Varanasi, also known as Banaras, is one of India's most ancient and beautiful cities, revered as a major Hindu pilgrimage destination. Many visitors come to cleanse their sins in the holy Ganges River. Known as the City of Light, it is also regarded as one of the world's most remarkable cities. The ghats, where people often stroll to witness the sunrise over the Ganga, draw countless tourists each year to experience the city's charm.
As one of the oldest cities, Varanasi still features historic buildings that enhance its old-world appeal. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the famous shopping spots in Varanasi, where you can indulge in retail therapy while embracing the city's rich cultural heritage.
# Vishwanath Lane Vishwanath Lane market is always bustling with both locals and tourists. The stalls lining both sides of the road offer an array of items, including beautiful sarees, bangles, and dupattas. This market is also popular for textile shopping, and visitors can find various toy stores, including those selling intricately carved wooden toys. Many local artisans sell their crafts here, making it a great place for bargain shopping.
# Zindagi Jewellery Store For jewelry lovers, Zindagi Jewellery Store is a must-visit. Varanasi is dotted with small jewelry shops, and this one stands out with its stunning designs, both modern and traditional, in gold and silver. An added bonus is that a portion of the store’s profits supports social causes, including women’s empowerment. The kind staff and the store’s commitment to social good make it a top recommendation.
# Rajan Silk Market Varanasi is renowned for its Banarasi sarees, and Rajan Silk Market specializes in offering stylish and trendy sarees at wholesale prices. If you're looking to buy a Banarasi saree, this is the place to go, as these sarees can be costly elsewhere. You can also find fashionable Banarasi dupattas here, which are currently in trend.
# Lahurabir Lahurabir is another fantastic shopping destination in Varanasi. This area is home to various stores selling everything from home appliances to clothing and jewelry. Visitors can also witness the silk-weaving process firsthand. The market is popular for buying costumes and junk jewelry, making it a great spot for a diverse shopping experience.
# Vinayak Plaza If you’re a fan of branded shopping, Vinayak Plaza is the perfect place for you. This shopping mall offers designer clothing at great prices, alongside various other amenities like food courts, movie theaters, and branded showrooms. It’s also an excellent spot for window shopping or hanging out with friends, making it popular among the youth of Varanasi.
# Godowlia Market Godowlia Market is a must-visit for anyone in Varanasi. It’s always busy with both locals and tourists. Lined with a variety of shops, this market specializes in household products, including decor materials, hardware, and clothing. It’s a great place for budget-friendly home decor shopping.
# The Aroma Garden For a unique shopping experience, head to Aroma Garden, which offers high-quality items at affordable prices. This shop is popular among locals and tourists alike, especially for its natural incense and fresh, packed date palms, which are used for Aarti rituals on the banks of the Ganga or for home prayers.
# Gyanvapi Gyanvapi is one of the busiest shopping locations, known for its proximity to the famous Gyanvapi Mosque, built by Emperor Aurangzeb. The market surrounding the mosque is famous for its shawls, Hindu deity masks, bangles, and unique lampshades. The quality of the shawls and the distinct colors available make this market a must-see for souvenir hunters.
# Sharma Toys Emporium If you're looking for unique toys and souvenirs for kids, Sharma Toys Emporium is the perfect destination. The shop boasts a diverse collection of new and antique toys, including items once owned by royalty. The store's selection, which is reasonably priced, will surely impress anyone looking for something special.
# Dal Mandi MarketDal Mandi Market is one of the most popular destinations in Varanasi for wholesale clothing shopping. If you're looking for high-quality items at reasonable prices, this is the place to visit.
The market offers a wide range of well-designed, high-quality clothing, including beautiful and stylish salwar suits. Both stitched and unstitched options are available. As one of the largest markets in Varanasi, it is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the city’s fashion offerings.