Srinagar is, without a doubt, a destination that everyone wants to visit. Of course, there are good reasons why it’s a well-liked tourist attraction, and the plethora of markets is one of them. This historically rich city is known for its natural beauty, spices, snow-capped mountains, and also for its markets. It's a shopping heaven for anyone who loves handlooms, wooden artifacts, dry fruits, and spices. And not to forget, Kashmiri clothing which when worn, renders an elegant look to the overall appearance. So keep reading to know more about the markets of Srinagar where you can shop your heart out.
One of the most prominent marketplaces that you’ll hear from the locals of Srinagar is the Lal Chowk market. It's not only the shops and variety of items you find here but also the breathtaking views of this place that are worth the trip. And the best part? As you explore the stalls, you won't even realize how a couple of hours slip by.
Lal Chowk is considered the top market to visit for everything it has to offer both visitors and residents in Srinagar. People who don't mind bargaining with shopkeepers here are the ones to get the best offers on items they like. So the next time you visit Srinagar, make sure you give Lal Chowk market a visit.
What To Buy: Kashmiri shawls, woolen clothes, crockery, exquisite items crafted out of walnut wood, jackets, textiles, dry fruits, etc.
Days To Visit: This market is open all days of the week throughout the year. So you can visit it anytime and shop for as many things for as long as you’d like.
Timings: 9:30 am to 8:00 pm.
Location: Lal Chowk, Srinagar, 190012.
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A large assortment of goods will attract the shopaholic in you to Residency Road. Visiting this market, you'll be reminded of the iconic mall lanes typically seen in Indian hill stations. This shopper's paradise is adjacent to Lal Chowk and is always flooded by tourists and locals alike. If you’re the one to buy gifts for all your relatives and friends wherever you go for a trip, this is a market you must visit.
The vendors calling out for customers to visit, and the hustle and bustle of people in the streets will be a tune that will stay in your head rent-free. Once you enter this market and start exploring, you’ll learn that this treasure trove has a lot in store for you.
What To Buy: Supreme quality dry fruits such as figs, raisins, dates, apricots, walnuts, and authentic spices. You’ll also find ethnic Dogra jewelry and Kashmiri handicrafts in this market.
Days To Visit: Residency Road market is open all days of the week throughout the year.
Timings: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm.
Location: Residency Road, Srinagar, 190001.
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Everyone knows of the popular Dal Lake of Srinagar. Some people know it for its breathtaking beauty, while some know it for its vast size and houseboats. But there is something more to it that everyone admires and that’s its floating vegetable market! Tourists and locals come each day to Dal Lake to see and purchase flowers, along with natural produce of fruits and vegetables.
It’s routine for locals to visit this market to buy or sell fresh food items. Since this market starts early in the morning, it's best to book a Shikara, or a boat, a day in advance and get an early morning glimpse and bargain. Also, since it's an early morning market, it gets crowded and the fresh produce gets over in a matter of a few hours. So make sure you reach the market in time to get your hands on some of the best produce.
What To Buy: Fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Fresh, organic, and 100% original saffron is also available in this market.
Days To Visit: This market is open on all days of the week.
Timings: 6:00 am to 7:30 am.
Location: Dal Lake, Karapura, Srinagar.
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Hail all street shopping lovers, the Zaina Kadal Road market is one of the finest gems of Srinagar. All the tiny shops hidden in nooks and corners of the market have an ample variety of products that will make you want to spend and buy everything in your sight. You might want to polish your bargaining skills and go prepared to make the most of every penny.
As a true shopaholic, you’ll adore the atmosphere here. The merchants yelling out to customers calling them to visit their stalls, vehicles honking, and tourists bargaining in the background will make you feel right at home. So don't miss out on experiencing shopping at the Zaina Kadal Road market.
What To Buy: Kashmiri clothing, handicraft items, home decor, handlooms, textiles, and more.
Days To Visit: This market is also open all days of the week, throughout the year.
Timings: 9:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Location: Sokalipora, Srinagar, 190002.
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Kashmir Government Arts Emporium market is particularly for you, art enthusiasts! The state government of Kashmir oversees the operation of this beautiful emporium on Residency Road. It is the only store in the area that caters to the needs of those art lovers who value the intricate and skilled work of Kashmiri artisans and craftsmen.
The basic idea of this emporium is to support regional handicrafts and art. The artists put up their artwork on display and sale at the emporium for the tourists and locals to shop. The art forms displayed here are distinctive and reflect Kashmir's diverse culture. These artists display their skill with exquisite attention to detail and prioritize excellence in all aspects of their chosen fields of expertise. Some of the woodwork stores take customization orders. In case, you’re willing to get a certain handicraft item personalized, you can check with the store manager once. The relaxing atmosphere of this location has a calming impact on the mind and spirit; tourists cannot help but wonder at the exhibits!
What To Buy: Kashmiri artifacts, carpets, wooden furniture, and local handicrafts.
Days To Visit: Monday to Saturday.
Timings: 9:30 am to 6:30 pm.
Location: Emporium Building, Residency Road, Srinagar 190001.
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If you want to buy some authentic Kashmiri work carpets, textiles, and artifacts to take back home, Badshah Chowk market is a must-visit. You’ll find all kinds of carpets and dress materials that are handmade and delicately woven. Besides, the vendors are usually ready to bargain the prices and you get steal deals. Throughout the market, you’ll also find ample stalls and vendors who sell snacks and food items. So when you get tired or hungry while shopping, you can grab a quick snack for yourself.
In case you’ve not had enough time to go shopping in Srinagar, this market can be your one-stop shop to buy anything and everything you want. Affordable prices, great variety, and authentic Kashmiri handwork items are what you’ll find in abundance at this market.
What To Buy: Genuine Pashmina shawls, Kashmiri carpets, embroidered kurtis, salwar suits, and tops.
Days To Visit: This market is open all throughout the week and can be visited anytime during the year.
Timings: 9:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Location: Hari Singh High Street, Saraibal, Srinagar, 190008.
Located just beside the polo ground is the market hub of Srinagar, Polo View. Whether you want something specific or something very generic, this is one place to get it all. Ranging from textiles to handicrafts and even spices, Polo View has everything you need. It's one of those markets that's always crowded with people throughout the day. It's by no means a big market, but somehow has everything to satisfy your needs.
What To Buy: Everything from authentic Kashmiri printed suits and sarees, to vegetables, ornaments, home decor, papier-mache, and even Pashmina shawls are available here.
Days To Visit: Like most other markets in Srinagar, Polo View is also open on all days of the week.
Timings: 9:30 am to 8:00 pm.
Location: 35, Polo View Road, Regal Chowk, Kothi Bagh, Srinagar, 190001.
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Summing Up
Make sure you have room in your suitcase the next time you visit Srinagar. All of these markets and incredible stores will ensure that you never leave empty-handed. Besides, you also get to experience the shopping culture of the city and get ample gifts and items for yourself and your loved ones. Happy shopping!
What Can I Buy In Srinagar?
Srinagar markets and bazaars are known for quality apparel, home decor items, Pashminas, Kashmiri tea, carpets, walnut wood products, spices, and more.
What Is The Main Market In Srinagar?
Lal Chowk is the main market in Srinagar. It's one of the biggest and oldest ones in the city.
What To Buy In Lal Chowk Srinagar?
Kashmiri shawls, woolen clothes, crockery, exquisite items crafted out of walnut wood, jackets, textiles, dry fruits, etc are some of the many things you can buy at Lal Chowk market in Srinagar.
Which Place Is Best For Shopping In Kashmir?
When shopping in Kashmir, Lal Chowk, Residency Road, Dal Lake Floating Market, Polo View, and Zaina Kadal Road market are some of the best places to visit.
What Things Are Available In Srinagar Bazar?
Dogra jewelry, Kashmiri handicrafts, textiles, dry fruits, spices, artifacts, carpets, and a variety of clothing items are available in the bazaars of Srinagar.
Are 2 Days Enough For Srinagar?
If you’re only visiting Srinagar, then 2 days are more than enough to explore all the touristy places. But, if you also want to explore the markets and shop, it's best to stay here for 3 or more days.
How Can I Spend My Evening In Srinagar?
Exploring the city in the evening will give you a glimpse into its nightlife. Firstly, you can catch a sunset at one of the many lakes in Srinagar and if you’re nearby, you can also go for a walk at the Mughal Gardens. You can call it a night by visiting a bar or a restaurant for some food and drinks.
