Shopping in Kolkata is one of the best experiences you can have. The bustling city not only offers you the best shopping spots and rich varieties to choose from but is also friendly to your pocket. Check this list of best shopping destinations in Kolkata to have an amazing experience.
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See also: Tourist places to visit near Kolkata for a short vacation
How to reach Kolkata?
By air: The Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) in Kolkata is well-connected to major cities in India and around the world.
By rail: Kolkata is connected to the Indian Railways network, with Howrah Junction and Sealdah being the two major railway stations.
By road: You can also reach Kolkata by intercity or long-distance buses. Several private and state-run bus operators provide services between Kolkata and other cities in the region. If you prefer to drive, you can reach Kolkata by road. National Highways and expressways connect the city to various parts of India.
By water: Kolkata is situated along the Hooghly River and has a port. While not commonly used for passenger travel, there are some ferry services that connect Kolkata to nearby locations along the river.
Best destinations for shopping in Kolkata
Hatibagan Market
Address- 122, Shri Aurobindo Sarani Rd, Manicktala, Shyam Bazar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700006
Timings- 10:30 AM – 10 PM
Famous for- Movie theatres, historic theatres, silk saris, cotton saris, home furnishing, street food, etc
Hatibagan Market is close to Shyam Bazar and is the go-to stop for all shopping needs. One can find amazing saris at affordable prices, and other items too are budget-friendly. It also offers lip-smacking street food like chaat and phuchkas. Make sure you go there with ample time in hand because this area is bustling with crowds most of the time.
New Market
Address- 19, Nellie Sen Gupta Sarani, d-twenty three, New Market Area, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal 700087
Timings- 10:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Famous for- Clothing, electronics, makeup, jewellery, footwear, home decor, etc.
This place is known for the variety it offers all year long. The prices are also pocket-friendly. They even have some branded shops in the area. Wristwatches, sunglasses, sandals, kurtas, home decor and whatnot, you will find it all here. It even sells handicrafts.
City Centre
Address- DC Block, Sector 1, Bidhannagar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700064
Timings- 11 AM- 9 PM
Famous for – Stores like Pantaloons, Rene, Fab India, restaurants
This family destination is your Sunday spot for movies and some shopping. They have beautiful upscale boutiques and amazing fine-dining restaurants. If you’re looking for branded apparel, you will find it all here.
South City Mall
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Address- 375, Prince Anwar Shah Rd, South City Complex, Jadavpur, Kolkata, West Bengal 700068
Timings- 11 AM-10:30 PM
Famous for- Food court, shopping, movie theatre, stores like Zara, Forever 21
This shopping mall covers 1,000,000 square foot, and houses some of the most popular brands like Zara, Forever21, Pantaloons, etc. It also has a gaming zone for both kids and adults to relax and enjoy for however long they like. The mall has a multiplex for movie lovers too.
Quest Mall
Address- 33, Beck Bagan Row, Park Circus, Ballygunge, Kolkata, West Bengal 700017
Timings- 11 AM – 10:30 PM
Famous for- the largest apparel store in the city, Lifestyle, INOX cinema, Spencer’s hypermarket, Starmark bookstore, Gucci and Emporio Armani
If you’re looking for luxury shopping, then this mall is the place to be. It is also known as the largest international mall of Kolkata. And yes, it, too, has game zones, a multiplex, restaurants and a food court.
Dakshinapan
Address- Dakshinapan Market, Dhakuria, Kolkata, West Bengal 700068
Timings- 11 AM- 8 PM
Famous for- Handlooms, handicrafts, textiles, furniture, imitation jewellery
This is an open-air cultural spot cum shopping centre where you can buy handicrafts and artefacts. Its theatres host dramas, dances, recitals, etc., by leading artists and theatre groups.
College Street
Address- 48-42, College St, Newland, Calcutta Medical College, College Square, Kolkata, West Bengal 700073
Famous for- Affordable books, second-hand books, being visited by eminent literati of the city
For the bibliophiles, this place is heaven. You can acquire books at pocket-friendly prices if you’re skilled in bargaining. You might also bag some of the first editions of iconic writers. It is also credited as the world’s largest book market. Locals call it by the name ‘Boi Para’.
Gariahat Market
Address- Market Complex, Gariahat Rd, Rash Behari Ave, Kolkata, West Bengal 700019
Famous for- Bengal cotton saree, gold jewellery, eateries, salwar kameez, movie halls
Gariahat Market is known as one of the best shopping markets in Kolkata, and it is always crowded and busy. Also known as Triangular Park, this market lives up to its name with iconic sarees and affordable shops. You can also grab a bite at the eateries.
FAQs
What are the best shopping markets in Kolkata?
Kolkata offers a variety of shopping markets to cater to different preferences. Some popular ones include New Market, College Street for books, Gariahat Market, and Dakshinapan Shopping Center for traditional crafts.
What can I buy at New Market in Kolkata?
New Market, also known as Hogg Market, is a famous shopping destination where you can find a wide range of items, including clothing, accessories, electronics, home goods and more. It's known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse selection of products.
Where can I shop for traditional Indian clothing in Kolkata?
You can find traditional Indian clothing such as sarees, salwar suits and kurtas at markets like Gariahat, New Market and Dakshinapan Shopping Center. These markets offer a variety of options at different price points.
Is Kolkata a good place to buy handicrafts and local crafts?
Yes, Kolkata is a great place to buy handicrafts and local crafts. Dakshinapan Shopping Center is particularly known for offering a variety of traditional Indian handicrafts, textiles, jewellery and more.
What can I buy at College Street in Kolkata?
What is the best time to go shopping in Kolkata?
Most shops in Kolkata open around 10:00 AM and close by 8:00 PM. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. The festive season, especially during Durga Puja, is a popular time for shopping due to special offers and discounts.
Is bargaining common in Kolkata markets?
Yes, bargaining is common in many markets in Kolkata, especially in markets like Gariahat and New Market. However, in fixed-price shops and malls, bargaining might not be as effective.
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