Saturday-evening Walking Street’ in Chiang Rai, Thailand......

On Friday afternoon, friend Samantha inquired if I am interested to take a stroll in the ‘Saturday Evening Walking Street’ in Chiang Rai. I am aware of this street very much because, I and my wife had ventured into this festive-looking street last year once.  

Every Saturday night, in the heart of Chiang Rai city, Thailand, one of the main roads in the central market area, Thanalai road, is closed to traffic from 5pm to 11pm and adopts a festive look. The whole street outlook changes...........!

Melvina, Chinthani, Nalin, Dhanu and Foi joined me and Samantha, yesterday. We parked our vehicle near the musical clock tower and set out walking the street. It was indeed a long walk on this busy, crowded road.....

With numerous lanterns and electrical lights illuminating the road, scores of make-shift small shops displayed and sold all kinds materials which included readymade garments, perfumes, indoor plants, lots of hand-made souveniers and fruits and vegetables, all for very small prices. Street foods, soft-drinks, music and group dancing enthralled the street and gave a festive look.

It took more than two hours for us to cover the long street. Most memorable evening indeed.............!

 

     ..................D. Jayarama Bhat