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Beyond the natural wonders, sprawling meadows and beautiful high-rise and snow-capped mountain peaks, Kashmir has a treasure of shopping opportunities for its travellers. From the staple Kashmiri shawls to handicrafts, shopping in Kashmir opens up the perfect opportunity for retail therapy. Not only do the visitors get to indulge in an engaging shopping experience, but the age-old markets and shops around Kashmir also help contribute to the livelihood of the locals. It has helped the local artisans find a way to showcase and commercialise their talent and skills.
Top 10 Destinations For Shopping In Kashmir
From the iconic Lal Chowk, brimming with traditional treasures, to the serene Dal Lake with its floating vendors, Kashmir offers an unforgettable retail experience.
1. Lal Chowk
Photo: ThePoeticFrame / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If there’s one market for shopping in Kashmir that triumphs all the others, it has to be Lal Chowk. It is one of the most popular spots that attracts both locals and tourists. It is located in Srinagar’s commercial district, which is why it has gained so much traction over time. The market area features a maze of shops, big and small, which unfold some of the most alluring treasures of Kashmir. One can find shops dedicated to Kashmiri carpets (each of which is hand-weaved by the artisans), intricately carved wooden furniture and hand-embroidered silk scarves. Stop by one of the many bakeries there to try Kahwa and bakery items.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Must buy: Kashmiri shawls, carpets, silk scarves, and wooden furniture
Suggested Read: Shopping In Srinagar
2. Polo View Market
Photo: Kritzolina / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
For tourists interested in finding affordable fashion finds, Polo View Market is the place one needs to visit. This upscale market boasts a collection of trendy apparel stores, catering to both local and international brands. Beyond that, one can also find shops that are dedicated to selling Kashmiri pashminas and shawls. Visitors can spot a variety of Kashmiri kurtas, pherans, and traditional dresses which have an authentic touch of Kashmir and will add the same to one’s wardrobe. While there, stop by the shops on the inside to score some good-quality Kashmiri silk scarves, stoles, and embroidered bags.
Timings: 10:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Must buy: Kashmiri kurtas, pherans, and traditional dresses
3. Residency Road Market
Photo: Najeeb Shaik / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
While it’s not necessarily a popular market in Kashmir, Residency Road is a hub where one can find a variety of amazing yet budget-friendly finds, catering to the diverse needs of the shoppers. Tourists can find a variety of Kashmiri handicrafts at cheaper prices, especially shawls, scarves, and paper-mâché items. Besides that, visitors can come across shops selling spices, dry fruits, and other local produce. If looking to buy a lot of souvenirs to take back home like bangles, keychains, and fridge magnets, get them here as well since the prices are quite low. Stop by one of the many street food joints to try kebabs, chaat and samosas to fulfil hunger.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Must buy: Kashmiri shawls, scarves, and paper-mâché, spices, and dry fruits
Suggested Read: Best Food In Kashmir
4. Dal Lake Floating Market
Photo: Divya Agrawal / Unsplash
For an authentic Kashmiri shopping experience, visit floating markets on Dal Lake. Board a shikhara and then encounter the vendors who are selling a variety of items including fresh fruits, vegetables, and local flowers. One can also find vendors selling Kahwa and other popular Kashmiri snacks on their smaller boats on Dal Lake. There are a few local artisans that sell handcrafted souvenirs like paper-mâché items and embroidered shawls. The view of the picturesque mountains in the background and shopping while floating in an experience is very unlikely and thrilling too.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Must buy: Fresh fruits, vegetables, and local flowers, Handicrafts, and Local food
5. Badshah Chowk Market
Photo: Abeera khurshid1 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
For those seeking the finest Kashmiri carpets, Badshah Chowk is the ultimate destination. This historic market is renowned for its exquisite collection of hand-knotted carpets. There are big and small shops in this market area where one can even find the artisans directly selling their weaved carpets. Visitors can sit with the artisans to learn more about the traditional weaving experience too. A variety of carpets made out of different materials like wool, silk and even pashmina can be witnessed here. The prices are usually a lot higher, so be sure to bargain the prices.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Must buy: Kashmiri carpets
Suggested Read: Shopping In Jammu
6. Zaina Kadal Market
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Up next on the list is the famous Zaina Kadal Market, which was once one of the most bustling markets. This is a century-old market that houses some of the most affordable finds around Kashmir. The old-world charm of Srinagar is better reflected in this market, which explains why most people are so inclined towards visiting this place when they are in Kashmir. One can find all the staple Kashmiri knick-knacks in the shops including shawls, scarves, papeer-mâché items, and wooden souvenirs. There are a few newly opened modern clothing stores around the market as well. Visitors stop to try the Kashmiri curries and rotis from the local eateries here.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Must buy: Shawls, scarves, paper-mâché items, and wooden souvenirs
7. Dastgir Sahib Market
Photo: Joe Mon bkk/ Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
While we are on the topic of century-old markets around Kashmir, another spot that deserves to be explored is the Dastgir Sahib Market. It is a paradise for foodies and those seeking authentic Kashmiri ingredients. Stepping into this aromatic market is nothing short of a sensory feast and one can find a lot of the spices and dry fruits at a cheaper rate than normal. Some of the popular types of dry fruits and nuts visitors can find there are walnuts, almonds, and apricots, perfect for healthy snacking. Also, shops here sell traditional Kashmiri teas like kahwa and kahwa leaves.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Must buy: Spices and Dry fruits
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kashmir
8. Nishat Market
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For someone specifically on a hunt for a market that specialises in Kashmiri shawls, Nishat Market is the place to be in. Here, one can find a curated selection of shawls crafted from various materials, including pashmina, wool, and silk. Visitors can find shawls in traditional Kashmiri styles and contemporary designs to better fit the attires. Also, beyond shawls, the market sells a variety of other Kashmiri staples like scarves, local garments, handicrafts, and wooden items. There are several amazing restaurants around the market where visitors can stop to grab a bite or two.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Must buy: Kashmiri shawls, scarves, and handicrafts
9. Hazratbal Market
Photo: Hardikmodi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located near the revered Hazratbal shrine, this market offers a unique shopping experience. This is a popular market among the locals too because several shops are selling daily essentials, local produce, and religious souvenirs. One can indulge in a variety of local produce like fresh fruits and vegetables in the market, which is a bonus. Shops are selling essential household items, clothing, and everyday necessities too. The spiritual atmosphere of the place also adds to its highlight.
Timings: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Must buy: Religious souvenirs like prayer beads, caps, and religious texts.
Suggested Read: Shopping In Pahalgam
10. Boulevard Road Market
Photo: Mubashir Ahmet / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Like Residency Road, even Boulevard Road offers a unique shopping experience. Shopping against the breathtaking backdrop of Dal Lake is what adds to the retail experience further. This scenic stretch boasts a collection of upscale shops and boutiques. While visitors can find a few shops here and there, the main attractions on this road are the cafes and restaurants selling a variety of cuisines. Tourists can also take an evening stroll along the boulevard and soak in the picturesque views around. Above all, one gets to relax and unwind with the views of the Dal Lake.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 08:00 PM
Must buy: Local Kashmiri souvenirs and local food
Kashmir’s vibrant shopping scene offers something for everyone. Bazaars are brimming with traditional treasures to the serene floating markets on Dal Lake, each catering to the uniqueness of shopping in Kashmir. Having proper knowledge and guidance of the best markets should better equip the visitors with the knowledge to navigate through the purchases in these bustling markets. Sort out all the bookings with TripXL to find the best deals and discounts and to have the best trip.
Cover Photo: Slyronit / Wikimedia Commons
