Hyderabad is a city with a rich history, and that history is reflected in its many markets and shopping areas.
But Hyderabad’s old city is in a different league altogether. It is a shopper’s paradise both for locals and tourists alike. The market in and around Charminar, in the old city of Hyderabad, is known for its Pearls, Textiles, Embroidered sarees and materials, imitation jewellery, Lacquer Bangles, Laces, and Attar/Ithar, and shopping at Charminar can be a surreal and an exciting experience altogether.
Bargaining is the norm, and it’s not uncommon to see shopkeepers and customers haggling over prices. Just be sure to haggle with a smile and you’re sure to get a great deal. The atmosphere is lively and vibrant, and it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of it all.
But remember to go late n the day as the shops in this area usually open around 11 in the morning. It is advisable to dress modestly and wear light and breezy clothes as it can get quite warm during the day. It is also helpful to wear comfortable footwear because there would be a lot of walking involved.
Bangles at Laad Bazaar / Choodi Bazaar
Laad Bazaar which is also known as the choodi bazaar is one of the oldest bazaars in Hyderabad. History has it that it dates back to the Qutub Shahi and the Nizams. The story is that the ruler Qutub Shah set up this market at the time of his daughter’s wedding. This ancient market is located around Charminar.
The market is especially popular with women, who come from all over to purchase bangles of all colours, sizes, and designs. The famous lacquer bangles come in different varieties which are either made of glass or studded with stones. It is said that If you can’t get a bangle you like in this bazaar then you can’t get it anywhere in the world
Stores you should visit:
Zohra Bangles
Sajni Bangles Jewellery & Pearls
Safa Bangles & Jewellers
Noori Bangles & Jewellers
Attar / Perfumes
Attar shops are a common sight in the old city of Hyderabad. Many of these shops are family-run businesses and have been passed down from generation to generation. You will find many of these shops selling spurious perfumes hence we suggest that you be cautious and try out the original ones. If you’re looking for something specific, the shopkeepers will often be able to help you find it.
Stores:
Gulnar Co. Perfumers
Bhojani Perfumes & Attars
Attar Traders
Famous Perfumery Center
Pearls discovery
Old City Hyderabad is home to a number of pearl shops, where you can find a wide variety of pearls on offer from the very expensive to the more affordable. You can find all sorts of shapes, colours, and sizes of pearls in these shops. If you are looking for a special gift for someone, or just want to treat yourself, then a visit to one of these shops is a must.
Stores:
Modi Pearls
Shubam Pearls And Jewellery
Laxminarayan & Co Charminar
Ocean Pearls & Jewellers
Lace shopping
Lace shops are a common sight in the old city of Hyderabad. These shops sell a variety of laces, from simple to ornate, and are a popular destination for shoppers. From delicate hand-embroidered pieces to intricate machine-made designs, there is something for everyone at these shops. Whether you are looking for a traditional Indian design or something more modern, you are sure to find it at one of these stores.
Stores:
Kamal Jari And Lace Merchant
Kishanlal Ramnivas Kasat
Lace Shop Charminar
Textile shopping
Old city has a number of cloth shops, which sell a wide range of fabrics. These shops are a great place to find traditional fabrics associated with Hyderabad, like the Khada dupattas, Sarees and material with zardozi work, and traditional hand-embroidered dress material. If you’re looking for a special fabric for a special occasion, or just want to browse a wide selection of fabrics, the old city of Hyderabad is the place to go.
Stores:
Kamal Cloth Stores
Irfan Textiles
Be sure to add shopping in the old city to your list of things to do in Hyderabad. The shops are generally small and family-run, so you can expect great customer service. bargaining is standard practice, so don’t be afraid to haggle for a better price. There are also a lot of shops to choose from, so you can find what you need without any trouble.
What to do next?
Check out my blog on 41 Amazing Places You Can’t Afford To Miss In Hyderabad
