As well as being famous for extravagant palaces, ancient forts, enormous sand dunes and vibrant culture, Rajasthan is also known for colourful and lively bazaars, which draw in a huge number of visitors. The display of traditional items, sounds of cheerful calls and bargaining, and the bustling vibe adds to the uniqueness of the bazaars. Here’s the rundown of the most colourful markets in the Land of Kings.
Hathi Pol Bazar
Market
Hathi Pol Bazar in Udaipur is a magnet for serious shoppers. This bazaar entices with a wide selection of authentic and traditional products, including colourful footwear (juttis or mojaris), handicrafts, textiles, Rajasthani quilts, tie and dye fabrics and ethnic home decor items. It is, however, especially known for its Rajasthani miniature paintings, which showcase the local artistry at its best. As a bazar of artsy and traditional types, there is no dearth of fabulous finds. Don’t forget to try to bargain!
Tripolia Bazar
Tripolia Bazar is famed for its exquisite lac jewellery and bangles. In addition, a wide range of embroidered Bandhini tie and dyed fabrics, brassware, designer carpets, rugs, ironware, and several traditional items are on offer. Even if you’re not in the mood to shop, just take a stroll and soak up the local atmosphere, complete with sights of people from all walks of life and the voices of haggling.
Johari Bazaar
Johari Bazaar is a perfect place for jewellery shopping of all kinds. Popular with both locals and tourists, this legendary bazaar is filled to the brim with shops selling precious and semi-precious stones and gems, and handmade jewellery, all at reasonable prices. Traditional ethnic clothes are also available. If you’re looking for authentic jewels, this is the place! There are several restaurants and food stalls lining the bazaar, so you do not have to stray too far to be met with lip-smacking Rajasthani fare.
Bapu Bazar
Bapu Bazar is a one-stop shopping spot in Jaipur for all traditional Rajasthani items. This bazar boasts everything from Rajasthani textiles to accessories, handicrafts, footwear, perfumes and clothes, so you’re almost certain to come back with something. It’s also a great place for taking in the view of the Pink City, thanks to its central location. And, be sure to bargain! http://instagram.com/p/BdCzHeMjJfG/
Sadar Bazaar
Market
Sadar Bazaar in Jaisalmer is a market full of character, where you can catch a glimpse of the local life and culture, while browsing a vast selection of items. You’ll find everything in the thronging streets of Sadar Bazaar, including paintings, souvenirs, handicrafts, jewellery, sandals made of camel leather, wooden items, carpet, traditional bags, shawls, silver ornamental items, quilts and much more, all at wholesale prices. The bustling atmosphere adds to the charm and unique experience!
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Nai Sarak
Nai Sarak is one of the busiest markets in Jodhpur and specializes in Bandhani or bandhej (tie and dye clothes). The patterns, prints and designs are vibrant and colourful that will surely impel you to pick up one for yourself. There are also other traditional items on offer, such as turbans, leather goods, sarees and much more.
Kote Gate
Market
The Kote Gate is a gateway to Bikaner, brimming with roadside stalls and shops selling traditional items. From local handicrafts and miniature paintings to accessories, khadi items, camel leather products, woodcrafts, utensils and some bits and bobs, expect a plethora of beautiful gift inspo or souvenirs. The uniqueness of this market is that it has retained its old-world charm with ancient architecture and bustling vibe.
Bada Bazaar
The Bada Bazaar is a must-see for any visitor to Udaipur. It’s the spot to find everything at inexpensive prices – traditional clothes and footwear, jewellery, antiques, leather goods and several other authentic items. Besides, restaurants are another attraction of this bazaar. So, after you have had your fill of retail therapy, you can head to the one of the many restaurants lining the bazaar and gorge on some Rajasthani cuisine.
Pansari Bazaar
It is the oldest bazaar in Jaisalmer that has retained its cultural and historic appeal, which is evident in the assortment of wares on offer. Ethnic wear, old handicrafts, traditional footwear (mojari), wall hangings and colourful Rajasthani puppets, are just some of the treasures to be found here. Along with shopping, there are delicious local eats at every nook, which makes it a win-win experience.
Sarafa Bazaar
Pushkar‘s most popular and vibrant market, Sarafa Bazaar is packed with locals and tourists alike on any given day. Rajasthani clothes, hand embroidery items, leather goods, shiny bead bangles, idols of gods and goddesses, wall hangings, handcrafted artworks and accessories are among the incredibly beautiful items you’ll find along the shops.
Pro tip:Bargaining is the name of the game here, so hone the skills!
Mahatma Gandhi Road
Traditional Rajasthani products and delicious eats is what MG Road in Bikaner is all about. There is a wide range of authentic and unique items to choose from that vary from signature kundan jewellery and traditional accessories to textiles, handicrafts, footwear and bric-a-brac. Spend some time here rifling through beautiful wares to get some real bargains. You’re sure to find wonderful mementos of Rajasthan!
Poonam is a freelance writer based in India. Her work has appeared in Time Out, Matador Network, Fodor's, Discover India Magazine, and various travel pubs. When she's not working to pay the bills, she spends her time rolling around somewhere clicking random things, planning her next adventure or binge watching. Find her on Instagram at @poonam.binayak
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