy and packed with umami, these come in flavours like spicy, wasabi, and tom yum.
They’re sold everywhere in Bangkok, but you’ll get the best deals at Big C or Chatuchak.
Lays Thailand-Exclusive Flavors
You know how Lays in Singapore has standard flavours like BBQ and Sour Cream? In Thailand, they go all out. Hot Chili Squid, Thai Basil Chicken, and even Salted Egg are just a few of the crazy flavours you’ll find. They’re seriously addictive, and once you start snacking, you’ll regret not buying more.
Where to Buy Thai Snacks in Bangkok
ICONSIAM Indoor Floating Market
If you want beautifully packaged, artisanal Thai snacks, ICONSIAM’s indoor floating market is perfect. You’ll find handmade coconut crisps, Thai tea-flavoured biscuits, and mango sticky rice snacks, all packed elegantly, making them great for gifts.
📍Location: 299 Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San, Bangkok 10600, Thailand
Chatuchak Weekend Market, Section 22
For bulk-buying dried fruits, flavoured cashew nuts, and Thai candies, Section 22 at Chatuchak is a must-visit. If you’re the kind who stocks up on snacks at Bugis Street, this is the Bangkok version, but with way more variety and lower prices.
📍Location: 587, 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
Chinatown (Yaowarat Road)
For traditional Thai-Chinese snacks, Chinatown is the best place to find roasted chestnuts, herbal teas, durian-flavored candies, and crispy pork floss rolls. If you’re shopping for older family members or anyone who loves traditional flavours, this is the spot.
📍Location: Yaowarat Road Samphanthawong, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100 Thailand.
Big C Supermarket (Opposite CentralWorld)
If you want everything in one go, Big C is the easiest and cheapest place to stock up. You’ll find Lays’ exclusive Thai flavours, crispy seaweed, instant Thai milk tea, and coconut chips at prices lower than convenience stores or airport duty-free.
📍Location: 97/11 Ratchadamri Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Traditional Thai Medicine and Balms
If you’ve ever had a Thai massage, you know that deep heat, herbal aromas, and muscle-relaxing balms are all part of the experience.
But what if you could bring that relief home?
Traditional Thai medicine and balms are some of the most underrated souvenirs, and once you start using them, you’ll wonder why you didn’t buy more.
Unlike the usual Tiger Balm or salonpas patches you find in Singapore, Thailand has its own range of powerful herbal remedies that locals swear by. Some have been around for centuries, passed down through generations, and are used daily for everything from muscle aches to dizziness.
Whether it’s the cooling relief of a Poy Sian inhaler, the deep-heat of White Monkey Holding Peach Balm, or the herbal goodness of Ya Dom oils, these Thai remedies are lifesavers, especially if you’re always on the go.
And they’re cheap.
A Poy Sian inhaler costs about ฿20 to ฿40 (S$1 to S$2). A jar of White Monkey balm? Around ฿100 to ฿300 (S$4 to S$12). Even herbal compress balls used in Thai massages are only ฿200 to ฿500 (S$8 to S$20) per set. Stocking up on these is a must, whether for yourself or as practical gifts for family and friends.
Must-Buy Thai Traditional Medicines and Balms
Poy Sian Nasal Inhalers
If you’ve ever been stuck on an MRT with a headache or feeling dizzy from the heat, you’ll love these. This tiny two-in-one menthol and eucalyptus inhaler instantly clears your nose and refreshes your senses. Almost every Thai person carries one, and once you start using it, you’ll understand why.
White Monkey Holding Peach Balm
This is like Tiger Balm but stronger and spicier. It’s amazing for sore muscles, joint pain, and even insect bites. The scent is uniquely Thai, with a blend of camphor, menthol, and herbal extracts. Great if you love a good deep-heat balm that actually works.
Siang Pure Oil & Green Balm (Ya Mong)
Siang Pure Oil is that little red bottle of magic you see in Thai households. It’s a herbal oil used for dizziness, headaches, or even stomach discomfort. Green Balm, on the other hand, is perfect for mosquito bites, rashes, and minor burns. If you have a travel pouch for first aid, these should be inside.
Thai Herbal Compress Balls
If you’ve ever had a Thai massage where they press warm herbal compresses on your body, this is what they use. These are cloth-wrapped bundles filled with lemongrass, turmeric, and other healing herbs, which release tension and improve circulation when steamed and applied to sore muscles. Great for home spa days.
Where to Buy Traditional Thai Medicine and Balms in Bangkok
Boots & Watsons (Multiple Locations in Malls)
For branded balms and oils like Siang Pure, Tiger Balm, and Poy Sian inhalers, Watsons and Boots are the easiest places to shop. Prices are lower than in Singapore, and they sometimes have bundle deals.
📍Location: Most shopping malls
Chatuchak Weekend Market (Herbal Section, Section 7)
For handmade herbal compress balls, lemongrass balms, and locally made healing oils, this is the place to explore. Vendors here sell traditional remedies in small batches, and you can sometimes watch them being made fresh.
📍Location: 587, 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
Big C Supermarket (Opposite CentralWorld)
If you want bulk packs of Poy Sian inhalers, Siang Pure oil, and herbal patches, Big C has them at supermarket prices. It’s the best place to stock up before flying home.
📍Location: 97/11 Ratchadamri Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Chinatown (Yaowarat Road)
For authentic Thai herbal medicines, old-school remedies, and strong balms used by locals, Chinatown is worth visiting. Some small pharmacies here sell unique, hard-to-find herbal treatments that aren’t available in malls.
📍Location: Yaowarat Road Samphanthawong, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100 Thailand.
Premium Bird’s Nest
You know how Singaporeans love stocking up on wellness products when travelling? If there’s one premium health and beauty gift worth bringing back from Bangkok, it’s bird’s nest.
Unlike snacks that get finished in days, bird’s nest is a long-term wellness investment. Enjoying a warm bowl of bird's nest soup is not just about savouring its subtle sweetness; it's about partaking in a cultural experience cherished for generations.
Whether you're treating yourself or seeking a unique gift, this delicacy offers a taste of tradition and wellness.
Prices for bird's nest soup in Chinatown vary based on quality and preparation. You can find a basic bowl starting at around ฿200 (approximately S$8), with premium versions reaching up to ฿1,500 (approximately S$60).
For those interested in purchasing dried bird's nest to prepare at home, reputable shops offer authentic products, with prices reflecting the grade and purity of the nests.
Where to Buy Bird's Nest in Bangkok
Bangkok's Chinatown, known locally as Yaowarat, is the epicentre for authentic bird's nest delicacies. Here are some notable establishments:
Nam Sing Bird's Nest & Shark Fin
A well-established restaurant on Yaowarat Road, Nam Sing offers a range of bird's nest soups, starting from ฿300. While some patrons note that portions can be modest, the quality remains commendable.
📍Location: 39-47 Soi Texas, Bangkok 10100 Thailand
Burapa Bird's Nest
Situated near Hotel Royal Bangkok Chinatown, Burapa provides various bird's nest options, with prices beginning at ฿200.
The establishment is noted for its traditional Chinese decor and a wide selection of bird's nest products.
📍Location: 66 Plaeng Nam Rd, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100, Thailand
Scala Shark's Fin Restaurant
Located at the entrance of Chinatown, Scala is renowned for its fresh bird's nest dishes, with prices starting from ฿200. The restaurant also offers shark fin soup and other Chinese delicacies.
📍Location: Siam Square One, Bangkok 10240 Thailand
Pro Tip: How to Ensure Authenticity
When purchasing bird's nest products, especially dried nests for home preparation, it's essential to ensure authenticity:
- Source: Buy from reputable shops in Chinatown known for genuine products.
- Appearance: Authentic bird's nests have a natural, off-white colour with a fibrous texture.
- Price: If the price seems too good to be true, it likely is. Quality bird's nests are priced higher due to their meticulous harvesting and cleaning processes.
Thai Antiques and Handicrafts
If you’ve ever admired the rattan furniture at Haji Lane or the Peranakan ceramics in Katong, Thai handicrafts offer that same blend of artistry and cultural depth. The best part is that many of these items are functional too. A lacquerware bowl is not just for display. A handwoven basket can be used for storage. Even a traditional Thai silk tapestry can be framed as art.
So if you’re the kind of person who finds joy in decorating your home with pieces that actually mean something, Bangkok is a goldmine for unique antiques and handicrafts. Unlike mass-produced souvenirs, these are items that carry history, artistry, and a sense of place.
Whether it’s a hand-carved wooden Buddha, a delicate ceramic bowl, or a beautifully woven Thai tapestry, these are souvenirs that feel personal and timeless.
There’s something about Thai craftsmanship that makes it stand out. The details are intricate, the materials are natural, and the skills behind each piece have been passed down for generations.
Prices depend on what you’re looking for.
A small hand-carved wooden elephant can go for ฿300 to ฿800 (S$12 to S$30) while a silk wall tapestry might set you back ฿2,000 to ฿5,000 (S$80 to S$200). If you’re serious about antiques, expect to pay S$400 and above for rare or older pieces.
Where to Buy Thai Antiques and Handicrafts in Bangkok
Chatuchak Weekend Market (Sections 1 and 26)
This is hands down one of the best places to hunt for handmade wooden carvings, woven baskets, ceramic bowls, and Thai-inspired home decor.
Section 1 has beautiful hand-carved statues and lacquerware, while Section 26 is great for artisan-made ceramics and textiles. If you love finding hidden gems at a bargain, this is where you want to be.
📍Location: 587, 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC)
If your taste leans towards modern artisan pieces, this is a great spot to check out. The shops here sell locally designed home decor, art prints, and handcrafted accessories that blend traditional Thai techniques with a contemporary touch. Think of it like a boutique version of Singapore’s Gillman Barracks, but with a Thai twist.
📍Location: 939 Rama I Rd, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Tha Maharaj Riverside Market
Set by the Chao Phraya River, this place has a mix of traditional and modern Thai handicrafts, Buddhist artifacts, and vintage-style home decor.
If you’re looking for something inspired by Thailand’s temple culture, you’ll find bells, prayer beads, and handcrafted Buddha statues here. It’s a quieter and more scenic shopping experience compared to the crowded markets.
📍Location: 1/11 Trok Sathira Borom Maha Wang Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand
River City Bangkok (For Serious Antique Collectors)
This is where you go if you are looking for authentic Thai antiques. It’s one of Bangkok’s most reputable antique hubs, filled with galleries specializing in vintage Buddha statues, old ceramics, and rare Southeast Asian artifacts.
Prices here are significantly higher, but if you’re serious about collecting, this is where you’ll find museum-quality pieces.
📍Location: Suite 418-420, 4th FL., RiverCity Bangkok, Yotha Rd, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100, Thailand
Bangkok Shopping Guide: Tips to Shop Like a Pro
- Bargain smartly. Markets like Chatuchak and JODD FAIRS expect you to negotiate but keep it polite and friendly. A smile goes a long way.
- Check for authenticity. Real Thai silk, antiques, and handmade crafts have telltale signs. When in doubt, buy from reputable sellers.
- Stock up on consumables. Snacks, balms, and tea mixes are lightweight, cheap, and always in demand when you return.
- Compare prices. Some tourist-heavy areas mark up prices, so check out local markets or supermarkets for better deals.
- Bring extra luggage space. Trust me , you’ll need it.
Bring Home the Best of Bangkok
If you’ve ever come back from Bangkok with a suitcase full of Tao Kae Noi seaweed, Chatuchak knick-knacks, and maybe one too many pairs of elephant pants, you’ll know exactly what I mean.
But this time, let’s shop smarter and bring home the best of the best.
Whether you’re looking for a classy gift, a personal keepsake, or the best things to bring back from Bangkok, this guide will help you pick the must-buy items that are actually worth it.
Bangkok isn’t just a place to shop. it’s a place where every purchase feels like a discovery. So go ahead, explore, bargain, and shop your heart out. The only regret you’ll have is not bringing a bigger suitcase.