Despite the number of malls and branded showrooms sprouting in the city over the last few years, a large section of the residents of Bengaluru still throng the old market places. A vibrant part of the city’s history, these places are well-connected by roads and walking distance from major bus stations. While walking through these streets may not appeal to a few, with some scouring and rummaging, one can make great finds at grand bargains. If you are looking to revamp your wardrobe while being easy on the pocket, here are a few pointers as to where to start looking.
CHICKPET
What you'll find: A long narrow bustling lane with shops, big and small, along the sides, Chickpet is one of the oldest market places in Bengaluru. Centrally located, the market is at close proximity to the Kempegowda Bus Station and the Bengaluru City Railway Station.
“It is the ultimate go-to shopping place on occasions such as weddings, house warming ceremonies and get-togethers,” says Meghana Ravikumar, a frequent visitor. :The wholesale prices make it easier to shop in bulk for gifting as well.” “It is definitely the best budget wedding trousseau shopping place in the city,” says Samridhi Gupta, who recently purchased a lehenga at Chickpet for her wedding. “You can get clothes in all ranges and varieties if you have the patience to look for it,” she adds.
Prices: All ranges
Best buys: Silk saris, lehengas, dress material
Tip: Be prepared to manoeuvre through the crowded lane. Carry adequate protection from rain and sun
SHIVAJINAGAR
What you'll find: Often confused with Commercial Street, the Shivajinagar Market is located in the lanes behind Commercial Street. As one looks deeper, the prices drop lower and one can find shops laden with a variety of dress material and fashion accessories. There are a number of boutiques that specialise in intricate embroidered work as well as dresses and gowns. “I buy material for my kurta or a matching blouse for my sari with tassels and lace and give it for stitching all in one place,” says Shraddha Subhramanium. “These pieces stand out as they are one-of-a-kind unlike the branded ones who have the same stock at every outlet and you end up having the same thing as someone else,” she adds.
Prices: Medium to high
Best buys: Dress material, tailoring boutiques, fancy tassels and accessories
Tip: Explore the market place before making the buy. Chances are you might get a better price for the same piece in another shop
K R MARKET
What you'll find: Also known as City Market, it is most famous for its fresh flowers which are sold by arm’s length. One can also find shopping complexes selling clothes adjoining the flower market.
Prices: Low to medium
Best buys: All ranges of clothes
Tip: Be sure to catch a movie at one of the theatres adjoining the market after shopping
MAJESTIC MARKET
What you'll find: Known for its close proximity to the Kempegowda Bus Station and Bengaluru Central Railway Station, this shopping place is for those who love bargaining. From Hong Kong Bazaar to National Market and other shopping complexes, there is barely anything you can’t find here. The clothes are shipped from all across the country including Surat, Bombay and Kolkata. “There is a change in ticket size over the years,” says Rakesh Thakkar, a sari shop owner at Alankar Plaza. “The average sari sale used to be between Rs. 300 to Rs. 500 and now it has gone up to Rs. 700 to Rs. 1,000. People are definitely spending more and are aware of the way they want to dress,” he adds.
Prices: Low to medium
Best buys: Low range saris, fancy ethnic, formal cotton shirts, jackets
Tip: Exercise your bargaining skills to the maximum
MALLESWARAM 8TH CROSS
What you'll find: With streets full of flower sellers and vegetable vendors, Malleswaram Market also has old distinct shops that sell saris, kurtas and dress material. There are many shops on both sides that sell baby clothes as well.
Prices: Medium
Best buys: Ethnic, shopping for kids
Tip: The street is teeming on festive days and the road is packed with vendors. Avoid taking your vehicle on such days and swing through the crowd
JAYANAGAR 4TH BLOCK
What you’ll find: Located a few meters away from the Jayanagar Bus Stop, 4th Block is huge but easy to manoeuvre when compared to other centres. From big brands out in the streets to local shops inside the complex, one can match dupattas and accessories for any outfit. “I love coming here because the prices are low for simple clothing for everyday use and it is very close to my place. I always grab a snack after I’m done shopping,” says Anitha Gowda, a resident of Jayanagar.
Prices: All ranges
Best buys: Matching dupattas and salwar sets, cotton dress material
Tip: Try out food joints in 4th Block after the exhausting shopping spree
