It’s often said that if Jaipur is the heart of Rajasthan, then Udaipur is its soul. While Udaipur is globally acclaimed for its palaces, lakes, and majestic forts, there’s another side of this city that often goes unnoticed but leaves visitors equally enchanted – its traditional markets and shopping areas.
Let’s embark on a shopping spree in the Venice of the East, discovering not just places to shop, but stories, history, and the very soul of this Rajasthani marvel. Here are 10 renowned shopping spots in Udaipur that would turn even the royals into retail enthusiasts!
Exploring Udaipur: A Guide to 10 Iconic Shopping Destinations
1. Hathi Pol Bazaar: Art on Canvas
Renowned for: Rajasthani Folk Art
Emanating a rich fragrance of Rajasthan’s illustrious artistry, Hathi Pol Bazaar offers more than just souvenirs – it offers stories. Here, artists showcase the splendors of Pichwai and Phad paintings, the kind that once adorned the royal palaces.
These paintings are deeply rooted in tradition, often portraying tales of Lord Krishna or heroic Rajasthani legends. Apart from paintings, don’t be surprised if you stumble upon some hidden gems like handcrafted toys or ornate home decor.
- Location: Near City Palace, Udaipur
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, closed on Sundays
Things to Do/Activities:
- Explore a wide range of Pichwai paintings and traditional Rajasthani artwork.
- Shop for handcrafted souvenirs, jewelry, and home décor.
- Interact with local artisans to learn about their techniques.
Tips: Bargain respectfully and look for certified artwork to ensure authenticity.
Suggested itineraries for a trip to Rajasthan: Best Rajasthan tour plan for 10 days
2. Bada Bazaar: A Blend of Tradition & Modernity
Renowned for: Ethnic wear, jewellery, and authentic Rajasthani footwear (Juttis)
Bada Bazaar isn’t just a market; it’s an experience. Every corner is a burst of color, with traditional fabrics like Bandhani, Leheriya, and Batik inviting you with their intricate designs.
This bazaar is also a paradise for jewellery aficionados, offering a variety of handcrafted silver trinkets, tribal jewellery, and ornate Kundan pieces. And before you leave, don’t forget to slip into a pair of hand-stitched juttis!
- Location: Old City, Udaipur
- Timings: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Things to Do/Activities:
- Shop for ethnic jewelry, sarees, and textiles.
- Try local street food, including chaat and kachoris, while exploring.
- Look for unique handcrafted bangles and silver ornaments.
Tips: Visit during festive seasons for special collections and vibrant markets.
3. Mochiwada Bazaar: The Cobbler’s Dream
Renowned for: Leather Products
Imagine a place where every article has a touch of timelessness. Mochiwada Bazaar, with its array of leather products, offers precisely this.
From supple leather bags and journals that feel like holding a piece of history, every item here carries an air of vintage charm and meticulous craftsmanship.
- Location: Near City Palace, Udaipur
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Things to Do/Activities:
- Purchase high-quality, handcrafted leather goods, especially juttis and mojaris.
- Explore small shops offering unique designs at affordable prices.
- Customize footwear to suit your preferences.
Tips: Carry cash as some shops may not accept digital payments.
4. Shilpgram: A Village of Craft
Renowned for: Handicrafts and Rural Art
An artist’s dream and a culture enthusiast’s paradise, Shilpgram is a harmonious blend of artistry from various parts of India.
This rural complex showcases the diversity of Indian handicrafts. Stroll around and you’ll be greeted with live folk performances, pottery sessions, and artisans working on intricate weaves.
- Location: 3 km west of Udaipur, near Havala village
- Timings: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Things to Do/Activities:
- Witness live demonstrations of pottery, weaving, and painting.
- Purchase traditional handicrafts directly from artisans.
- Attend cultural performances showcasing local music and dance.
Tips: Visit during art fairs or festivals for an immersive experience.
Read also: Explore Udaipur’s Best Attractions in August
5. Jagdish Temple Street: The Spiritual Sojourn
Renowned for: Religious artifacts, idols, and decor
The spiritual aura of the Jagdish Temple spills over to the adjoining market. Amid the resonating temple bells, you’ll find intricately crafted idols, aromatic incense sticks, and a myriad of spiritual souvenirs to encapsulate your Udaipur experience.
- Location: Near Jagdish Temple, Udaipur
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Things to Do/Activities:
- Shop for puja essentials, incense sticks, and religious idols.
- Explore nearby stalls selling traditional Rajasthani fabrics and handicrafts.
- Savor local sweets like malpua and ghevar at nearby food stalls.
Tips: Mornings are less crowded, making it ideal for a relaxed shopping experience.
6. Clock Tower: Ticking Times and Textiles
Renowned for: Textiles, silver jewellery, and antiques
The regal aura of the Clock Tower lends itself to the market below. Here, antiquities jostle for space alongside silver jewellery and vibrant textiles.
Each artifact, whether it’s an ornate clock or a vintage coin, seems to whisper tales from the annals of Rajasthan’s history.
- Location: City Centre, Udaipur
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Things to Do/Activities:
- Browse through vibrant collections of sarees, shawls, and dress materials.
- Enjoy the bustling atmosphere filled with street vendors and local shoppers.
- Capture the heritage charm of the clock tower area.
Tips: Explore side lanes for hidden gems and niche products.
7. Lake Palace Road: A Shopper’s Shimmering Shoreline
Renowned for: Precious stones, jewellery, and trinkets
This marketplace captures the magic of Lake Pichola and infuses it into its collection. As the waters of the lake shimmer in the daylight, the stores alongside offer a radiant collection of semi-precious stones, bejeweled accessories, and traditional Rajasthani trinkets.
- Location: Adjacent to Lake Pichola, Udaipur
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Things to Do/Activities:
- Discover shops offering antique furniture, silverware, and jewelry.
- Explore a variety of leather goods, including bags and belts.
- Walk along the road to soak in its scenic charm near the lake.
Tips: Plan a visit in the evening to enjoy the lakeside ambiance.
8. Sadhna Emporium: A Collective Craft
Renowned for: Textiles and hand-printed apparel
Beyond its impressive collection of textiles and hand-printed apparel, Sadhna tells a tale of empowerment. An initiative to uplift rural women, every garment purchased here supports a vision of a more equal society.
- Location: Fatehpura, Udaipur
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Things to Do/Activities:
- Purchase block-printed textiles, quilts, and garments crafted by local women.
- Support sustainable and fair-trade practices.
- Learn about traditional dyeing and block printing methods.
Tips: Great place to shop for gifts and ethically-made souvenirs.
9. Rajasthali: The State’s Souvenir
Renowned for: Rajasthani handicrafts and artifacts
A treasure trove of Rajasthani art and culture, Rajasthali is a testament to the region’s unparalleled craftsmanship. Governed by the Rajasthan Government, this place promises not just quality but a genuine slice of Rajasthani heritage.
- Location: Pannadhay Marg, Udaipur
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Things to Do/Activities:
- Explore an array of government-certified Rajasthani crafts and products.
- Shop for blue pottery, traditional paintings, and wooden handicrafts.
- Get authentic products at reasonable, fixed prices.
Tips: Ideal for those who prefer hassle-free shopping without bargaining.
10. Chetak Circle: Circling Craftsmanship
Renowned for: Stationery, handmade papers, and street shopping
From handmade papers that bear the touch of tradition to a kaleidoscope of stationary, Chetak Circle is a dream for those who cherish the written word. Amid this, the vibrant street vendors enhance the charm, offering an array of products that cater to every whimsy.
- Location: Near Sukhadia Circle, Udaipur
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM
Things to Do/Activities:
- Visit shops selling traditional textiles, puppets, and leather goods.
- Enjoy the lively atmosphere and street-side stalls.
- Sample regional snacks and beverages from local vendors.
Tips: Best visited in the evening when the market is most vibrant.
Conclusion:
Shopping in Udaipur isn’t just about purchasing items; it’s about touching the very essence of its culture, traditions, and heritage. With each item you buy, you don’t just own a product; you own a piece of Udaipur’s heart, an essence of its soul, and a fragment of its tale.
So the next time you’re in this city of lakes, take a detour from the palaces and step into its bustling bazaars. Who knows, you might just find a story waiting to be taken home with you. Happy shopping!
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General Tips for Shopping in Udaipur:
- Best Time to Visit Markets: Evening hours for lively shopping scenes and cooler weather.
- Payment Methods: Carry cash for small vendors; larger shops may accept cards or digital payments.
- Packing Essentials: Bring reusable bags and comfortable walking shoes for exploring markets.
- Bargaining Tips: Negotiation is common in most local bazaars but not in fixed-price stores like Rajasthali.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Why is Udaipur a great destination for shopping?
Udaipur is known for its vibrant markets offering traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, jewelry, textiles, and unique souvenirs.
2. Which are the best shopping places in Udaipur?
Popular markets include Hathi Pol Bazaar, Bada Bazaar, Shilpgram, Mochiwada Bazaar, and Jagdish Temple Street.
3. What is special about Hathi Pol Bazaar?
Hathi Pol is famous for traditional Rajasthani paintings, Pichwai art, miniature artwork, and handcrafted items at affordable prices.
4. Why should I visit Bada Bazaar?
Bada Bazaar is a one-stop destination for ethnic jewelry, Bandhani sarees, leather goods, and street food.
5. What can I buy at Shilpgram?
Shilpgram offers handmade pottery, wooden artifacts, textiles, and souvenirs showcasing rural Rajasthani craftsmanship.
6. What makes Mochiwada Bazaar unique?
Mochiwada Bazaar specializes in traditional Rajasthani footwear like juttis, crafted with intricate embroidery and designs.
7. What can I find on Jagdish Temple Street?
This street is lined with shops selling ethnic jewelry, handicrafts, textiles, and home decor items.
8. Are there any luxury shopping options in Udaipur?
Yes, luxury boutiques like The Gallery at Taj Lake Palace and Mangalam Arts offer premium handcrafted goods and antiques.
9. What is the best time to shop in Udaipur?
The best time is between October and March when the weather is pleasant, making it enjoyable to explore the markets.
10. How can I bargain in Udaipur’s markets?
Bargaining is common in local markets, so start by offering 50-70% of the quoted price and negotiate politely.
11. Are there any night markets in Udaipur?
While most markets close by evening, food and street vendors around Fateh Sagar Lake offer a lively atmosphere for evening shopping.
12. What should I carry while shopping in Udaipur?
Carry cash, as many small shops prefer it, and reusable bags to reduce plastic waste while shopping.
