Delhi, India — Shopping
Shopping in Delhi, India
Gemstones, carpets, antique furniture, handicrafts, fabrics, spices… Delhi is a paradise for shoppers. Be prepared to haggle and remember that everything, apart from goods stocked in government-run shops, is open to negotiation.
Markets
The bazaars that surround Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi offer a colorful, heaving and chaotic slice of Delhi life. This is the Old Town's famed shopping strip leading off to a labyrinthine maze of shops selling everything from fish and poultry to second-hand household products, gemstones, turbans, textiles and even spare car parts. Main Bazaar at Paharganj is the place to pick up cheap t-shirts and more. The covered Gadodial Market is the wholesale spice market, a riot of color and smells, while Chawri Bazaar is packed with shops specializing in wholesale paper ware as well as copper and brass figurines.
Shopping centers
Select CITYWALK is a sprawling behemoth in Sakhet stocking everything from clothes to homeware. Landscaped exteriors, a cinema, restaurants, bars and cafés offer additional distractions. Other shopping malls in Delhi include Ansal Plaza near the South Extension and Metro Walk Mall, which features an amusement park.
Key areas
One of Delhi's most upmarket shopping areas is Khan Market. Expect international brands from Reebok and Adidas to alluring ethnic stores. Among the best are Amrapali, a jewelry emporium, and Anokhi, specializing in hand-printed fabrics and modern ethnic wear. Located in south Delhi, Hauz Khas Village has upmarket furniture, antiques and art shops, along with hip boutiques. The government-run Central Cottage Industries Emporium, on Janpath is well stocked with a wide assortment of handicrafts, textiles and jewelry. The State Emporiums on Baba Kharak Singh Marg showcase products from all over India.
Shopping hours
Most shops in Delhi tend to open around 1000 and close between 1800 and 1900. Some shops close on Sunday.
Tax information
VAT is charged at a standard rate of 12.5% in India – officially. However, in practice, it's only likely that you'll pay this, except in the more expensive shops, hotels and restaurants.
