Key Takeaways
- Popular things to buy in Phuket include elephant pants, Muay Thai shorts, batik and silk, spa products, and dried tropical fruits.
- Local markets such as Naka Weekend Market and Chillva Market offer the most affordable Phuket souvenirs.
- Malls like Jungceylon and Central Phuket provide air-conditioned comfort with both local crafts and international brands.
- The Bazaar at Andamanda Phuket lets you shop for souvenirs from Phuket while enjoying a day at the water park.
Table of Content
- What to Buy in Phuket: Top Souvenirs to Bring Home
- Elephant Pants or Fisherman’s Pants
- Muay Thai Shorts
- Phuket-Themed T-Shirts and Totes
- Accessories, Magnets & Keychains
- Batik and Silk Products
- Spa and Aromatherapy Products
- Dried Fruits, Nuts & Spices
- Where to Shop for Souvenirs in Phuket
- Chillva Market In Phuket Town
- Phuket Walking Street
- Naka Weekend Market
- Banzaan Market
- Karon Temple Market
- Malin Plaza Patong
- Kata Night Market
- Where to Buy Souvenirs in Malls
- Jungceylon
- Central Phuket
- The Bazaar at Andamanda Phuket
- FAQs
The island is full of affordable, memorable gifts, from colorful elephant pants and handcrafted batik to dried tropical fruits and aromatherapy products. You will find the best Phuket souvenirs in the island's lively local markets, while air-conditioned malls offer a comfortable alternative with both local crafts and international brands. Whether you are shopping for friends, family, or yourself, here are the top things to buy in Phuket and the best places to find them.
What to Buy in Phuket: Top Souvenirs to Bring Home
Shopping in local markets is part of the experience when you visit Thailand, and many items tell a story of the island. Here are some of the best souvenirs to look out for.
Elephant Pants or Fisherman’s Pants
As a foreigner in Phuket, the elephant pants which are also known as fisherman’s pants, are one item you need to have in your wardrobe. They’re really comfortable and lightweight making them perfect for traveling. With their colorful designs and traditional Thai patterns, often featuring elephants, they capture the spirit of Thailand. These pants also make great gifts for those back home as well.
Muay Thai Shorts
Phuket is known for its Muay Thai training camps, so why not take a piece of this sport home with you? These shorts are popular souvenirs representing Thailand’s cultural pride and sporting prowess. If you have a friend or family member who loves martial arts, these are the ideal gift.
Phuket-Themed T-Shirts and Totes
Who doesn’t love a classic souvenir t-shirt? Phuket-themed tees and tote bags are great keepsakes that will remind you of your trip. You’ll see all kinds of designs, from the island’s famous beaches to fun slogans. These make amazing gifts that won’t take up much space in your suitcase.
Accessories, Magnets & Keychains
If you’re looking for something small that won't burn a hole in your pocket, Phuket has a huge selection of trinkets, such as keychains, magnets, and accessories with tropical designs. These little items may be small in size, but they’ll hold great memories of your time in Phuket.
Batik and Silk Products
Phuket's markets are known for beautiful textiles, including handcrafted batik and silk. These fabrics make wonderful gifts or personal mementos that carry a piece of Thailand's craftsmanship.
Spa and Aromatherapy Products
Most local markets sell essential oils and herbal balms that you can take back for your family or friends who love pampering themselves.
Dried Fruits, Nuts & Spices
Take a taste of Phuket home with you by picking up some dried fruits, nuts, or spices from the market. Delicious tropical items such as dried mango, papaya, and local spices can be a tasty reminder of your time on the island.
Where to Shop for Souvenirs in Phuket
With your souvenir list ready, it is time to explore the markets where you can find these items. Each one offers a unique shopping experience and a glimpse of local culture. Here is where to buy Phuket souvenirs at the best prices.
Chillva Market In Phuket Town
Chillva Market is one of the hippest markets in Phuket. It is a great place to find trendy clothes, accessories, and souvenirs. The cool, laid-back environment also makes it an enjoyable hangout spot. It usually opens from Mondays to Saturdays between 5 pm and 11 pm. However, it's best to go after 6 pm, when the environment is much cooler.
Phuket Walking Street
Located in Phuket Old Town, this market is a good place to explore on a Sunday evening. It takes place every Sunday from 4 pm to 9 pm on the historical Thalang Road. As you stroll through the street, you will find a wide range of handmade crafts, souvenirs, and street food.
Naka Weekend Market
The Naka Weekend Market is one of Phuket's largest and most popular markets, located near Central Festival in Phuket Town. Open to both tourists and locals, it runs every Saturday and Sunday from 4 pm to 11 pm. In this market, you will discover a wide range of traditional Thai souvenirs, including ornaments, pottery, jewelry, handcrafted carvings, and soaps at great prices.
Banzaan Market
Banzaan Market is an exciting stop for shoppers who want to buy food and clothing. The market opens daily from 6 a.m. to 12 a.m. and is a great place to pick up fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and local delicacies. In addition to food, you will also find keychains and other small gifts that you can take back with you. The market location at Patong makes it a great advantage to also visit the beach.
Karon Temple Market
For a more authentic, traditional shopping experience, head to Karon Temple Market, located near Karon Beach. This lively market is open twice a week on Tuesdays and Fridays from 4 pm to 9 pm in the evening. The market is a great place to shop for local products, like batik clothing, handcrafted crafts, and souvenirs.
Malin Plaza Patong
Malin Plaza is a cozy market situated on the southern end of Patong Beach. Open daily from 11 am to midnight, it offers a variety of inexpensive souvenirs, including clothing, accessories, and local food. Despite its small size, the market has a good mix of products, making it an ideal place for travelers to grab some last-minute gifts or enjoy street food after a day at the beach.
Kata Night Market
If you're staying in Kata, be sure to visit Kata Night Market, located near Kata Beach on Kata Road. Open every Monday and Thursday from 2 pm to 11 pm, this market is less crowded than others, providing a more private shopping experience. It’s a great place to browse for clothes, keychains and local crafts, without the crowd that comes with bigger markets.
Where to Buy Souvenirs in Malls
If you prefer air-conditioned comfort, especially during the midday heat or a rainy afternoon, Phuket's shopping malls are an excellent place to look for souvenirs. They combine local crafts with international brands, and the two largest are Jungceylon in Patong and Central Phuket in Phuket Town.
Jungceylon
Located in the heart of Patong, just a few minutes' walk from Bangla Road and Patong Beach, Jungceylon is the largest mall on the island, spanning over 200,000 square meters with more than 200 shops. Following a major renovation in 2024, it offers a refreshed, comfortable shopping experience. For souvenirs, head to That's Siam on the basement floor, a dedicated zone filled with Thai art, handicrafts, and gifts from across the country. You will also find local stalls selling handmade soaps, coconut-shell crafts, and island-themed decor, along with Thai silk, spa products, dining, and a cinema. Jungceylon is open daily.
Central Phuket
Central Phuket, in Phuket Town, is one of the largest shopping complexes in southern Thailand, with more than 400 stores across its two connected sections, Central Festival and Central Floresta. It blends international brands with local boutiques and crafts. For quality Thai souvenirs, visit Jim Thompson, the renowned Thai silk brand known for scarves, bags, and charming little elephant silk toys, while the ground floor of Central Floresta has souvenir shops offering clothing, accessories, home decor, and gifts. The complex is also home to Aquaria Phuket, one of Thailand's largest aquariums, making it a good stop for families. Central Phuket is open daily.
The Bazaar at Andamanda Phuket
While exploring theattractions in Phuket, do not miss The Bazaar at Andamanda Phuket, where you can shop for souvenirs from Phuket while enjoying a day at the water park. The Bazaar offers t-shirts, accessories, and spa products, so you can easily pick up gifts between rides and water park activities.
Our family-friendly water park is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want to enjoy both shopping and exciting attractions in one place. With thrilling slides, pools, and kid-friendly areas, Andamanda Phuket offers great value for money and makes for an unforgettable day out with the family. Book your tickets today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shopping for Souvenirs in Phuket
What souvenirs should I buy in Phuket?
Popular souvenirs include elephant pants, Muay Thai shorts, Phuket-themed t-shirts, batik and silk textiles, spa and aromatherapy products, and dried tropical fruits and spices. Small items like keychains and magnets also make easy, affordable gifts.
Where can I buy souvenirs in Phuket?
You can buy souvenirs in Phuket at local markets such as Naka Weekend Market, Chillva Market, and Phuket Walking Street, or in air-conditioned malls like Jungceylon and Central Phuket. The Bazaar at Andamanda Phuket is another convenient option.
Which Phuket mall has the best Thai souvenirs?
Both main malls are strong choices. Jungceylon in Patong has That's Siam, a basement zone dedicated to Thai handicrafts and gifts, while Central Phuket in Phuket Town offers quality Thai silk at Jim Thompson, along with local craft shops in Central Floresta.
Are local markets or malls better for souvenir shopping in Phuket?
Both have advantages. Local markets offer the lowest prices and a lively cultural atmosphere, and bargaining is expected. Malls provide air-conditioned comfort, fixed prices, and a mix of local crafts and international brands, which is helpful during hot or rainy weather.