The Magical Laad Bazaar – A Shopping Frenzy Like No Other
Next to Charminar, on one of the four main roads originating from there, you will find a bustling market offering an array of products, and this market is known as the Laad Bazaar or the Choodi Bazaar.
History of Laad Bazaar:
Laad Bazaar is called such because Laad, a type of lacquer, is used to make bangles and this 1-kilometer-long shopping strip is lined with shops selling Lacquer Bangles. There are shops also selling saris, wedding-related items, and imitation jewelry. Often Laad Bangles are adorned with artificial diamonds and semi-precious stones.
Laad Bazaar has been in existence since the Qutb Shahis and Nizams’ time and is situated close to renowned landmarks like Charminar, Mecca Masjid, and Chowmahalla Palace.
This Bazaar is the main market for bangles, semi-precious stones, pearls, jewelry, silverware, Nirmal, Kalamkari paintings, bidriware, and perfumes. Here you can find a range of products like handwoven materials of silk, cotton, brocade, velvet, and gold embroidered fabrics, traditional Khara Dupattas, lacquer bangles studded with stones, saris, and much more.
There are many stories connected to this Bazaar’s name. One common legend recounts that Laad Bazaar traces its name to Ladli Begum, the wife of Mir Mehboob Ali Khan, the sixth Nizam of Hyderabad.
One more tale is that Abdur Razzaq Laary, a Golconda army general is believed to be the source of the name ‘Laary Bazaar’, which eventually became known as Laad Bazaar.
Regardless of the origin of the name, the charm of Laad Bazaar is undeniable.
Visiting the Laad Bazaar in Hyderabad is best done in the evening, though the bazaar is open from 11 am to 10.30 pm. Go to the top of Charminar and take in the breathtaking views of the city from the top and then dive into the hustle and bustle of the market.
Tips for a better shopping experience:
- Due to the narrow roads, auto rickshaws and cars are not allowed in this Bazaar. Therefore, it is recommended to plan your trip on a two-wheeler or book a private cab. If you choose to travel by personal car, it will be difficult to find a parking spot around that place.
- Shops here sell items at flexible prices, so don’t settle for the rates they quote. Make use of your negotiating abilities to get the best deal; generally, a 20 to 50% discount is possible. Bargain to get the best price.
- Schedule your shopping before 7 pm since the shop’s lighting can affect the colour variations of the stuff you buy. The best time would be between 2 pm to 6 pm.
- Be mindful of the crowd in the Bazaar; patience is essential.
- Navigating the tiny bazaar lanes with children can be tiring, due to the limited space. There is a chance of them bumping into people and getting hurt, so if you are travelling with kids, it is best to carry them throughout the journey. or leave them at the hotel or home. They would be happier.
- Visiting Laad Bazaar offers a great chance to take street photographs as well as observe many interesting sights. Even if you don’t buy anything, it is still worth a visit.
- Be vigilant with your possessions, as pickpockets are plentiful – You can also see warnings issued by the local police station.
- Be sure to discuss payment arrangements ahead of time to prevent any issues. Be clear about the mode of payment viz Cash or credit card or UPI Payment
- Right next to the Charminar lies an old cafe, the Nimrah Bakery. It serves some delicious Irani tea and Osmania biscuits. Make sure to have them. These are Hyderabadi specialties.
- Remember to visit the Mecca Masjid and Chowmahalla Palace which are close by. Mecca Masjid was constructed in the year 1617 by Sultan Muhammad Qutb Shah, the sixth Qutb Shahi king to ward off a curse on the King’s son. And Chowmahalla Palace was the official residence of the Nizams while they were ruling Hyderabad. Visit the palace to get an inside glimpse into the life of the Nizams of Hyderabad, one of the richest families, on planet earth.
Address:
Laad Bazar
Char Kaman,
Ghansi Bazaar,
Hyderabad,
Telangana – 500002
Timings:
11:00 am – 11:00 pm on all days
Entry Fees:
Free
What to do next?
Check out my blog on 41 amazing places to visit in Hyderabad
