Indore’s Ultimate Shopping Guide To The Best Markets And Local Finds

Indore is the largest city of Madhya Pradesh and is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. Situated on the banks of the Khan River, the city is a centre of culture, commerce and education. Its architectural landscape reflects the legacy of the Holkar dynasty with grand structures like Rajwada Palace and the Lalbagh Palace some of the most visited places in Indore. The city's strategic location, infrastructure and business-friendly environment combine to make it an attractive destination for investors and entrepreneurs, too. It should come as no surprise then that Indore is a buyers' paradise where one can purchase items from jewellery to apparel that suit every taste and budget.

Here are some best places to shop in Indore and what you should buy from your trip to the city.

Sarafa Bazaar

This is a jewellery market and street food hub that is located in central Indore. It is one of those Indian markets that sells jewellery during the day and whips up delicious street food at night. The market has two sub-markets: the Bada Sarafa Bazaar and the Chhota Sarafa Bazaar. You can purchase gems and gold and silver jewellery gems while indulging in bhutte ka kees, dahi vadas, jalebis and allu chole tikkis when you’re hungry. The lively atmosphere, reasonable prices and delicious cuisine make the Sarafa Bazaar a must-visit place for every food lover (and shopaholic).

MT Cloth Market

The Maharaja Tukojirao (MT) Holkar Cloth Market is one of the oldest shopping places in Indore as it was established during the reign of the Holkars in 1922. Shops in this market are mostly set up by manufacturers and wholesalers, so you can buy a variety of items in bulk at wholesale prices. Go all out on buying a range of kurtis, suits, saris etc. in impressive designs, colours and styles. The best part about shopping here is that you can buy beautiful clothes at lower prices than in other places. Make sure you use your bargaining skills while shopping as it can help you save a fair amount of money.

Heritage Market

The Heritage Market is located in central Indore and is known for its collections of expensive brands and showrooms where people can buy the latest designer apparel. Whether you are looking for Puma sports gear or Peter England formal shirts, you will find their latest collections here. While you may not be able to bargain in these branded showrooms, the quality you will get here is worth every penny. As a bonus, shopaholics can purchase handloom and handicraft items to decorate their homes with or to gift to loved ones.

Tibet Market

Indore's Tibetan Market has its roots in the Tibetan refugee community who settled in various parts of India. It is a great place to buy items that are reminiscent of mountain communities, such as woollen clothes, leather jackets, mufflers, and many types of stoles and scarves. It is in winter that the market comes to life. At very reasonable prices, you can find wonderful handmade items made by Tibetan refugees. The shops also offer Tibetan carpets and rugs, paintings, and Tibetan silver jewellery. The most popular objects are Buddha statues and paintings.

Kothari Market

The Kothari Market is a popular shopping hub in Indore. Located in the heart of the city, it offers a wide range of products, making it a favourite among locals and visitors. Here you can buy apparel for all genders and sizes, jewellery, shoes, bags, belts and home decor items (like furniture, curtains, bedding etc). There are also electronic devices and gift items that you can purchase, as well as traditional, casual and formal attire at affordable prices.

Special Items To Shop For In Indore

Maheshwari Sari

These handloom saris are famous for their geometric and floral patterns. They were initially made of pure silk but with time, cotton threads were incorporated into the weft. You can find them in local shops like the Shree Mahalaxmi Vastra Bhandar on Jail Road, Aveesha's Boutique on MR 9 Road, Kesariya Nisha at Lala Banarasilal Dawar Marg and online.

Handicrafts

You will find local handicraft products in the Heritage Bazaar and Topkhana Bazaar. These markets store handmade items like earthen pots, jute-based items and bamboo products, among others.