Mumbai is a shopaholic’s haven, offering several wholesale markets where one can find everything from textiles and electronics to jewellery and accessories at unbeatable prices.
These markets form the lifeline of the city’s economy, acting as vibrant hubs where a multitude of goods change hands daily. From spices and textiles to electronics and diamonds, Mumbai’s wholesale markets offer a diverse array of products that attract buyers from across the nation and even international shores. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top wholesale markets in Mumbai.
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How to reach Mumbai?
By air: The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (Mumbai Airport) is one of India’s busiest airports, with both domestic and international flights. You can book a flight to Mumbai from various cities within India or from international destinations.
By rail: Mumbai has a well-developed railway network, and there are several trains connecting Mumbai to various parts of the country. The main railway stations in Mumbai are the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) and Mumbai Central.
By road: The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and private bus operators run buses to Mumbai from neighbouring states and cities. Luxury and regular buses are available depending on your budget and preference.
You can also reach Mumbai by car. National highways connect Mumbai to various parts of India. However, keep in mind that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours.
By sea: Mumbai has a major seaport, and some cruise liners also offer services to Mumbai from other coastal cities or international ports.
Top wholesale markets in Mumbai
Gandhi Market
Gandhi Market, located in Sion, is a wholesale market in Mumbai that specialises in women’s fashion and stands as one of Mumbai’s most popular cloth markets. This vibrant marketplace is a one-stop destination for all your traditional and Indian clothing needs, offering a wide range of salwars, dresses, lehengas, sarees, anarkalis, and more. Bargaining is a skill that comes in handy here, as it can save you money and score you better deals. Keep in mind that most shops in Gandhi Market are closed on Mondays.
How to get there: The market is conveniently accessible by train, being just a short walk away from Kings Circle station. Alternatively, you can take a cab from Dadar station.
Crawford Market
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Crawford Market, often regarded as Mumbai’s most-visited market, lives up to its reputation as the go-to place for virtually everything you need. From wedding supplies and imported fruits to beauty products and utensils, this market caters to all kinds of shopping requirements. The market boasts dedicated lanes for each product category, ensuring you find fresh supplies at reasonable prices, particularly when buying in bulk.
Known for: Crockery, artificial flowers, and wholesale makeup stores.
How to get there: The nearest railway stations to Crawford Market are Marine Lines and Churchgate.
Mulji Jetha Market
Step into the centuries-old Mulji Jetha Market in South Mumbai to explore a treasure trove of high-quality textiles and fabrics. This market is renowned for its unique products and fine textures, making it a favoured spot for those seeking distinctive materials. The market’s ambience adds to the experience, with skylights accentuating the charm of its aged ceiling.
Known for: Fabrics
How to get there: Mulji Jetha Market is conveniently close to Crawford Market, and you can walk there if you’re already in the vicinity. Otherwise, you can reach it via Marine Lines, CST, or Masjid Bander stations.
Dadar ‘Phoolgali’
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Dadar’s ‘Phoolgali,’ or flower market, is a captivating place that dazzles with a wide variety of blooms. From local favourites like marigolds and roses to exotic blooms like lilies, you can find every type of flower imaginable. Whether you need a special strand for a date or plan to decorate your home with wholesale orders, Dadar ‘Phoolgali’ has got you covered.
Known for: Every type of flower!
How to get there: Dadar ‘Phoolgali’ is conveniently located opposite the Dadar station, making it easily accessible.
Chor Bazaar
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Chor Bazaar, deriving its name from ‘Shor’ Bazaar due to its noisy auctions, is the place to visit for antique enthusiasts. This market offers an array of woodwork and metal art pieces, all available at bargain prices. If you want to adorn your new home or simply desire a unique novelty, Chor Bazaar will not disappoint.
Known for: Vintage, junk, antiques, hardware, and metal.
How to get there: Tucked away in busy Mohammed Ali Road, the fastest way to reach Chor Bazaar is from the CST station, which is about half an hour away.
Lamington Road
Considered the technology hub of Mumbai, Lamington Road is the go-to place for all your electronic needs. Whether you require spare adapters, power supplies for your office space, phone repairs, or laptop data restoration, this market has everything you need. It is a haven for tech enthusiasts, offering everything from wristwatches to high-end servers.
Known for: Electronics
How to get there: The nearest station to Lamington Road is Grant Road, and the location is well-connected via buses.
Lohar Chawl
Located in Kalbadevi, Lohar Chawl is a treasure trove of dazzling lights that can brighten up any space. Whether you’re setting up a new home or renovating your office, you’ll find every type of light with a wide variety and intensity, all available at different price points.
Known for: Quirky lights
How to get there: It’s best to take a direct cab to Lohar Chawl, or you can get off at the nearest Marine Lines station.
Musafir Khana
Situated next to Crawford Market, Musafir Khana specialises in crockery, Chinaware, kitchen essentials, and utensils at budget-friendly rates. From elegant silver trays to unique plates, this market offers a wide range of crockery items that you can proudly display.
Known for: Crockery
How to get there: Get off at the Marine Lines station and take a cab or share a cab to reach Musafir Khana.
Dharavi Leather Market
Dharavi Leather Market is home to the largest leather market in Mumbai, offering a vast selection of leather goods. Whether you’re looking for stylish backpacks, chic leather jackets, trendy belts, or comfortable shoes, this market spoils you with choices, all without burning a hole in your pocket.
Known for: Leather goods
How to get there: The best way to reach Dharavi Leather Market is by train. Get off at Mahim station (for western) or Sion (for central), and then take a rickshaw or a cab to your destination.
FAQs
What are the best wholesale markets in Mumbai?
Mumbai boasts several excellent wholesale markets catering to diverse shopping needs. Some of the best ones include Crawford Market for a wide range of products, Gandhi Market for fabrics and traditional Indian clothing, and Chor Bazaar for vintage decor and antiques.
What can I find at Mumbai's wholesale markets?
Mumbai's wholesale markets offer a diverse array of products, from fabrics and clothing to crockery, electronics, leather goods, quirky lights, etc.
Are the wholesale markets in Mumbai open to the general public?
Yes, most of the wholesale markets in Mumbai are open to the general public. While some markets may have specific hours or days when they cater primarily to wholesalers, they usually welcome individual buyers as well.
How can I reach the wholesale markets in Mumbai?
Mumbai's wholesale markets are easily accessible via various modes of transportation. Many of them are close to railway stations, making train travel a convenient option. Additionally, you can use cabs, buses, or rickshaws to reach these markets.
Can I buy in bulk at Mumbai's wholesale markets?
Mumbai's wholesale markets are designed to cater to bulk purchases.
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