Kolkata, also known as the "City of Joy," is rich in history and a paradise for shopaholics. The city is full of vibrant markets and offers several options to cater to the budget and taste of every visitor.
Though visiting the shopping malls seems time-saving and convenient, why not explore the local markets of this lively city this time? In this article, you can find the famous shopping places of Kolkata that you would love to visit during your tour of the cultural hub of West Bengal!
7 Best Shopping Places in Kolkata
A visit to the different shopping places in Kolkata can be enjoyable and advantageous as this place has too much to offer. Also, there is nothing that you will not find in this place. Above all, most of the items that you will find in the markets of Kolkata are available at an affordable price. If you also want to witness a wonderful shopping experience in Kolkata, below are the seven best shopping places in Kolkata you can shop at:
New Market
It is one of the oldest markets in Kolkata and is famous for the variety of shopping items available there. You can find more than 2000 stalls in the market, and you will love to buy the innovative and eye-catching stuff available there. Also, it is one of the cheapest shopping places in Kolkata. This place is a treat for bargainers, and you will find it highly crowded in the evening.
- Location: Lindsay Street, Free School Street
- Timings: Monday to Friday, open from 10 am to 8 pm; Saturday (open from 10 am to 7 pm); remain Closed on Sunday.
- Things To Buy: Clothes, Household Items, Bags, Jewelry, And Eateries
Gariahat Market
The Gariahat Market is an ideal place for street shopping in Kolkata. The market is present along the road, and you will find shops on both sides selling a massive variety of items, including clothes, electronics, and jewelry. Along with the big shops, several makeshift tents are also present where you can buy the items at lower prices. The views of different items hanging outside the shops are memorable. You will also find food stalls and restaurants where you can enjoy the local food.
- Location: Gariahat near Kalighat (Metro Station)
- Timings: From Monday to Saturday, open from 11 am to 8 pm, Closed on Sunday
- Things To Buy: Wedding Wear, Sarees, Jewelry, Western Wear, Footwear, Dress Materials, And Accessories
Bara Bazaar
The famous shopping market in Kolkata is popular for its vibrancy and variety. The market is similar to the Chandni Chowk of Delhi. Here, you can find everything, including cosmetics, toys, and other unique items, at the wholesale rate. Remember to be cautious about the price and originality of your purchase items. Also, remember to taste the street food when you are there.
- Location: Barabazar Market
- Timings: Open at 11:30 am and closes at 7:30 pm; Closed on Sunday
- Things To Buy: Clothes, Ethnic Wear, Festive Decorations, Puja Items, Daily Essentials, And Household Essentials
College Street
Once you have reached there, you will find only books as far as your sight goes. The country's largest book market is well-known for selling rare volumes of books at cheap rates. Plus, it is also the world's largest second-hand book market. It is said that if you have not found a book in College Street, it means that it never existed. Also, don't forget to visit the Indian Coffee House, a heritage café; it will be a treat.
- Location: College Square
- Timings: From Monday to Saturday, open at 9 am and closes at 9 pm, Closed on Sunday
- Things To Buy: Old Books, Journals, Novels, Academic Textbooks, And Vintage Books
Hatibagan Market
Hatibagan means elephant garden, and it is one of the oldest markets in Kolkata, which used to sell pets. Unfortunately, the major part of this market was destroyed by fire, and shopping here became almost impossible. But, now that the market has gained popularity again, it is back in business. There you will find a few shops that have been working over the last century. Along with the silk sarees, the other highlight of this market is the Star Theatre, where you can watch movies at lower prices.
- Location: Shri Aurobindo Sarani Road, Manicktala, Khanna
- Timings: 10 am to 10 pm daily
- Things To Buy: Silk And Cotton Sarees
Dakshinapan
Though the open-air market is famous for handicrafts, it is also one of the cheapest places to purchase clothes. The tourists can also buy the gifts and return them to their loved ones. The good part is that the government runs this market. Most items come from the whole country and are available at fixed prices. So, if you don't want to bargain, this will be an ideal place for shopping. You will find a tea shop near this market where twenty different fruit tea flavors are available. So, end your shopping there with a refreshing cup of tea at that shop!
- Location: Ghariahat Road
- Timings: 11 am to 7:30 pm (Tuesday to Saturday). Opens on Monday at 2 pm and Closes on Sunday.
- Things To Buy: Handicrafts, Jute Products, and Tribal Antiques
Chowringhee Road
It is an ideal place for shopping for Terracotta items, which is also a specialty of Kolkata. You can find both traditional and funky stuff here. Before making any purchase, visit the market first to get the one you like. If you are good at bargaining, you will make the best deal. There, you will feel the richness of the craft.
- Location: Chowringhee Road
- Timings: It Depends On Vendors, But Preferable Timings Are In The Evening
- Things To Buy: Terracotta items
Conclusion:
Kolkata is known not only for its delicious cuisine, vibrant culture, and rich history but also for being one of the best places to shop in India. Therefore, your visit to Kolkata will remain incomplete if you miss visiting the city's vibrant markets. Remember that while exploring the local markets, you will find a unique collection of sarees, conch shell bangles, solapith handicrafts, jute products, Kalighat paintings, and Putul dolls. Still, you will also get a chance to connect with the locals. So, if you are also planning to go shopping in Kolkata during your next trip, remember to visit the seven best shopping places in Kolkata mentioned here!
