This arcane and fascinating market claims the footpaths along Th Maha Rat and Th Phra Chan, as well as a dense network of covered market stalls that runs south from Phra Chan Pier. The easiest entry point is clearly marked "Trok Maha That." The trade is based around small pra kreu ang (amulets) – talismans that can bring good luck and offer spiritual protection from the slings and arrows of everyday life. They are big business in Thailand, with some fetching over US$1 million. Most devout Buddhists, be they young or old, rich or poor, have at least one amulet, believing them to offer either physical or mental protection, depending on what type of amulet it is.
Potential buyers, often already sporting many amulets, can be seen bargaining and flipping through magazines dedicated to the amulets, some of which command astronomical prices. It's a great place to wander and watch men (women collectors are rare) looking through magnifying glasses at the tiny amulets, seeking hidden meaning and, if they’re lucky, hidden value. As for the amulets themselves, they are usually miniature Buddha statues enclosed in a glass locket. The market is open daily from 7am to 5pm.
