Since last couple of weeks there has been a crisis for space in newspaper supplements because of the BIG SALE ads which were clamoring for eyeballs. From apparel & clothing brands to footwear, home décor brands and even mobile stores were on discounts. Choose any brand, any shopping mall, any market…discounts were all over.
Every weekend, every market was flooded with ‘unlimited’ people. I was so thrilled seeing so many people shopping even in these so called ‘recession’ times. It showed that the spending confidence of the Indian consumers are not at all dwindling but rather going strong, which is a very good sign for the economy as well.
Every year this time around shopping becomes highlight of the season. Not only because of the sale offers and discounts but also because of some of the great shopping melas which happen this time.The Surajkund Crafts Mela which happens every year around early February or the Patiala Heritage Festival organized during mid-February every year adds to the excitement of the even the non-shopoholics.
While I was observing the city shopping trends, one of my friend was busy putting together the must-visit markets/ shopping attractions of India. Here’s a list of destinations which are also famous for shopping:
1. Srinagar – Famous for Kashmiri carpets, shawls. One of the main markets there is the Floating market which you must visit when in Srinagar.
2. Goa – The flea market at Anjuna Beach is a hit among all tourists and residents alike. The must picks from there are the floral dresses, chappals and goan handicrafts. There’s also a good selection of clothes in Indonesian styles, Nepali goods, fancy jewellery, semi-precious stones etc that’s almost every shoppers’ delight.
3. Shillong – The locals markets of Shillong are flooded with variety of goods. Clothing fabrics, much cheaper yet well-fitted jeans, leather shoes and accessories, North-east special fabrics & shawls etc dominate the markets.
4. Jaipur – Shopping in Jaipur could be an electrifying and wonderful experience if only you buy from the right places/shops. Jaipur is famous for its’Bandhni’ fabrics, handicrafts, jootis & other items made from camel leather. Johri bazaar, situated in the heart of the city, is famous for the precious stones and jewellery.
5. Hyderabad – Some of the major markets in the city are Abids, Nampally, Begum Bazar, and Laad Bazar. The city’s Laad Bazaar is famous for the pearls and jewellery which excites residents and tourists shoppers alike. Some other related items merchandised in the city include brass ware, Nirmal paintings, Kondapalli toys and Bidri ware.
These are markets which you must visit when you are traveling to that place or you plan to buy that special thing.
Till my next blog, happy shopping!
