From wholesale markets and retail markets, to landa bazaars (second-hand bazaars and haat (regular produce markets) - with wares ranging from the incredibly specialised to the unbelievably broad - markets in India are a shopper’s paradise. Many can be found in the travel guidebooks, but don’t write them off as tourist hot spots; they may be busy, but are just as full of locals as travellers. As the historic centre of town and city life, the market is the place to go to get in touch with the beating heart of the community. This list of our five favourite markets highlights some of the most vibrant, historically significant and interesting of the bunch.
Ima Keithel, the ‘Mother’s Market’
Whether you’re seeking to support the women of India, experience a one-of-a-kind market (with over 500 years of history) or find bespoke craftsmanship to immortalise your trip, Ima Keithel is the place to go. Starting with a few stalls in the 16th century, the ‘Mother’s Market’ has grown into a market of thousands of married women selling their wares. In 1533 AD, the punishing Lallub-Kaba labour system forcibly removed the men from the Meitie communities to work or fight far away. Consequently, the women of the community took steps to support themselves, resulting in the birth of Ima Keithel Market. The economic restrictions imposed by the British colonial forces put a strain on all markets in India, however Ima Keithel not only survived this but became a symbol of the Nupi Lan (‘Women’s War’), a female-led revolt against the policies. The British attempted to retaliate by selling the market’s buildings to foreigners but were unsuccessful. Browse the lively food, clothing, utensils and handicraft stalls available here, while appreciating the market’s status as a symbol of equality and survival in the face of repression.
Johari Bazaar
Magpies should not pass up a chance to visit Jaipur’s historic marketplace, famous for its extensive collection of jewellery. Located in one of the most beautiful and historic districts in Jaipur, the market should be the first stop for anyone in search of a unique gift. Window shoppers will be treated to a display that far outshines that of any high-end jewellery store, featuring both cutting-edge and traditional jewellery. The history of Indian jewellery dates back to the Indus Valley civilisation and plays an important role in Indian culture, both in general and within the specific cultural groups that different styles are associated with. Today, traditional techniques create elaborate and recognisable styles made out of gemstone, metal, enamel, and lacquer. Like most markets in India, Johari Bazaar is a jack-of-all-trades and also offers a few food stalls, as well as traditional textile shops.
Kannauj market
Scent and taste are widely regarded as the most powerful engines of memory and offer an excellent means of preserving your experience of a different culture. Kannauj, the ‘Perfume Capital of India’, is the place to purchase scented memories of your trip. Located on the banks of the River Ganges, the market offers an explosion of fragrances created through various traditional methods. Any scented product, from essential oils to candles and perfumes, can be found here.
Dadar Flower Market
Flowers are among the sweetest of life’s temporary joys, and a seasoned traveller will appreciate the seasonal bloom of rare species for sale at the Dadar Flower Market, also known as a Phool Gully (Flower Road). Keen photographers will enjoy the opportunity to take beautiful pictures and immortalise the flowers in photographs, as with the many other once-in-a-lifetime experiences included in your trip. We recommend arriving early if you wish to have your pick of the fresh wares and avoid the bustling crowds of Mumbai. As one of the many wholesale markets in India, you can purchase flowers at Phool Gully at a significant discount compared to other retailers if you buy in bulk.
Chor Bazaar
Originally called Shor Bazaar, due to the British mispronunciation of the name ‘chor’, this is one of the largest flea markets in India. The word ‘chor’ means ‘thief’ in Marathi and Hindi, and the name may point to the prominent presence of stolen goods at the market. Local legend decrees that anything you lose in Mumbai can be found in the Chor Bazaar. Keep your wits about you to ensure you don’t get the chance to test the truth of this folk tale. With over 150 years of history, the antique market is vintage down to its roots; trinkets, electronics, fashion, bronze and brass-ware, and far more are for sale in the crowded streets, and anyone with a taste for the unusual and eclectic will revel in the offerings. While the authenticity of the antiques and brand name items for sale may not always be reliable, with a bit of confidence, you can haggle your way into a definite bargain.