The Amulet Market in Bangkok, Thailand, is a century old and the world’s largest amulet market (Kreaung Rang in Thai). Other superstitious items with various shapes and meanings can be found. The market is located near Wat Mahathat, between the Chao Phraya River and Maha Rat Road, and in the vicinity of the Grand Palace. The Bangkok Amulet Market has attracted a large crowd and is one of the most unique market experiences you can have in your lifetime. Aside from amulets, this market also sells jewelry, souvenirs, talismans, traditional medicine, and Buddha statues of various sizes.
The merchants do not bother anyone to buy anything but rather guide you to purchase the suitable amulet for your purpose. You can also get a personalized talisman for luck, goodwill, health, wealth, etc. So if you are fascinated by Hindu and Buddhist cultures, Bangkok’s Amulet Market is for you.
What to Buy at Amulet Market in Bangkok
Amulet Market is best known for its myriad amulet options. However, there are some famous talismans that you can buy for any reason:
Phra Kreaung – This is the most common amulet with the face of a Buddha or a Buddhist monk. It is used for protection and ranges from THB 20 to THB 20,000,000 (IR 43 to INR 43,000).
Palad Khik: This is a penis-shaped amulet worn around the waist by men.
They are known for increasing charm and luck and preventing accidents. It may cost 20 THB.
Kuman Thong – It is a small statue of a little boy in a traditional Thai costume. Kuman Thong means Golden Boy. He said if Kuman Thong stays well nourished, it can bring good luck and fortune. It costs about 400 THB.
Muntjak Antlers: These are animal parts highly revered by the Thai people. Muntjac antlers are known to bring financial prosperity. It can cost around 2000 THB. Jewelry and souvenir shops, You can get Khon as a souvenir. It is a mask that has been carefully crafted by hand.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit the amulet market is on Saturdays and Sundays. The market is at its best these days as all the shops are open.
Visitors Tips:
- Since the Amulet Market is roadside, remember to wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
- Bring cash, as most shops do not accept card payments.
- If you are interested in purchasing amulets, thoroughly research the type and purpose of the amulet you wish to purchase.
- Please note that Buddhist paraphernalia cannot be exported to Thailand. So be sure to follow the Thai rules.
Know before you go:
There are no shamans in the amulet market to help with the divination process. It is up to each individual to dig to find which treasure suits their need. This makes a people-watching trip to the amulet market simply one of the most rewarding and mystical experiences, even if you don’t want to take home something small with magical potential yourself. Spells can cost as little as 5 baht (the same price as a trip to some public baths) and up to hundreds of baht. Prices are rarely displayed, which means haggling or haggling is required.
While in the area, keep an eye out for the nearby back streets (towards the water). A few heavy rings and more pendants might catch your eye, and there are enough cheap food stalls to feed the staff working in the immediate area.
How To Reach Amulet Market
The Amulet Market is located between the Chao Phraya River and the Maha Rat Road, west of Wat Mahathat.
The market is served by ferry from Tha Maharaj River, Chang Pier and Phra Chan Tai Pier. Arrive at BTS National Stadium and take exit two at street level. Then make a U-turn and walk 20 meters to the bus stop. Get on bus 47, which takes 20-30 minutes and get off when you see the Grand Palace or Sanam Luang (a big park). You will find a side road going left between the two, from where you need to go down about 400 meters and turn right. Here you can see the start of the amulet market.
