Remember the days when going out for shopping would be an all-day affair, looking for garments, jewellery, shoes, and so on, and after that hog on some street food as we felt drained and depleted? Then we would go back home, dead and drained, weighed down with bags in our hands and a huge smile all over our face. Those were the days! Today, although shopping malls and online shopping have taken over, they is still no match to the excellent traditional markets of India. From garments to spices and adornments, these markets offer you astonishing stuff at the best prices. Let’s time travel back into the past, and traipse around the ancient markets of India!
Here is a list of the best oldest markets of India, which were, are and will always continue to capture us shopaholics’ hearts any time, any day. Let’s take a tour!
- Khari Baoli, Delhi
This street in Delhi is Asia’s biggest wholesale spice market. Delighting customers since seventeenth century, the market offers all the sorts of flavors, dry fruits, herbs and other food items. It houses a decent assortment of organic products also. One of the most antiquated spice markets on the planet, the Khari Baoli is situated close to another legendary market of Delhi, Chandni Chowk and is doubtlessly a gourmet’s paradise. So if you are flying to Delhi exclusively to explore the olden side of Delhi and its markets, then right after you make a landing in one of those Chennai to Delhi flights, head straight to Khari Baoli. 
- Chor Bazaar, Mumbai
As the name proposes, the market is acclaimed for offering second hand products. It is in South Mumbai close to Bhendi Bazaar. According to a legend about this market, once the violin of Queen Victoria disappeared which was later found in the Chor Bazaar (Thieves Market). This is the means by which the market got its name. This market is acclaimed for offering old, vintage articles, Victorian furniture, spare parts for cars and so forth. It is a popular landmark in Mumbai, and is as dear to Mumbai, as Chandni Chowk is to Delhi. 
- Laad Bazaar, Hyderabad
This customary old market situated close to Char Minaar, Hyderabad, is renowned for the extensive assortment of shimmering bangles, in all possible colors and materials. You can likewise find some marvelous semi-precious gems and pearl adornments in Laad Bazaar. The restricted, narrow market doesn’t permit rickshaws and autos to enter, so be prepared to walk while you shop. What’s more, be sure that you have your belongings secured to avoid theft, as well as use your bargaining skills here to the max. 
- Johari Bazaar, Jaipur
Sprawling right outside the Hawa Mahal, the Johari Bazaar is the biggest jewelry market in Jaipur. It is popular for traditional Rajasthani adornments. Jewelry made of gold, silver, emeralds, precious stones can be bought here. Kundan jewelry, which is made in an extraordinary way is, likewise exceptionally well known. In the old times, women of the royal families used to purchase adornments from this very market. 
- Chandni Chowk
The most lauded landmark and one of the famous tourist places in Delhi, Chandni Chowk has been standing tall for over three centuries now! From garments and jewelry, to hardware and food items, you name it, and you get it here.
Now, is there any match to the experience and joy of shopping that you get while trotting around these traditional markets of India? Definitely not! We love these markets, and so does everybody! So, for a change, this weekend, go shopping “physically” at your nearest traditional market, and then feel the satisfaction that you get!
