Sweet, golden, and fragrant — dried longan (lamyai in Thai) is one of Thailand’s most beloved natural snacks. Whether you sip it in herbal tea, add it to desserts, or nibble it by the handful, this chewy fruit carries the essence of Northern Thailand’s orchards right into the heart of the capital.
If you’ve ever wondered where to buy dried longan in Bangkok, you’re in for a treat. From century-old markets in Chinatown to sleek modern grocery stores and airport souvenir counters, the city offers endless ways to take home this healthy indulgence.
In this guide, we’ll explore seven of the best places to buy dried longan in Bangkok, along with insider tips on prices, packaging, and what makes authentic Thai longan stand out.
🥭 1. Yaowarat (Chinatown) — Bangkok’s Sweet Goldmine
If there’s one place in Bangkok that celebrates the longan like royalty, it’s Yaowarat, the city’s bustling Chinatown.
Wander along Yaowarat Road and you’ll find shopfronts stacked with dried fruits — mango, tamarind, durian, and of course, longan from Chiang Mai and Lamphun (Thailand’s northern provinces famous for premium harvests).
The aroma here is unmistakable: a blend of roasted nuts, Chinese herbs, and sun-dried sweetness wafting through narrow lanes.
💡 Top Shops to Visit:
- Tang Toh Kang (ตั้งโต๊ะกัง): A heritage dried fruit store near Yaowarat Soi 6, known for its high-quality Lamphun longan.
- Lim Jing Hieng: Famous for vacuum-packed Thai-Chinese delicacies — ideal for travel gifts.
- Chinatown Old Market: Great for bulk buying and price negotiation.
💰 Average Price: 300–600 THB per kilo, depending on grade and packaging.
🕒 Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening to avoid crowds.
🧺 2. Or Tor Kor Market — Premium Produce, Local Flair
Ranked among the world’s top fresh markets, Or Tor Kor (opposite Chatuchak) offers an upscale experience for fruit lovers.
Here, longan is presented like jewelry — neatly packed in clear containers, labeled by origin, and sometimes coated lightly with sugar for a candied finish.
Vendors often let you taste before buying, explaining the difference between northern and central Thai varieties. The premium longans here are usually sourced from Lamphun, known for their rich honey aroma and chewy texture.
🍯 Insider Tip: Ask for lamyai ob (roasted longan) if you prefer a smoky, nutty flavor — it’s delicious in tea or desserts.
🚆 How to Get There: MRT Kamphaeng Phet (Exit 3) — just across from Chatuchak Weekend Market.
🏮 3. Sampeng Market — Wholesale Heaven
For bargain hunters, Sampeng Market in Chinatown is a dream. This lively wholesale bazaar sells everything from fabric to snacks — and dried longan by the bagful.
Most vendors here sell in bulk, so it’s ideal if you’re buying souvenirs for family or planning to resell back home. You can find vacuum-sealed longan at wholesale rates — usually 20–40% cheaper than retail markets.
🧭 Where to Go:
Enter from Soi Wanit 1, walk toward the back lanes near Sampeng Plaza. Look for stalls with bins of golden dried fruit and “Made in Lamphun” labels.
💬 Traveler Tip: Bring cash — most vendors don’t accept cards.
🛒 4. Tops Market & Gourmet Market — For Travelers Who Prefer Convenience
If you’d rather shop in air-conditioned comfort, Bangkok’s premium supermarkets offer a wide range of dried longan products, from plain organic varieties to elegant export-grade packaging.
You’ll find both local and international brands beautifully packed and clearly labeled in English — perfect for gifting.
🛍️ Where to Buy:
- Tops Market (Central World, Silom, Terminal 21)
- Gourmet Market (Siam Paragon, EmQuartier)
💡 Pro Tip: Look for brands labeled “Chiang Mai Organic Longan” or “Lamphun Royal Project.” These are trusted for quality and hygiene.
💰 Price Range: 180–400 THB for 200g vacuum packs.
🌿 5. Chatuchak Weekend Market — Local Flavor, Great Finds
Few experiences capture Bangkok’s sensory chaos like Chatuchak Market — and among the 15,000 stalls, you’ll find several dedicated to Thai herbal teas and dried fruits.
Here, dried longan is often sold alongside dried chrysanthemum, roselle, and jujube, perfect for DIY herbal tea blends.
You’ll spot locals buying kilo bags to brew sweet longan tea (nam lamyai), known for its cooling, restorative properties — especially on Bangkok’s hottest afternoons.
🔥 Local Tip: Visit Section 22 (Food & Herbal Zone) for authentic, good-value longan. Many sellers will let you sample before buying.
✈️ 6. Don Mueang & Suvarnabhumi Airports — Last-Minute Souvenirs
Forgot to grab a pack before your flight? Don’t worry — both Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport feature souvenir shops selling dried longan, often alongside mango and durian chips.
While prices are higher, packaging is travel-ready and certified for export.
🧳 Recommended Shops:
- Taste of Thailand (Departure Hall, Suvarnabhumi)
- King Power Duty Free (Don Mueang, 3rd Floor)
💰 Price Range: 250–500 THB for small vacuum-sealed bags.
✈️ Pro Tip: Always check packaging for a “Product of Thailand” label — imitation imports sometimes sneak into tourist zones.
🍃 7. Royal Project Shops — Sustainable, Farm-to-Table Thai Quality
For those who value sustainability and authenticity, the Royal Project Foundation stores are a must. These government-supported outlets sell agricultural products grown ethically by hill tribes in Northern Thailand.
Their dried longan is naturally sun-dried, free from additives, and sourced from Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai farms.
You’ll find these shops in malls like Siam Paragon, EmQuartier, and Central Embassy, and at Bangkok’s Royal Project flagship near Sukhumvit Soi 39.
🌱 Why It Matters: Every purchase supports local farmers and upland communities, making your souvenir a contribution to Thailand’s sustainable agriculture movement.
💰 Price: 200–350 THB per 200g pack.
🌸 How to Identify Quality Dried Longan
When shopping for dried longan in Bangkok, keep these simple tips in mind:
✅ Color: Light golden brown — too dark means over-dried.
✅ Texture: Soft and chewy, not brittle.
✅ Aroma: Sweet and floral, never smoky or sour.
✅ Origin: Lamphun and Chiang Mai longans are prized for flavor and sweetness.
✅ Packaging: Vacuum-sealed packs stay fresher and travel better.
🍵 Bonus Use: Soak a handful in hot water for a soothing Thai longan tea — perfect for jet lag or humid afternoons.
💬 Conclusion: Sweet Souvenirs, Lasting Memories
So, where to buy dried longan in Bangkok? From the heritage lanes of Yaowarat to the high-end aisles of Gourmet Market, the city makes it easy to find this golden delicacy — whether you’re after authenticity, convenience, or value.
More than just a snack, dried longan captures the heart of Thailand’s culture — warm, natural, and subtly sweet. It’s a flavor that lingers long after your trip ends.
So next time you’re in Bangkok, skip the usual trinkets. Bring home a taste of Thailand instead — one chewy, fragrant bite at a time.
✈️ Explore more Bangkok food finds and local markets on BangkokVacay.com.
🙋♀️ FAQ — Where To Buy Dried Longan in Bangkok
1. What is the best place to buy dried longan in Bangkok?
Yaowarat Chinatown offers the widest selection and best quality — from Tang Toh Kang to Lim Jing Hieng.
2. Is dried longan from Thailand good quality?
Yes! Thai dried longan, especially from Lamphun and Chiang Mai, is among the best in Asia.
3. Can I buy dried longan at Bangkok airports?
Yes, both Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang sell travel-ready packs at souvenir shops.
4. How long does dried longan last?
If sealed properly, it lasts 6–12 months. Store in a cool, dry place.
5. Can I bring dried longan back home internationally?
Most countries allow packaged dried fruit, but always check your customs rules before flying.
6. What’s the difference between Thai and Chinese dried longan?
Thai longan tends to be sweeter and lighter, while Chinese varieties are darker and more herbal.
📚 Citations
⚡ Summary (TL;DR)
The best places to buy dried longan in Bangkok include Yaowarat (Chinatown), Or Tor Kor Market, Sampeng, Chatuchak, and Royal Project Shops.
Look for golden Lamphun longans, vacuum-sealed packaging, and trusted local vendors. A sweet, authentic taste of Thailand — perfect for souvenirs.