Planning to go shopping in Ooty? Often referred to as the “Queen of Hill Stations,” Ooty is not only famous for its scenic beauty but also for its energetic shopping scene. Located in the Nilgiri Hills, this charming hill station presents a distinct shopping experience where you can find everything from local handicrafts to trendy apparel. Whether you’re hunting for exquisite souvenirs, fresh produce, or traditional Nilgiri tea, Ooty has something for every shopper. In this blog, we’ll explore ten must-visit places for a shopping spree in Ooty.
10 Best Places For Shopping In Ooty
Discover local treasures, fashion finds, and unique souvenirs in these top destinations for shopping in Ooty.
1. Nilgiri Big Bazaar
Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nilgiri Big Bazaar is one of the most popular spots for shopping, catering to both locals and tourists. This supermarket-style store offers a wide variety of products, including groceries, household items, clothing, and local specialities. Visitors love the convenient layout and the affordability of items, making it an excellent place for stocking up on essentials or picking up unique souvenirs.
Timings: 9 AM – 8:30 PM
2. Sarkar Shopping Mall
Photo: Destination8infinity / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sarkar Shopping Mall features a range of shops selling clothes, accessories, and handicrafts. The lively atmosphere and well-organized spaces make it easy to browse through the various offerings. Additionally, the mall often hosts local vendors, providing shoppers with the chance to discover unique items that reflect the culture of the Nilgiris.
Distance from Ooty Railway Station: 3 km
Timings: 9 AM – 8:30 PM
3. Ooty Municipal Market
Photo: Salma Smida / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Ooty Municipal Market is a crowded hub for shopping and a true reflection of the local lifestyle. Here visitors can find fresh produce, aromatic spices, and beautiful flowers. The market is a great place to experience the authentic Ooty culture, with friendly vendors offering a wide array of goods. Don’t forget to haggle a bit; it’s part of the fun!
Timings: 24*7
4. Classic Collection
Photo: Yusuf Timur Çelik / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Classic Collection is a boutique store specializing in traditional handicrafts and souvenirs from the Nilgiri region. Shoppers can find a variety of items, including wooden artefacts, woollen clothing, and handmade jewellery. Renowned for its quality and craftsmanship, it’s an ideal spot for shopping. The warm ambience and attentive staff create a welcoming atmosphere, inviting visitors to browse at their leisure.
Timings: 9:30 AM – 10 PM
5. Higginbothams
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Higginbothams is one of the oldest and most iconic bookstores in India, located in Ooty. Established in 1844, this charming bookstore offers a wide range of books, from fiction to travel guides. In addition to books, Higginbothams also sells stationery, gifts, and local products, making it a perfect stop for those looking to pick up unique souvenirs while shopping.
Timings: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
6. Fashion Junction
Photo: CC0 Public Domain / pxhere / Image For Representation Only
Fashion Junction is a trendy apparel store that shows the latest fashion trends at affordable prices. Located in a prime area of Ooty, this shop is popular with both locals and tourists. Offering a variety of clothing options for men, women, and children, Fashion Junction is the perfect place to update your wardrobe. The friendly staff ensures you have a great experience shopping.
Timings: 8 AM – 11 PM
7. Tibetan Market
Photo: Ricky Esquivel / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
For a unique experience of shopping, the Tibetan Market is a must-visit. This market features a variety of Tibetan handicrafts, including jewellery, shawls, and colourful decorations. The lively atmosphere and friendly vendors make it an ideal spot for unique souvenirs. Bargaining is common, so feel free to negotiate for the best prices.
Timings: 10 AM – 8 PM
8. Main Bazaar
Photo: Miguel Ángel García. / pxhere / Image For Representation Only
The Main Bazaar is the heartbeat of Ooty’s shopping scene, filled with local shops and vendors offering a wide range of products. Here, visitors can find everything from clothing and accessories to handicrafts and local delicacies. The lively atmosphere, colourful stalls, affordable prices, and opportunities to interact with local artisans make shopping an enjoyable experience.
Timings: 9 AM – 9:30 PM
9. Charring Cross
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Charring Cross is a popular junction where you can find everything from handmade crafts to trendy fashion. The lively environment attracts both locals and tourists, making it a busy hub of activity. Be sure to check out the local snacks and treats available at various vendors as you stroll through this lively area.
Timings: 24*7
10. Lower Bazaar Road
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Lower Bazaar Road is a lively street filled with shops offering clothing, accessories, home décor, and local produce. Known for its friendly vendors and affordable prices, shoppers can find souvenirs, fresh vegetables, and unique handicrafts. Take your time to explore the various stalls and interact with the friendly shopkeepers for a truly local experience of shopping.
Timings: 10 AM – 9 PM
Shopping in Ooty is a delightful experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and pick up quirky treasures. From busy markets to boutique stores, the variety of shopping options ensures that every visitor will find something special. Whether you’re looking for traditional handicrafts, fashionable clothing, or local delicacies, Ooty has it all. Plan a trip with TripXL and explore the beauty and charm of this hill station.
Cover Photo: CC0 Public Domain / pxhere / Image For Representation Only