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Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is not only known for its rich history, delectable street food, and literary heritage but also for its bustling shopping markets. From traditional handicrafts to modern fashion, Kolkata offers a unique shopping experience that caters to every taste and budget.
Whether you’re a local resident or a traveller exploring the city, here are seven best shopping markets in Kolkata that Thing2do recommends for an unforgettable retail therapy session:
1New Market (Hogg Market)
Image Credits: The Telegraph
New Market, fondly known as SS Hogg Market, started back in 1874 as Kolkata’s first municipal market. Originally aimed at serving British residents who preferred to keep to themselves, today it’s a vibrant melting pot of cultures. With a whopping 3,000 shops, New Market isn’t just a hit with locals but also draws in tourists, including folks from Bangladesh, especially Dhaka and Chittagong. You name it, New Market’s got it—from clothes, crockery, and toys to books, jewelry, and even pet supplies. It’s a treasure trove for chocolate lovers, shoe addicts, and anyone planning a party. And if you’re up for something unique, you can snag Bandel cheese, Kerala coffee beans, Arabian dry fruits, local papads, spices, exotic fruits, and goodies from the famous Nahoum & Sons, a century-old Jewish bakery. Just like Sarojini Nagar in Delhi, New Market is all about bargaining. So, roll up your sleeves and haggle your way to some great finds!
2Gariahat Market
Image Credit: The Telegraph
Gariahat Market is a shopper’s delight sprawling along Gariahat Road. It’s famous for its cotton sarees and vintage gold jewellery, plus loads of artificial bling, hair accessories, clothes, shoes, hats, purses, and even pottery. Despite the whole online shopping craze, this place still buzzes and you will also find veggie stalls selling fresh greens, dates, and jaggery. If you’re into decorating your place on a budget, they’ve got furniture, frames, knick-knacks, and potted plants that won’t break the bank. And let’s talk food! You’ve got spicy puff rice from the “muri walas,” tangy puchkas that’ll tingle your taste buds, kebabs, rolls, and sweets from those famous sweet shops. Oh, and remember, it’s all about bargaining hard and checking your stuff before you walk away happy!
3College Street
Image Credit: Facts.net
If you’re a book lover, College Street—famously known as Boi Para (Book Town)—is your ultimate paradise in Kolkata. This historic street is lined with numerous bookstores and stalls offering everything from rare editions to academic textbooks on every conceivable subject. More than just a market, College Street is a cultural institution where intellectuals, students, and bibliophiles come together to immerse themselves in literature. The atmosphere here is steeped in Kolkata’s literary legacy, drawing visitors to its iconic landmarks like the Coffee House and the famous Putiram for their delectable kachoris. Home to prestigious institutions like Presidency University and the University of Calcutta, along with several other colleges, College Street is a must-visit for anyone passionate about books, academia, and the vibrant cultural heritage of Kolkata.
4Kolkata Mishti Hub
Image Credit: Tripadvisor
Bengalis are famous for their sweet cravings, and Kolkata’s Mishti Hub takes this love affair to the next level—a whole mall dedicated solely to sweets, thanks to the government of West Bengal. This sweet haven brings together eleven top-notch sweet shops under one roof, each offering its specialities that capture the essence of Bengali indulgence. At Mishti Hub, you can’t miss K. C. Das, where you can dive into Rosho Malancho, Mango Doi, and their innovative Flavoured Roshogolla. Banchcharam is a must-visit for Abar Khabo, Baked Roshogolla, and their irresistible Jamun Cake. Gupta Brothers serve up heavenly Mango Sandesh, Rabri, and their signature Gulab Jamun. At Balaram Mullick and Radharaman Mullick, indulge in delights like Mud Cake, Blueberry Doi, and decadent Chocolate Sandesh.
5Hatibagan Market
Image Credit: OkCredit
Hatibagan Market has been around since its likely naming in 1756 during Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah’s capture of Calcutta. It’s a massive market with winding lanes that practically takes you through history, literature, theatre, and of course, cinema vibes at every turn. If you’re looking for deals, it’s a go-to spot for families, but brace yourself for some serious bargaining—they tend to quote higher than they should. This century-old market is famous for Bengal’s silk and tnaant sarees, and it owes much of its bustling trade to the cinema and theatre buffs who’ve been flocking here for ages.
6Chandni Market
Image Credit: The Times of India
If you’re on the hunt for electronics at dirt-cheap prices, Chandni Market is your go-to spot. It’s speculated that the market was named after Delhi’s Chandni Chowk as a nod to the Mughals, whose capital was in Delhi at the time. Besides offering a wide range of computer software and hardware, Chandni Market also boasts an impressive array of lights and other home decor items. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or just looking to spruce up your home, this bustling market has something for everyone. Walking through its narrow lanes filled with shops and warehouses is an adventure in itself, reflecting the city’s dynamic commercial spirit.
7South City Mall
Image Credit: The Times Of India
For a modern shopping experience with all your favourite international brands and luxury boutiques, South City Mall is the place to be in Kolkata. Located in South Kolkata, this upscale mall has everything you need, from Zara and Pantaloons to Tommy Hilfiger, Shoppers Stop, Skechers, BIBA, and Fabindia. Apart from high-end fashion, you will also find gourmet dining venues, and fun entertainment options all under one roof. Whether you’re looking to splurge on designer labels, enjoy a delicious meal, or relax with a movie, South City Mall provides a top-notch, cosmopolitan experience for every kind of shopper.
The bustling by-lanes of Kolkata offer everything under the sun, from dirt-cheap bargains to glammed-up shopping experiences. Kolkata truly has it all, blending the charm of traditional markets with the allure of modern malls, making it a shopper’s paradise.
So, next time you find yourself in Kolkata, don’t forget to explore these Kolkata markets. And for more great recommendations, be sure to follow Things2do™
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