35 Unique Things to buy in Bangkok (2026)

These unique things to buy in Bangkok cover quirky souvenirs, local items and unique picks for your next shopping visit in the city.

Bangkok is one of the best cities in the world for unique shopping, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern creativity. From bustling street markets to trendy boutique malls, the city offers an incredible variety of handmade crafts, stylish local fashion, and one-of-a-kind souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else.

Shoppers can browse everything from handwoven textiles and artisanal jewelry to eco-friendly home décor and contemporary Thai designer pieces—all at affordable prices. The vibrant mix of old and new, along with the city’s energetic market culture and friendly haggling spirit, makes every shopping trip in Bangkok an adventure full of color, character, and authentic local charm.

Unique Things to buy in Bangkok

1. Handcrafted Coconut Shell Bowls

Made from polished coconut shells, these eco-friendly bowls are both stylish and sustainable, one of our favourite unique things to buy in Bangkok (we have 5). They come lined with bright lacquer, mother-of-pearl, or natural finishes. Perfect for smoothies or décor, they’re found in Chatuchak Market and small eco shops around Sukhumvit.

2. Thai Triangle Cushions (Kapok Pillows)

These colorful, foldable triangular cushions are traditional Thai lounging pillows filled with natural kapok fiber. They’re ideal for meditation spaces or reading corners at home and are uniquely Thai. You’ll spot them in Chatuchak or the Banglamphu area.

3. Silver Jewelry from Chiang Mai Artisans

While Chiang Mai is famous for its silverwork, Bangkok’s markets and boutiques stock handmade pieces from Northern Thailand artisans. Look for minimalist or tribal designs sold at Or Tor Kor Market or artisan stalls at JJ Market.

4. Customized Name Jewelry in Thai Script

For a one-of-a-kind souvenir, you can get your name or initials written in Thai and made into a pendant or bracelet. Many small stalls in MBK Center or Pratunam Market offer affordable, made-while-you-wait options.

5. Elephant Dung Paper Products

Eco-conscious and surprisingly elegant, paper made from recycled elephant dung is soft, odor-free, and used for notebooks, photo albums, and greeting cards. The Elephant PooPooPaper Park brand often has stalls in Bangkok markets.

6. Thai Herbal Compress Balls

Used in traditional Thai massages, these cotton-wrapped herbal balls are filled with natural herbs like lemongrass and camphor. They can be steamed and applied to muscles at home for a spa-like experience. Pick them up in massage supply shops or health markets.

7. Locally Designed Bangkok Street Art Prints

Bangkok’s creative scene is booming, and young artists sell graffiti-inspired or pop-art prints reflecting Thai street culture. You’ll find these unique prints at JJ Market, art fairs, or small design stores like Papaya Studio.

8. Thai Temple Amulets (Pra Khruang)

Thais wear sacred amulets for protection and luck. These tiny Buddha charms are often blessed by monks and come in intricate designs. Buy them from reputable temples or specialized amulet markets like Tha Prachan near the Grand Palace.

9. Traditional Benjarong Porcelain

Benjarong ware is painted with detailed multicolored enamel designs and gold trim — a craft once reserved for Thai royalty. Mini cups, bowls, or jars make unique, elegant souvenirs. You can find authentic pieces at the Old Siam Plaza.

10. Handmade Soap Carvings

Soap flowers carved into intricate shapes and displayed in wooden boxes are a distinctly Thai art form. They look like real flowers and make fragrant, decorative gifts. Available at floating markets and tourist stalls for very affordable prices.

11. Thai Spa and Aromatherapy Sets

Luxury spa brands like HARNN, Divana, or Lemongrass House create natural, beautifully packaged products made in Thailand. Their travel sets or essential oils make perfect gifts and are cheaper when bought locally.

12. Thai Whiskey or Rum (Local Spirits)

Our next unique things to buy in Bangkok, is for the adults. Local brands like SangSom rum or Mekhong whiskey are affordable and uniquely Thai. These spirits are popular among locals and are great souvenirs for adults. Pick up a sealed bottle from supermarkets for the best price.

13. Floating Market Handicrafts

Each floating market has its specialties — handwoven baskets, coconut shell lamps, or hand-painted ceramics. Shopping from these boat vendors gives you a unique cultural experience along with a beautiful handmade souvenir.

14. Batik Fabric from Southern Thailand

Brightly colored batik fabrics featuring traditional Thai or Malay patterns are unique to Thailand’s southern provinces but sold in Bangkok markets. Use them for clothing, wall hangings, or crafts.

15. Local Thai Designer Fashion

Bangkok is home to many independent fashion designers offering modern, creative clothing at affordable prices. Visit Terminal 21, Siam Square, or The Commons for unique, limited-edition pieces you won’t find back home.

16. Handwoven Thai Baskets and Bags

Made from water hyacinth or bamboo, these natural bags and baskets come in intricate designs and are great for markets or beach trips. They’re sturdy, stylish, and inexpensive — available at Or Tor Kor and weekend markets.

17. Thai Zodiac or Spirit House Miniatures

Mini “spirit houses” and zodiac figurines are part of Thai cultural tradition. Mini versions made from wood or clay make fascinating keepsakes representing Thailand’s spirituality and artistry.

18. Thai Snacks with Unique Flavors

Forget standard chips — Thai snack flavors are creative! Look for seaweed, spicy crab, or durian chips. Local favorites like Tao Kae Noi or Lay’s Thailand editions are inexpensive and fun gifts for food lovers.

19. Local Coffee Beans or Drip Bags

Thailand’s northern mountains grow excellent Arabica beans. Buy local roasted coffee or drip-bag packs from brands like Doi Chang or Doi Tung at markets or supermarkets for a unique, tasty souvenir.

20. Sak Yant Tattoo-Inspired Clothing

Inspired by Thailand’s sacred tattoos, these shirts and accessories carry traditional geometric or animal motifs that symbolize strength and protection. They’re trendy, unique, and easy to find at creative markets.

21. Luk Chup (Miniature Fruit Candy)

These tiny, glossy, fruit-shaped sweets made from mung bean paste are works of edible art. They’re sold in small boxes at markets and are as photogenic as they are delicious.

22. Thai Wooden Kitchen Utensils

Beautifully carved spoons, salad tongs, and chopping boards made from teak or coconut wood are useful souvenirs that show off local craftsmanship. They’re light, functional, and affordable.

23. Handmade Leather Accessories

From wallets to passport covers, Bangkok has many stalls selling handmade leather goods at great prices. Visit Chatuchak or Siam Discovery’s craft areas for unique, locally-made designs.

24. Traditional Musical Instruments (Mini Versions)

Mini versions of Thai instruments like the khim (dulcimer) or ranad (xylophone) make distinctive cultural souvenirs. They’re decorative and educational, often sold near major cultural sites.

25. Personalized Thai Calligraphy Art

Artists at markets can write your name or favorite quote in beautiful Thai calligraphy on handmade paper or fans. It’s an inexpensive, one-of-a-kind memento.

26. Mango Wood Home Décor

Bangkok’s craft stalls sell elegant bowls, trays, and candle holders made from mango wood. They’re lightweight and often feature hand-painted designs — perfect for modern homes with a Thai twist.

27. Thai Herbal Teas

Lemongrass, butterfly pea, pandan, and roselle teas are unique to Thailand. Sold in colorful sachets or tins, they’re healthy, fragrant, and a soothing reminder of your trip.

28. Handmade Sandals or Slippers

Local artisans create stylish, woven or beaded sandals that are lightweight and comfortable. Each pair is unique and far cheaper than imported brands.

29. Thai Lacquerware

Glossy lacquerware trays, bowls, and boxes hand-painted in gold and black designs are a signature Thai craft. They make stunning souvenirs and are available in various sizes and budgets.

30. Thai Comics and Graphic Novels

Bangkok’s bookstores and comic stalls stock Thai-language graphic novels with eye-catching artwork — a great find for collectors or art lovers.

31. Antique Reproductions and Vintage Finds

Bangkok’s Chatuchak and Talad Rot Fai (Train Market) offer quirky vintage signs, old movie posters, and antique-style trinkets that bring retro Thai charm home.

32. Handcrafted Ceramic Tableware

Independent potters sell handmade ceramic mugs, plates, and chopstick holders with artistic flair. No two pieces are alike — visit Chatuchak’s artist zones for these treasures.

33. Thai Beauty Products and Skincare

Local brands like Snail White, Mistine, and Srichand offer unique skincare products made in Thailand. They’re affordable, effective, and often feature traditional herbal ingredients.

34. Muay Thai Shorts or Boxing Gear

Authentic Muay Thai shorts, gloves, or training wraps make distinctive sporty souvenirs. Get them from local fight gear shops near stadiums like Rajadamnern or Lumpinee, these make for another unique things to buy in Bangkok.

35. Handcrafted Candles and Incense Sets

Many Thai artisans create natural candles shaped like flowers or fruits, infused with coconut or jasmine scents. They’re perfect for gifts and found in craft markets or boutique spas.

Unique Things to Buy in Bangkok FAQ

What are some unique things to buy in Bangkok?
Bangkok is full of creative finds — from handmade coconut bowls and Thai silk to locally designed jewelry, herbal spa products, and Benjarong porcelain. You’ll also discover eco-friendly items like elephant dung paper, hand-carved soaps, and bamboo bags that make truly memorable souvenirs.

Where can I find authentic handmade souvenirs in Bangkok?
For authentic handmade goods, visit Chatuchak Weekend Market, Sampeng Market in Chinatown, or creative hubs like Siam Square, The Commons, and JJ Mall. Many stalls feature products made by local artisans from across Thailand.

Are unique Thai souvenirs expensive?
Not at all. Most unique Thai items—such as handmade soaps, herbal teas, and small crafts—are surprisingly affordable. Even beautifully made silk scarves or pottery pieces are much cheaper than in Western markets, especially if you shop where locals do.

What’s a good unique souvenir for friends and family?
Thai herbal spa sets, carved soap flowers, handmade jewelry, and local snacks like dried mango or coconut candy make great gifts. They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and give a real taste of Thailand’s charm and creativity.

Where can I buy Thai designer fashion or modern crafts?
Check out Siam Discovery, Terminal 21, and Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) for independent Thai designers and creative brands. These areas mix modern style with traditional influence, offering limited-edition clothing and art.

Are there any cultural or spiritual souvenirs worth buying?
Yes! Thai temple amulets, mini spirit houses, and zodiac charms are meaningful souvenirs deeply rooted in Thai culture. Buy them from reputable temples or shops near the Grand Palace for authenticity.

Can I buy eco-friendly or sustainable Thai products?
Absolutely. Bangkok has many eco-conscious markets selling products like bamboo straws, recycled elephant dung paper, and coconut shell homeware. Stores such as “Lemongrass House” and “Elephant PooPooPaper” specialize in sustainable Thai goods.

What’s the best market for unique handmade items in Bangkok?
The Chatuchak Weekend Market is unbeatable for variety and value. You’ll find sections devoted to art, crafts, ceramics, home décor, and fashion. Talad Rot Fai (Train Market) also offers vintage and retro treasures with a unique Thai twist.

How can I tell if an item is authentic or locally made?
Look for handmade details, local labeling, or artisans actively crafting their products at the stall. Items mass-produced in factories tend to appear identical and are often imported from abroad. Authentic pieces usually have small imperfections that make them special.

Can I bargain for unique souvenirs in Bangkok?
Yes — bargaining is common at markets and street stalls. Start by offering around 60–70% of the asking price and negotiate politely. In shopping malls or designer boutiques, however, prices are fixed.

Are there restrictions on bringing certain Thai products home?
Avoid buying antique Buddha images or real ivory products, as they are protected under Thai law and can’t be exported. Stick to small Buddha amulets, artwork, and handicrafts for safe, legal souvenirs.

When is the best time to shop for unique items in Bangkok?
Visit markets early in the morning or in the late afternoon when it’s cooler and less crowded. If you’re in Bangkok on a weekend, don’t miss Chatuchak — it’s open only Saturday and Sunday and offers the widest range of handmade goods.