It pays to get up early in Thailand. The markets are usually buzzing well before daybreak.

During a recent visit to Chiang Rai in northern Thailand I went to the market at 6 a.m. and it was in full swing.

Vendors had staked out their regular pitch offering fresh vegetables, fish, meat, and breakfast dishes.

Wild duck was also on offer.

Chiang Rai morning market is located between the two clock towers. There’s also a great evening market in the same area where you can buy some fantastic cooked local dishes.

It’s lychee season up north right now and when a truck from a local farm pulled in with a freshly picked crop it caused a buying frenzy. A four kilos for 100 baht, who could resist?

The monks also do their rounds in the market.