Affordable Shopping Spots in Varanasi to Enchant Shopaholics

Affordable Shopping Spots in Varanasi: Best Of Traditional And New Goodies To Purchase

Varanasi is most famous as the religious center of India, but that doesn’t mean it is only rich in religion. Though you would find some of the most stunning religious and cultural places, there is no lack of shopping areas either. You can find some of the most affordable shopping spots in Varanasi by exploring the streets.

In the various markets we will explore today- you can find many items ranging from clothes to household items. Ethnic or modern; historic or up-to-date, you will find all sorts of goods to splurge on. So let us roam through the streets of Varanasi and discover the markets.

Godowlia Market

Located minutes from the riverbank, Godowlia is one of the most happening places in the city. The Godowlia Varanasi market stretches out through the four roads of the intersection and even the little galis.

It is perfect for clothes, furniture, food, jewelry, and many other products. You can find exceptional traditional wear like Chikankari kurtas and Banarasi sarees. Godowlia is also very near to some yummy food spots in the city, which you can hit after you finish shopping.

Highlights:

• Clothes (Traditional and Modern)
• Household Items

Nai Sadak Market

Preceding the area of Godowlia, the Nai Sadak market is one of the most affordable shopping spots in Varanasi. From clothes to footwear, décor items to electronics, there is nothing you cannot find here.

Out of all the places mentioned on the list, this is one of the cheapest of them all. It is why you would see the street filled with shoppers whenever it is a festive season. Try to avoid venturing the road in the evenings as the crowds tend to get larger and larger.

Highlights:

• Clothes (Traditional and Modern)
• Grocery

Thatheri Bazaar

If you’re a fan of decorative items and metal, this Varanasi market is perfect for you. Thatheri bazaar offers some of the most unique religious and general artifacts made of metal like copper.

You can find pieces to adorn your home’s Pooja area or aesthetic pieces for décor. The prices are also the lowest for these items, lower than the usual rates elsewhere. Clothing and similar items are available, though not as readily, in the market.

Highlights:

• Religious Statues
• Home Décor Items

Vishwanath Gali

Originally the main way to reach the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the Vishwanath Gali is a known market. It has many ancient and new shops lined throughout the web of lanes. You can find some of the most intricate jewelry, colorful sarees, and traditional toys.

It is perhaps one of the most affordable shopping spots in Varanasi to buy traditional wear and items. The Gali also holds some of the best street food shops where you can enjoy a snack. You can visit the market after you’re done visiting the temple to save time and effort.

Highlights:

• Clothes (Traditional and Modern)
• Jewelry

Dal Mandi

Dal Mandi is a mainly wholesale market in Varanasi offering clothes, footwear, and many other products. The highlight of the market, however, is its wholesale clothing which you can find for cheap.

You can buy wholesale clothes, both ready-made and meant for stitching. Even apart from the wholesale clothes, it has retail shops too. However, wholesale goods have jaw-dropping prices, making them more popular.

Highlights:

• Wholesale apparel
• Grocery

Chowk

Chowk is a very famous market in Varanasi, providing a wide array of handmade clothes. Traditional Banarasi clothes handcrafted by artisans are the specialty of the place.

Depending on the type of saree shop in Varanasi you visit, the prices may range from highly expensive to very affordable. Chowk is also perfect for other items like home décor, furniture, and more.

Highlights:

• Clothes (Traditional and Modern)
• Handicrafts

Deendayal Hastkala Sankul

The Deendayal Hastkala Sankul Market is a newer addition to the list of affordable shopping spots in Varanasi. You must know the place since it also houses a popular Varanasi Museum on the premises.

You might think that it would be too pricey, but you can find cheap products too. The shops in the trade center sell mostly handlooms which can be expensive or affordable. You can get some of the most authentic handmade items in this place and enjoy the area too.

Highlights:

• Clothes (Traditional and Modern)
• Handicrafts

Hathua Market

Hathua Marker combined with the Lahurabir area is one of the most popular Varanasi shopping spots. The street itself is quite close to the city center and holds various shops. You can electronics, household items, décor items, clothes, groceries, and more.

Due to its central location, you can also access many retail stores of popular brands along the streets. The Lahurabir area also has many street food vendors and restaurants to satiate your hunger.

Highlights:

• Clothes (Traditional and Modern)
• Footwear, Accessories

Malviya Market

The Malviya market in the Maidagin area of Varanasi saw some recent changes in its layout. With labeled shops and better navigation, you can visit many stores and find clothes, footwear, jewelry, and other items. No doubt it is one of the most affordable shopping spots in Varanasi.

The clothing stores are most prominent in the area, but you can also find furniture, jewelry, and diverse items. If you visit the market in the evening, stick around to give the local street food a taste.

Highlights:

• Clothes (Traditional and Modern)
• Food and Confectionary

Conclusion

Varanasi markets are the dream come true for any shopping lover who wants clothes at reasonable prices. Being the most affordable shopping spots in Varanasi, these markets are always filled with locals and tourists alike.

And their range is not limited to just clothes- you can find many other daily items too. And even if you roam the streets for hours at a go, you would still be fascinated with the little shops lining them. So when you’re there, you can visit these markets for shopping in Varanasi.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit a market in Varanasi?
Though there is no perfect time for visiting, avoid going to the markets on Sundays as you might find some shops closed. Venture out in the early evening hours when the weather is at its best.

Are clothes/items in the Varanasi markets too expensive?
No, you can find very affordable shopping spots in Varanasi, especially in the streets. Shopping at retail stores and malls will cost you more but roadside shops and stalls keep the rates low.

Can you use cards to pay for items you buy in Varanasi markets?
Although many shops now accept card and UPI payments, it is best to keep some cash in hand.