Jaipur, Rajasthan’s capital, is also known as the ‘Pink City’. It is famous for exemplifying the best of its culture at its markets. From handicrafts, marble & sandalwood carvings, figures carved from sandstone, Kundan & Polki jewellery (made with precious and semi-precious stones), colourful textiles to blue pottery, the marketplaces at Rajasthan will give you plenty of reasons to carry home suitcases full of amazing souvenirs, clothing & collectables. The following list contains a number of the best shopping markets in Jaipur.
Best Cloth Markets in Jaipur
1. Johari Bazaar
Traditional Turbans at a Market in Jaipur
This marketplace at Jaipur is embedded in its history, and is, in quaint fashion, painted pink. The bazaar is famous for the jewellery sold there, made of gold and silver, diamonds, with the occasional emerald. Handcrafted Kundan jewellery is a favourite of shoppers. This jewellery is quintessential to Rajasthani traditions. You might also find something to match your new-found gems, like a saree or a lehenga, either tie-and-dye or hand embroidered.
2. Tripolia Bazar
Bedspreads at Tripolia Bazar
Situated between Manak Chowk and Chhoti Chaupar, the Tripolia Bazar at Jaipur is famous for precious stones and locally made carpets. You will also find iron and brassware here. Carry home a piece of Jaipur’s artisan history by buying some lac bangles. However, come prepared to bargain or don’t try to buy anything.
3. Hawa Mahal Bazaar
Clothes at Hawa Mahal Bazaar
Hawa Mahal is a famous palace in Jaipur. A literal translation would be, “The Palace of Wind”. Part of the activities offered by the palace is an afternoon at the Hawa Mahal marketplace where the offerings include jewellery and sarees and other knick-knacks of Rajasthani culture. You will enjoy yourself here immensely. Do visit the palace as well.
4. Gaurav Tower
Gaurav Tower
A shopping mall, Gaurav Tower is one of the most incredible places to shop at in the city of Jaipur. After an entire day of shopping, the mall allows for a sit-down meal and has provision for activities & entertainment for families. The shopping mall consists of nearly a hundred stores, with a mix of international and local brands.
5. Bapu Bazaar
Very Colourful Rajasthani Traditional Fashion
Bapu Bazaar is famous for the variety of Rajasthani products that can be found here. This includes Mojari shoes and leather products made of camel hide. Alongside these, there are stone-carvings honed from marble and sandstone, as well as textiles. If you’re hunting for souvenirs for friends and family, Bapu Bazaar is a fine place to start.
6. Nehru Bazaar
Embroidered footwear at Nehru Bazaar
Find the blue pottery of Rajasthan at Nehru Bazaar. You will also find ready-made garments as well as beautiful handicrafts to fill up the display cabinets at home. Other interesting buys are footwear, leather bags and souvenirs. If you persevere, you might find a perfume-seller as well. This bazaar on MI Road is full of many objects you could put in a box wrapped in some paper to give friends and family. They are sure to be delighted.
Jaipur is a beautiful city and a wonderful place to shop at. You can return home and open the far too heavy suitcase and rediscover a segment of the Rajasthani culture, a piece of India’s history right in your hand. Welcome to Jaipur, literally the shopaholic’s Shangri-La, as much as it is the mecca of history buffs. Enjoy the shopping spree.
