When visiting the beautiful and exotic Indian city of New Delhi, tourists can understandably be overwhelmed by the sights and sounds, making it hard to focus on what you want to see and do while there. The country has so much to offer, especially when it comes to shopping, tourists often come away having spent money on trinkets they didn’t really want and regretting what they didn’t have a chance to pick up.
Making a plan and sticking to it helps visitors keep from spending hard-earned money on unwanted items and ensuring they get what they came for. After all, for most of us, India is a once-in-a-lifetime trip. We want to make the most of it, right?
It is nearly impossible to visit India with a shopping list of souvenirs you want to get for yourself and your friends and family back home. Colorful bangles, beautiful textiles, intricate wood carvings, marble pieces, artwork, teas — the list goes on and on. Start with a general idea of what you are looking for and how much you plan to spend, then plan specific shopping excursions.
On a recent trip to India, a friend introduced me to Cottage Emporium, a one-stop-shop for all things Indian. A department store-style shopping experience, Cottage Emporium has every type of Indian handicraft imaginable, all made locally and of the highest quality. An entire day can easily be devoted to wandering through the various areas of the store, so you can take your time picking out the perfect souvenirs and gifts. The store is divided into sections (bangles, tableclothes, etc.), so you are able to examine your choices and make your selections — your purchases will be waiting for you at the exit where you can pay for everything at one time. Prices are fixed in this store, but while you miss out on the fun of bargaining, you can enjoy shopping without shop owners pushing you to buy something you are not interested in and you won’t be approached by any beggars or pickpockets.
If you prefer the thrill of haggling for the best prices and working your way through the crowds of people synonymous with New Delhi, then open-air markets are the place for you. Shopping areas such as Rajpath Market and Janpath Market are great places to get whatever you are looking for and do some people watching while you are at it. These open-air markets are fun places to explore even if you aren’t looking to buy something, just keep a close eye on your wallet as they are crowded places and tourists are easy targets for thieves.
Janpath (which means the peoples’ path) is located across from Connaught Place, one of the most famous shopping centers in New Delhi. This shopping destination consists of several blocks of upscale stores that offer the latest fashions and designs in a wide range of prices. Although you won’t be able to bargain with storeowners, you will be able to purchase some of the finest saris and linens available.
Whatever you are looking for in India, you can find it in New Delhi. Putting some thought into your shopping excursions will help you avoid getting carried away while maximizing your budget. No matter what your shopping style, rest assured shopping will be one of the highlights of your trip.
Read This Next
5 Japan Art Festivals to Attend in 2024
Destinations / Asia
Mar 7, 2024#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Mar 26, 2024Spring Adventures in New River Gorge
New River Gorge, America’s newest national park at less than 4 years old, was formed by one of America’s oldest rivers. New River surges through deep canyons, surrounded by a rugged landscape of forests and rock cliffs. Family travelers to this 70,000-acre park will find outdoor sports and adventures for the whole family.
Sponsored Content
Travel Tips to Help Protect Your Health and Your Trip
Five Tips to Help Minimize Potential Travel Problems
North America
Mar 26, 2024Don’t Miss Grande Lakes Orlando’s Modern Willy Wonka Golden Ticket Experience
If you hear the phrase “golden ticket,” you’re apt to think of Willy Wonka and the popular films to have come from the franchise. But did you know Grande Lakes Orlando takes the golden ticket concept one step further? This spring, the popular resort pays homage to the classic film and recent movie Wonka with a one-of-a-kind Golden Ticket Experience.
Destinations / Europe
Mar 25, 2024Unique Shore Excursions on European River Cruises
The appeal of a leisurely cruise along one of Europe’s rivers goes well beyond the beautiful riverside scenery and charming villages along the banks. Daily excursions to nearby landmarks and attractions add historic and cultural dimension to the travel experience for couples and families, and some cruise lines arrange special activities that take passengers deeper inside the destinations.
Sponsored Content
United Airlines Celebrates its First Class of United Aviate Graduates
As the only major U.S. airline to own a flight school, United Airlines already hit a major milestone, and now the carrier celebrates another important — and historic — step as the inaugural class of United Aviate Academy pilots graduates, leading the next generation of aviators. The 51 students in the graduating class were majority, at 80 percent, women and people of color — another stride toward United’s goal of training 5,000 new pilots by 2030 with half women or POC.
Destinations / North America
Mar 25, 2024Top 7 Gardens to Visit in Portland, Oregon
Portland, Oregon, invites family travelers to explore its many gardens this summer.
ShareThis