Bringing back souvenirs from a trip is a great way to reminisce about your travels and share your experiences with loved ones. Thailand, with its vibrant markets and rich culture, offers a wide range of unique and authentic items that make perfect souvenirs. From intricately crafted handicrafts to delicious local treats, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a special memento or a gift, Thailand’s markets have got you covered. So if you are confused as to what to bring from Thailand, here’s a guide on the best things to buy in Thailand curated just for you by unstumbled!
Best Things To Buy In Thailand: Souvenirs
Traditional Thai Handicrafts
Thailand is renowned for its intricate traditional handicrafts that showcase its rich culture. Popular items include:
Benjarong Ceramics: These are exquisite, multi-colored porcelain pieces once reserved for Thai royalty. They feature geometric and floral designs and can be found in specialty shops and local markets, especially around Chiang Mai and Ban Don Kai Dee village.
- Wooden Carvings: Beautifully hand-carved wood items such as Buddha statues, animal figures, and home decor pieces are widely available in markets like Chatuchak and artisan villages.
- Khon Theatre Masks: These artistic masks are symbolic of Thai classical dance drama and make unique collectible souvenirs.
- Soap Carvings: Floral and animal-shaped soap carvings are a charming, small gift option.
Thai Silk Products
Authentic Thai silk is among the most prized souvenirs. High-quality silk scarves, shirts, cushion covers, and wallets are handwoven from silk threads spun by silkworms fed mulberry leaves. Brands like Jim Thompson are famous for genuine Thai silk. Thai silk products are available at Bangkok Airport, Chinatown (Yaowarat), and numerous boutiques. While authentic Thai silk can be pricey, it is well worth the investment. The starting price for authentic Thai silk souvenirs is around 800 Thai Baht ( INR1,850) for silk scarves. High-quality silk fabric costs about 3,000 Thai Baht ( INR7,000) per meter, while premium silk garments start at 5,000 Thai Baht (INR11,600).
Elephant-Themed Items
Elephants hold symbolic importance in Thailand, making elephant-themed souvenirs widely popular. Items include elephant-print pants known for comfort and vibrant designs, figurines, keychains, and textiles. Elephant pants are especially popular as easy-to-wear, affordable gifts and can be found cheaply in markets across Bangkok.
Spa and Herbal Products
Thailand’s traditional wellness products are fantastic gifts and souvenirs. These products evoke the Thai spa experience and often come in easy-to-pack sizes.
- Herbal balms like Tiger Balm and Ya Dom inhalers help with muscle pain and respiratory relief.
- Coconut oil products and natural spa items like massage oils and essential oils are found in markets and specialty stores.
Best Things To Buy In Thailand: Snacks
Snacks to Bring Home
- Dried Fruits such as dried mango, tamarind, and coconut chips are delicious and travel well.
- Instant Thai Noodles, like the famous MAMA brand, offer iconic flavors and are easy to pack.
- Thai Seaweed Snacks (e.g., Tao Kae Noi) provide a tasty, crunchy treat.
- Thai Tea Mix: The ChaTraMue brand Thai iced tea mix is a beloved souvenir for tea lovers.
- Thai Spices and Cooking Pastes: Essential spices like lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and curry pastes allow recreating authentic Thai dishes at home.
Where to Buy Food Souvenirs
Supermarkets, street markets, and convenience stores such as 7-Eleven all stock these popular edible items, making them convenient purchases.
Best Places to Shop in Thailand
- Chatuchak Weekend Market (Bangkok): One of the largest markets offering everything from handicrafts, clothes (including elephant pants), souvenirs, and food products.
- Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and Local Markets: Great for handicrafts, silk, and ceramics.
- Phuket Markets and Specialty Shops: Known for teak wood crafts, seafood snacks, and unique local gifts.
- Bangkok Airport Duty-Free: Offers authentic Thai silk, luxury spa products, and premium Thai snacks for hassle-free shopping before departure.
Tips On Buying Souvenirs in Thailand
- Always bargain politely in markets to get the best prices.
- Buy Thai silk and ceramics from reputable shops to ensure authenticity.
- Choose lightweight and easy-to-pack items like scarves and herbal balms.
- Shop at iconic markets like Chatuchak for diverse and unique souvenirs.
- Taste samples before purchasing food souvenirs to suit your preference.
- Avoid overly touristy shops for more unique and locally made gifts.
- Check for quality and certification when buying precious jewelry or silver items.
- Plan shopping trips on weekends for markets like Chatuchak that open only then.
- Use airport duty-free stores for convenient last-minute authentic Thai products.
Summing Up
When you visit Thailand, make sure you don’t leave without bringing back some special memories and unique souvenirs that reflect the country’s rich culture and heritage.
