Bazaar: Delhi & Rajasthan Shopping Guide

Two of India’s most culturally and historically rich cities, Delhi and Rajasthan are unique metropolises within the vast and diverse country. Of particular interest is the legacy of the Mughal Empire in both cities, which ruled over Northern India from 16th Century to the 18th Century. The influence is felt in a number of different ways, from its distinct architectural legacy to its unique cultural identity. Craftsmanship in the cities is artistically rich and traditional, with the arts of gem cutting and calligraphy particularly significant

Main Shopping Areas

Jodhpur

A major city in the state of Rajasthan, Jodhpur is known for its plethora of impressive palaces and temples. A beautiful city, which has cemented itself as a major tourism destination and filming location, Jodhpur is also a major textiles hub in northern India. It also boasts a unique cuisine. There are a number of restaurants, markets and stores worth seeking out in this singularly Northern Indian city in between glimpsing the beautiful historical landmarks.

Jaipur

The largest city in Rajasthan, Jaipur is one of the most significant tourism sites in the country, forming a part of the famous Golden Triangle circuit with Delhi and Agra. This is mainly due to being the home of major sites Jantar Mantar and the Amer Fort as well as its close proximity and the natural beauty of the tropical rainforest. It has a rich heritage of craftsmanship for which it is internationally renowned. There are a wealth of different disciplines including gem making, leather ware and pottery.

Main Shopping Markets

Chandni Chowk

Located in the heart of Old Delhi, Chandni Chowk is a hugely impressive market a short distance from the Red Fort. Chandni Chowk is a bustling, frantic marketplace and the best place in town to immerse oneself in traditional culture. The marketplace contains a number of smaller markets, each with its own unique specialisations. The Nai Sarak specialises in book sellers, the Chor Bazaar offers a wealth of different goods at startlingly low prices while the Chhatta Chowk specialises in jewellery and clothing.

Specialty Stores

Rikhi Ram

A musical instrument store in Delhi, RIkhi Ram is a great local treasure. Manufacturing their own instruments, Rikhi Ram is well known for its high-quality selection of sitars, a Mughal instrument dating back to the 13th Century. The instrument became popularised in modern times through the innovations of Indian musical icon Ravi Shankar and cemented in Western popular music after bands such as The Beatles and The Rolling Stones implemented it in their songs.

The Gem Palace

Jaipur is well-known for its many gem workshops and craftsmen. The most well-known and high-end outlet to purchase these magnificent stones is the Gem Palace. Open since 1852, the Gem Palace now has locations around the world. Its original and flagship store is in Jaipur however and it remains an essential destination-the best place in town to procure the iconic precious stones.

Destination – India