There is no doubt about the fact that Jaipur is one of the most sought-after holiday destinations in India. The city is frequented for its splendid monuments that are a window into its royal past and remains swamped with hordes of domestic as well as international travellers for most parts of the year. Adding to the fun quotient is the traditional Rajasthani hospitality which never ceases to impress.
Another thing that travellers cannot get enough of in Jaipur is retail therapy. The city is a shopaholics’ delight, dotted with bustling avenues, left, right and centre. From authentic traditional Rajasthani handicrafts to merchandise from renowned global brands, you can find it all here. Now, if you are one of those who like to go off the beaten path and indulge in experiences that not many people know about, then you need to ditch the well-known shopping places in the city and head to the lesser-known destinations. Want to know about these? Just keep reading…
1. Chaura Rasta, Jaipur
You could think of Chaura Rasta of Jaipur as equivalent to Delhi’s Nai Sarak, since it is the biggest hub of bookshops and publishing houses in the entire city. From brand new to second-hand reads, you can buy all sorts of books here. But the place does not just satiate the thirst of the bibliophile in you. This is also where you can buy all sorts of stationery items at wholesale rates. Strolling in the streets, you are likely to come across shops selling clothes and jewellery. So, if something catches your eye, do not hesitate to buy. But be sure to bargain a little before you pull out your wallet. Additionally, there are also many options to gorge on.
- Nearest metro station: Chandpole (2.1 km)
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM (Sunday closed)
2. Chandpole Bazar, Jaipur
If you have already made your way to all popular shopping places in Jaipur like Johari, Nehru and Tripolia and still have not been able to pick the right souvenir for your Jaipur trip, then perhaps you should give Chandpole Bazar a shot. The place is replete with shops selling everything from marble, wood and stone handicrafts to a wide variety of handlooms that symbolise the cultural and traditional values of Jaipur. Moreover, everything available here is offered at reasonable rates, so this is the perfect place for you to pick all your gifts for the loved ones back home.
- Nearest metro station: Chandpole (1.1 km)
- Timings: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
3. Kishanpole Bazar, Jaipur
Kishanpole Bazar is the first place that the people of Jaipur throng when they need to purchase wooden furniture, ornamental items or textiles. The intricately carved wooden art pieces are a not-to-be missed here. If you make a visit here, you are sure to come across something that you will not be able to resist to buy. Beautifully designed jewellery boxes are something you will frequently find while wandering in this old market. It is also a great place to pick up the famed Bandhej saree for yourself or a special someone.
- Nearest metro station: Chandpole (1.2 km)
- Timings: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
4. Sireh Deori Bazaar, Jaipur
Now, this is one of the most conveniently located markets in all of the Pink City. If you have visited the iconic Hawa Mahal and looked around a little, you must have noticed an array of shops selling all sorts of stuff on the opposite side of the road. That is Sireh Deori Bazaar for you. The shops here are famous for their leather goods, puppets and knick-knacks. This place is also a great window shopping destination where you can admire the products hanging outside stores and only step in if you fancy something.
- Nearest metro station: Chandpole (2.4 km)
- Timings: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
5. Mirza Ismail Road, Jaipur
Mirza Ismail Road, also known as M. I. Road, is one of the most underrated shopping venues in Jaipur. You can barely find any information about the place online. But people of Jaipur, as well as tourists who have had the chance to explore this area, swear by the fact that it is among the best places in the city to buy pottery items. And, that is not the only thing you can splurge on here. Mirza Ismail Road is also lined with several shops and stalls selling brass statues and an assortment of wooden objects. Read also – Places to Visit in Jaipur
- Nearest metro station: Sindhi Camp (1.9 km)
- Timings: 11:00 AM onwards
These are some lesser-known shopping places in Jaipur that are worth your visit. If you are at your hotel in Jaipur, having explored all popular points of interest and shopping places in the city, wondering what to do next, head to one of these and buy something unique.