Handy Tips for Shopping at New Delhi Markets
Finding Bargains at Janpath, Tibetan and Sarojini Markets in India
May 30, 2009
A little preparation goes a long way when travelling, especially in India. Most New Delhi markets are open air, so wear a hat, #60 sunscreen and dress for comfort. Closed-toed shoes are essential as pathways are uneven and often piled with debris. For a safe thirst quenching drink, bottled lemon-lime beverage Mirinda is available almost everywhere.
Visit Janpath Market for Apparel
Along the alleys of Janpath, stalls are bursting with cheap and fashionable clothes. Long cotton skirts and loose Indian-style tops, tie-dyed or with mirror work are perfect for a bohemian summer look. Men's shirts, pants and shorts are also available here. Bring a friend or two to help gauge fit (change rooms are rare) and to negotiate better deals for bulk purchases.
Other best buys are patchwork handbags and white cotton nightgowns with pretty embroidery, suitable for gift giving. In India, "free size" means "one size fits all."
Shoe stores, often air-conditioned, are a good place to stop for a rest. Chic black sandals or beaded ballet flats can be found for under $20.00.
Shops in the Tibetan Market
Next to Janpath is the Tibetan Market, known for crafts and jewellery. A puff of incense and cool air curls out of Tribal Arts. Did someone say "Open Sesame?" This tiny, dim shop is like an Ali Baba's cave of beads, bangles and glitter. Walls are draped with faux silver necklaces strung with mock coral, turquoise and lapis. Styles range from sleekly elegant to chunky ethnic and many items are priced from two to three dollars.
A few doors down, Satish Fine Arts also sells an exotic blend of earrings, bracelets and necklaces.
Money and Bartering Tips for New Delhi Markets
Small denominations of rupees are better for bartering in these markets. Bank machines are scarce and credit cards aren't widely accepted so don't be alarmed if a clerk sends a runner to change a large bill. It's common practice, especially early in the day.
Do some research and browse around before buying as many shops sell similar or even identical items. Feign indifference and offer half of what vendors ask in order to start the bargaining process. Keep it light and remember to have fun. Some shops are fixed price, meaning no negotiating. In others, prices are so reasonable that haggling is usually not worth the time and effort.
Touts can be bothersome and sad-eyed children often follow tourists around. Some travellers find that hiring a young guide to carry purchases and escort them through the market is an easy way to avoid hassles.
Household Goods at Sarojini Nagar Market
Sarojini Nagar is mainly a household goods market. Popular with local shoppers, its stalls are packed with colourful napkins, tablecloths, cushion covers and bedspreads. It also holds other treasures.
Indian Beauty Products
Visit drugstores in the market for the latest Garnier face creams, made in India to the French company's standards, but selling for a fraction of the usual cost. Biotique is an Indian skin care line that uses unique all-natural ingredients based on Ayurvedic formulas. Mysore Sandal Soap is another fine product in a charming package.
Cocktails at the Imperial Hotel
For a taste of the other side of New Delhi, stop in for a drink at the stately Imperial Hotel. A large (double) premium gin and tonic is a jaw-dropping $33.00.
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