Shopping in India

Shopping in India is not always as simple as a visit to the neighbourhood shopping mall and swiping your debit card. Almost all of these sites are a joy to shop in, with a plethora of eccentric and iconic bazaars where you can find just about whatever you're looking for. Street markets or flea markets are a godsend for anyone who imagines travelling or experiencing a city as an opportunity to fill a bag with local goods. Flea markets are popular among domestic and international travellers, as well as locals, because of the local culture, the best of what's in fashion, and, of course, the dirt cheap prices. Here are most popular markets in India:

1. Chandni Chowk, Delhi- Chandni Chowk is a maze of winding alleys and narrow passageways that lead to a never-ending stream of shops. It is one of Delhi's oldest and most well-preserved business districts. The market is divided into several small bazaars, including Katra Neel, Chatta Chowk, Khari Baoli, Tilak Bazaar, Chor Bazaar, Daryaganji, and Paranthe Wali Gali, each specialising in different types of commodities such as fabrics, electronics, hardware, culinary equipment, and old books. Prepare to haggle hard in order to bring home some fantastic traditional items and keepsakes. The market is known for its antiques, silverware, and precious stones, and it emanates the city's ancient charm.
2. Bapu Bazaar, Jaipur- In Jaipur, you'll find the most bustling street marketplaces. If you want to buy something ethnic and traditional, the street markets in Jaipur are a terrific place to go. Bapu Bazar in Jaipur is an example of an Indian street market where famous Jaipuri dupattas, antique jewellery, and camel-skin 'mojaris' may be found. You may also receive natural henna on your hands and satisfy your hunger with the delicious 'faluda kulfi' and 'gol-gappas' available at every corner of this market.
3. Connaught Place, Delhi- Connaught Place is one of Delhi's most well-known shopping districts. One of Delhi's busiest districts is the gorgeous white-colored marketplace, which is located in the city's centre. The well-organised branded stores and outlets at Connaught Place sell a wide range of fashionable clothing, beautiful jewellery, Indian books, handicraft products, electronic goods, and more. Aside from it, the region is home to a variety of restaurants, chic cafés, offices, and multiplexes.
4. Gariahat Market, Kolkata- You can't help but be charmed by the enormous diversity of things on display in the stores and tented stalls as you walk along this lengthy zigzag road. The Gariahat shopping zone has a significant variety of cafés, shops, and stores selling crockery, home furnishings, readymade garments and fabrics, quilts, woollens, electronic products, sarees, furniture, and other items to buy in Kolkata.
5. Colaba Causeway, Mumbai- The South Mumbai bazaar is one of the city's most prominent markets, with walkways lined with colourful kurtas, kaftans, Kolhapuri chappals, jewellery, and vintage antiques like hookahs and gramophones. There's also a unique selection of jute, cane, and even wood purses. Simply going to the market is a lovely experience that may be capped off with a relaxing drink at the Leopold cafe.
6. Sarojini Nagar, Delhi- When you think about inexpensive shopping in Delhi, the first word that comes to mind is Sarojini Nagar, sometimes known as SN by Delhiites, and trust us, the hype is well-deserved. It's where you'll get the most recent trends at rock-bottom prices. From shoes, bracelets, and necklaces to outfits, handbags, and cosmetics, you'll find it all here.
7. Johari Bazaar, Jaipur- The gorgeous jewellery is what pulls the bulk of tourists to Johari Bazaar, which sells a wide variety of commodities. There are shops selling jewels, diamonds, and precious metals, making it a jeweller's paradise. If you're willing to spend some money, look into traditional Rajasthani jewellery.
8. Jew Town, Kochi- Antique lovers will love Jew Town in Kochi's Mattancherry neighbourhood. The "antique lovers' heaven" is the name given to this gorgeous market in Kerala's state capital. The scent of the native spices sold at this market, which is surrounded by colonial-era buildings, will charm you. The 16th-century ancient market will fascinate you with both its goods and its environment. Curiosities, antiques, handicrafts, spices, jewellery, conch items, and just about everything; the 16th-century ancient market will enchant you with both its goods and its ambiance. Many of the merchants and shops are members of the Jewish community, as the name implies. It will be rather gratifying if you happen to strike up a genuine chat with them, as they are well-versed in the area's rich history.
9. Hazratganj, Lucknow- A vacation to Lucknow is never complete without a shopping spree in the city's spectacular and bustling bazaars. Hazratganj, in Lucknow's core, is the ideal location for some of the country's best street shopping. Aside from the city's amazing cultural grandeur, the city's splendour is enhanced by popular handloom products and Lucknow chikan material. Some of India's most beautiful street boutiques may be found in Hazratganj. You'll be pleased to see Hazratganj's vast array of street food options if you're a foodie.
10. Arpora Saturday Night Market, Goa- To tell you the truth, you won't need much for your trip to Goa. Goa's local markets are loaded with everything beachy you'll need for your forthcoming beach holiday to make you feel like a million bucks. The Arpora Saturday Night Market in Goa attracts shoppers with a wide range of accessories and clothing. From a lively environment to very stylish merchandise, this market has something for everyone. The market's different food stalls also serve authentic Goan cuisine. This flea market, located in one of India's most renowned tourist destinations, is perfect for a shopping spree. Shopping is the greatest pleasure, aside from basking on Goa's lovely beaches.
11. Karol Bagh, Delhi- A visit to the Karol Bagh Market, which caters to all types of shoppers, would be incomplete if you were shopping in Delhi. While Karol Bagh is most known for Indian traditional and modern western clothing, expensive bridal attire, and cosmetics, adjoining Ajmal Khan Road, Gaffar Market, Arya Samaj Road, and Bank Street also offer a diversified shopping experience. Stop by one of the many cafes that cater to shoppers for a quick bite to eat if you're weary and hungry after a day of shopping.
12. Chor Bazaar, Mumbai- The Thieves' Market, also known as Chor Bazaar, is essentially a flea market disguised as a flea market. From Saturday to Thursday, it's a treasure hunt for antiques and discarded stuff. It's a great place to get Bollywood posters and accessories (a gramophone player, anyone? ), as well as clocks, ceramic door knobs, and tiles. These shops contain enough goods to outfit a whole bedsit. Even if the shopkeepers aren't thieves, they'll try to con you, so cut their asking price in half and bargain hard.
13. Delhi Haat, Delhi- Dilli Haat, a massive bazaar constructed by the Delhi government and modelled after a rustic village market, is a must-see for any tourist visiting the country's capital. The thatched-roof booth homes here host an eclectic mix of Indian cultural activities, cuisines, a craft fair, folk art performances, and more. The bustling shopping destination has something for everyone, and you'll have a hard time resisting the urge to peruse the gorgeous collectibles. The open-air market sells traditional handicrafts, antiques, varied beads, jewels, jewellery, footwear, Madhubani paintings, and Phulkari.
14. Fashion Street, Mumbai- Fashion Street is a prominent Indian street market in Mumbai where you can find the best collection of trendy clothing, accessories, and delectable street food. Fashion Street is a terrific place for both impulsive and scheduled shoppers to enjoy economical shopping in India. The costs are relatively modest because the market caters mostly to students. This enormous market sells everything from gadgets and electronics to trousers, track pants, shirts, skirts, ethnic dress, bracelets, bangles, sunglasses, and accessories.
15. Ima Keithel, Imphal- Imphal's Ima Keithel market is worth a visit because it is the world's only market dominated by women traders. The pride of the country is this 16th-century mediaeval street market in the heart of the city. The happy faces of females selling anything from local handicrafts to home items, clothing, jewellery, and other souvenirs across the counters are a treat to see. Even in India's markets, where they are financially supporting their families, Indian tourism takes pride in displaying such diversity. Visit Manipur and buy some lovely handicrafts. This market will cause you to pause and consider your options.
16. Floating Market, Srinagar- This market is one of India's most unusual, and it is well worth a visit. Srinagar's Dal Lake's floating vegetable market is a renowned tourist attraction with its serene lake and lotus plants. On traditional Kashmiri boats known as Shikaras, the vegetable sellers arrive early in the morning, between 5 and 7 a.m. To keep guests interested, many shikaras are now selling saffron, wood carvings, and other tourist-oriented items.
17. Pondy Bazaar, Chennai- It is the city's main business district and a one-stop shop for all of your shopping requirements. Consider what you want to buy, and you'll almost likely find it here. Its most enticing characteristic is the amount of stores offering a varied assortment of clothes, shoes, and accessories. You can get fantastic deals if you know how to haggle. Here you can find delicious South Indian papadums.
18. New Market, Kolkata- In Kolkata's famous New Market's dense maze of traders, you might need to take a break. With approximately 2500 sellers, India's only organised street market is noted for its cheap and affordable prices. Cotton saris, Bankura clay horses, brassware, leather purses, Murshidabad silk, khadi, wigs, poultry, cheeses, almonds, and other items are on sale. If you get lost in the maze of shops here, don't panic. Simply hire a guide to assist you in locating your desired item.
19. Begum Bazaar, Hyderabad- The world-famous Charminar is located across the Musi River from Begum Bazaar. It is Hyderabad's largest wholesale market and dates back to the Qutub Shahi dynasty. Gold and silver jewellery, home supplies, dry fruits, dinnerware, religious artefacts, chocolates, apparel, and footwear are all offered at wholesale costs.
20. Crawford Market, Mumbai- This Gothic structure has provided a solemn background for sellers selling everything from paper cups to puppies since 1869. It was the country's first structure to be lit by electricity, and it is one of Mumbai's oldest covered markets. Despite the fact that it was renamed Jyotiba Phule Mandai after independence, it is still known as Crawford Market by everyone. It's closed on Sundays, but it's the best place to get wholesale fruits, nuts, and vegetables on other days.
21. Lakkar Bazaar, Shimla- If you're looking for hardwood handicrafts, jewellery, or souvenirs, head to Shimla's Lakkar Bazaar (wood market). Wooden toys, as well as walking sticks made of wood, are very popular. On the ridge near Shimla, the Lakkar Bazaar shows the numerous types of wood found in Himachal Pradesh. Woolens and Kullu shawls, which are also popular, are available for purchase at shops.
22. Dadar Flower Market, Mumbai- You'll have to get up early to smell the blooms because everything is gone by 9 a.m. Flower vendors from all over the city flock to the wholesalers along the flyover to get their day's supply of orange gerbera daisies and purple orchids mixed in with gladioli and tuberoses. Once you've finished taking pictures, head to the covered shed where cut flowers—mostly roses and marigolds—are sold for temple and prayer offerings. The entire region smells wonderful and appears to be lovely.
23. Sadar Market, Jodhpur- At the foot of the famous Mehrangarh Fort, this market, a crisscrossing network of narrow passageways dotted with booths, stores, and shacks providing a variety of goods, pulsates with a distinct energy. The bazaar, which is popular with locals and a must-see for both domestic and international visitors, sells a wide variety of items. Jewellery, bridal gowns, cookware, steel utensils, spices, vegetables, sweets, silver, handicrafts, and leather shoes are all available at reasonable costs.
24. Khan Market, Delhi- Expats and Delhi's elite frequent Khan Market, which is famed for its beautifully designed handicrafts, flawlessly sculpted wood and stone sculptures, stylish footwear, attractive inexpensive souvenirs, and diverse handlooms. There are a few fantastic places to eat and drink if you want to unwind after your shopping.
25. Serenity Beach Market, Puducherry- Puducherry is famed for its clean beaches and the vibrancy that beach shacks provide. At Puducherry's Serenity Beach, the Serenity Beach Bazaar is a well-known street market. The market is an open-air market with shade provided by palm trees. Serenity Bazaar is well-known for its Auroville-made items and local retailers. Various handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing, jewellery, accessories, and clothing are available for purchase.
26. Fergusson College Road, Pune- Another popular shopping destination in India is Fergusson College Road in Pune. While visiting Pune and enjoying your vacation, pay a quick visit to the FC road market. Prepare to splurge on trendy items including accessories, watches, shoes, clothing, and more in this market's short aisles. It's important to remember that bargaining is necessary, and you'll see that many municipalities are doing so. Take their advice and bring home some fantastic mementos.
27. Bagru, Rajasthan- A small village half an hour's drive from Jaipur attracts tourists and purchasers from all over the world for its specialty in hand block printing. If you're in Jaipur, Bagru is the place to go for intricate work on cotton and silk fabrics, as well as custom order processing. Some people, we've heard, can't get enough of the exquisite hand block printing designs, which range from home furnishings to all-day apparels, once they arrive!
28. Devaraja Market, Mysuru- It's the city's oldest market complex, and it's a great spot to get a sense of the brightness, colour, life, and tangled chaos that traditional Indian markets are known for. The market is brimming with incense shops, various shops selling home goods, fresh flowers, adornments, vegetables, natural products, Kumkum, betel plant, banana leaves, scents, and even souvenir booths. Everything is fresh and uncooked, right from the farm to the market, due to a shortage of cold storage. For a good shopping experience, remember to use your negotiating skills.
29. Hathi Pol Bazaar, Udaipur- One of Udaipur's most well-known attractions, Hathi Pol Bazaar, draws a considerable number of people. If you're seeking souvenirs, this is the place to go. Traditional Rajasthani Pichwai and Phad canvases created by local artists, as well as excellent handicrafts, antiquities, and fine art, can be found here. There are a few shops selling Rajasthani folk art and scaled-down paintings for a reasonable price. If you value craftsmanship, this is the place for you. You can take a piece of art home with you that will remind you of Udaipur every time you look at it.
30. Janpath Market, Delhi- Janpath Market not only sells clothes, but it also has stores that exhibit Indian culture. The gothic market in the capital city features two different lanes. One lane is packed with Indian handicrafts, handlooms, purses, and souvenirs, while the other is brimming with locals selling street style clothing and accessories at bargain prices. Towards the back of the market, a few stalls by diverse people from various states of India are a delightful surprise. The true worth of Janpath lies in a few booths offering exquisite handcrafted materials from Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and other regions.
31. Police Bazar, Shillong- Police Bazar is the most well-known shopping area not only in Shillong's hill station, but maybe all of Meghalaya. If you're seeking for detailed handicrafts made by the region's indigenous inhabitants, this is your best bet. You won't have to delve too deep into your wallet because the majority of the things sold here are fairly priced.
32. Mall Road, Manali- Mall Road is one of Manali's most popular shopping areas. It is also one of the most popular tourist spots in the hill station, attracting a large number of visitors. It is a popular shopping destination in Manali because of the various activities available throughout the day, as well as the opportunity to explore the street stores while shopping. The shops on both sides of the road are nicely arranged and provide a variety of appealing items that you may purchase at a reasonable price by demonstrating your bargaining skills. On Mall Road, you may buy a wide variety of merchandise, including famous Kashmiri shawls, sarees, books, antiques, and much more. You'll also come across a number of locations where you may treat your taste buds to a delectable pleasure.
33. Baga Market, Goa- Baga Market is a well-known flea market that attracts a large number of tourists. It has rows and rows of shacks selling trinkets, jewellery, cafes selling freshly brewed coffee, pig specialities, and tarot card readers. It is located on Baga Beach. The seashore saloons are the main draw of this market.
34. Bada Bazar, Kolkata- Bada Bazar, another of the city's oldest wholesale markets, is located near the Central Metro Station. The market is one of the largest, and it sees a lot of foot traffic around the holidays. The market is divided into four major sections: Tulapatti, Fancypatti, Dhotipatti, and Chinipatti. The holiday season brings with it joyful and thrilling sensations on the streets, with sweets on display, puja items for sale, and people haggling hard to get the best deal on items such as clothing and footwear.
35. Lal Chowk, Kashmir- Kashmir is known for its shawls and carpets, and Lal chowk is where you can find them. While Pashmina Shawls and Silk Carpets can leave a dent in your wallet, the investment will be well worth it because these are the most popular goods in Kashmir. Local stores provide a good deal. Visit a renowned Pashmina shawl store or bring along an expert who can help you get genuine Pashmina shawls. Remember to buy paper mache boxes and handicrafts for your family and friends!
36. Godowlia Market, Varanasi- In Varanasi, this is a well-known retail destination. Bhadohi floor coverings are notable for their diverse designs and nuances. These rugs are made with a great deal of skill. You will find wonderful selections to peruse at a great price. Aside from carpets and other ornamental items, you can also choose from various silk products such as sarees, scarves, and men's shirts, or you can order a few textures to be sewn as desired later.
37. Zaveri Bazaar, Mumbai- The prominent gold market of Mumbai, Zaveri Bazaar, is one of India's oldest and largest gold markets. It houses the majority of the country's gold exchange and has a large number of shops, some of which are quite old. Despite the fact that many of the facilities appear to be dilapidated and outmoded, they are teeming with wealth.
38. Commercial Street, Bengaluru- This is also known as 'Comm Street,' and it is one of Bengaluru's most popular shopping areas. On the connected Shoe Lane, you'll find anything from fancy saree blouses, bridal dresses, and dress material to spectacular western wear, adornments, books, and shoes.
39. Government Sandalwood Oil Factory, Mysuru- This manufacturing factory, which opened in 1916, not only allows you to purchase products made of sandalwood, but also allows you to take a guided tour of the facility to see how the various items are manufactured. You can choose from a variety of sandalwood oil, sandalwood cleansers, incense sticks, top-quality scents, beautifiers, cleansers, and more. This shopping trip, on the other hand, can be quite educational and useful because you will have the opportunity to tour the processing factory and learn how the things are made. The oil is used in the manufacture of cleansers, incense, perfumes, and makeup; it also has a variety of religious purposes, as well as skin and hair restorative and other medications.
40. Howrah Flower Market, Kolkata- The Howrah Phool Bazaar is a flower market on the east side of the renowned Howrah Bridge that hosts an enchanting celebration of colours and fragrances. If you're seeking for the greatest place to buy a large choice of flowers, this Kolkata market is the place to go. Roses, lilies, gladiolas, carnations, orchids, marigolds, gerberas, and a variety of other flowers are offered at this large market. Because the majority of the clients come here to buy flowers in quantity, the flowers are reasonably priced.
41. Lal Bazaar, Gangtok- One of Gangtok's main commercial areas, Lal Bazaar, is a bustling and colourful site where local farmers come to sell their wares or simply assemble to gossip and revel. The market was founded in 1956 and is named after J.Lal, the Chogyal district's dewan. Lal Bazaar is a multi-purpose retail centre that sells both common needs like incense sticks, butter, and cheese, as well as cutting-edge technology. The market is divided into floors and is situated within a building, with the smells of dried fish, cheese, and vegetables filling the air.
42. Mackie’s Night Market, Goa- Mackie's night bazaar is the place to go if you want to recharge your batteries after a night on the town in Goa. On Baga Beach, this vibrantly illuminated market operates every Saturday till late. Several street stores sell unique jewellery, fashionable beachwear, clothing, curiosities, collectibles, and handcrafted items. The combination of the market's awe-inspiring lights and live music is sure to be an entertaining experience.
43. Manek Chowk & Rani no Hajiro, Ahmedabad- Manek Chowk, a well-known city square in Old Ahmedabad, is a multilevel bazaar that changes its appearance as the day progresses. It starts out as a vegetable market, then transforms into a bullion market as the day progresses, and then, not long after dusk, it transforms into a street food paradise. This market is named after Baba Maneknath, who is credited with assisting Ahmed Shah I in the construction of the Bhadra Fort. The bullion market in this city is touted as the second largest in India. Rani No Hajiro (Queen's tomb) is located to the east of Manek Chowk, and the back entryway that leads to this landmark is known for its gorgeous square printed textures and appealing silver jewellery.
44. Thyagraya Nagar, Chennai- There are a plethora of saree and jewellery stores to choose from. There are also several other businesses offering old style utensils in line. It's a really crowded and busy location. There is a lot of negotiating to be done, especially if you speak the native language.
45. The Maati Centre, Guwahati- The Maati Center is a popular marketplace that promotes the work of emerging and independent local artists. The Maati Center, located in a relatively calm part of the bustling city of Guwahati, has long been a favourite of locals and visitors alike.
46. Bada Bazar, Gwalior- Bada Bazaar, also known as Jiyaji Chowk Bazaar, is one of Gwalior's most famous street markets. It has every type of store and, because it is a flea market, you can purchase goods quickly. From clothing to footwear to home needs, there's something for everyone. The market is often bustling and crowded, so plan your visit carefully. The majority of the historical landmarks are close by, so don't miss out on a quick glance.
47. Spice Market, Kochi- The Cochin Spice Market is a must-see on any shopping trip to Kochi. All of the spices, such as cardamom, anise, cloves, cinnamon, bay leaves, and pepper, are available at the market. Another well-known item marketed here is cashew nuts. Even as you go by, you can smell the flavours!
48. Chowk Bazar, Bhopal- The Chowk region is distinguished by a modest collection of historic havelis such as Shaukat Mahal and Sardar Manzil, as well as a few old mosques, and was once known for zarda, purdah, garda, and namarda (tobacco, cover, dust, and eunuchs). Aside from that, there are columns of shops and stores along the little back lanes here that are great for purchasing traditional art.