Exploring the Markets of Udaipur: Where Tradition Meets Style
Exploring the Markets of Udaipur: Where Tradition Meets Style
Udaipur, often called the “City of Lakes,” is not just known for its scenic beauty and royal palaces.
It’s also a shopper’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for handmade crafts, colourful textiles, or
fine jewellery, the markets of Udaipur offer something special for everyone.
This blog takes you through some of the most popular markets in Udaipur and what they’re best
known for. If you’re visiting or just love exploring world cultures, these insights will give you a
feel of what makes shopping in Udaipur truly unique.
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Hathi Pol Bazaar – A Haven for Art Lovers
Famous for: Miniature Paintings, Traditional Art, Wooden Handicrafts
Hathi Pol is one of the most visited markets in Udaipur. It’s well-known for its traditional Rajasthani miniature paintings. These paintings are made by local artists using natural colours and fine brushes. Many shops here also sell wooden artefacts, colourful puppets, and wall hangings that can brighten up any space.
The art here is not just decorative—it carries history and meaning. You’ll find many pieces inspired by royal processions, mythological stories, and the lifestyle of old Udaipur.
Best-Selling Article: Handmade miniature paintings on silk and handmade paper -
hBada Bazaar – The Blend of Colour and Culture
Famous for: Traditional Jewellery, Mojris (Ethnic Footwear), Bandhani Sarees
Located in the heart of the city, Bada Bazaar is lively and full of colour. It’s a great place for picking up traditional silver jewellery and Rajasthani-style mojris, which are handcrafted leather shoes with embroidered detailing.
Another highlight is the collection of Bandhani sarees and dupattas. Bandhani is a type of tie-dye fabric known for its bright colours and dotted patterns. Even if you’re not into ethnic wear, the fabric makes for beautiful scarves or cushion covers.
Best-Selling Article: Silver earrings and colourful mojris -
Clock Tower Market – Udaipur’s Traditional Touchpoint
Famous for: Lac Bangles, Metalware, Decorative Boxes
The Clock Tower area is one of the oldest market spots in the city. It's best known for its lacquer (lac) bangles—shiny, colourful, and available in every possible design. You’ll also find brass and copper items here, like bowls, trays, and beautifully carved boxes.
What makes this market unique is its old-world charm. The narrow streets and friendly shopkeepers make shopping here feel like a warm, personal experience.
Best-Selling Article: Lac bangles in custom colour combinations -
Shilpgram – The Cultural Craft Village
Famous for: Handwoven Textiles, Pottery, Folk Art
Shilpgram, located a bit outside the main city, is a rural arts and crafts village. It’s not a typical market, but more of a cultural space where artisans from across the region gather to display their work.
The market here is best for handloom products—rugs, cushions, and stoles with natural dyes and unique patterns. You can also watch potters at work and pick up one-of-a-kind pieces for your home.
Best-Selling Article: Handwoven woollen rugs and block-printed stoles -
Chetak Circle – For Unique Gifting Items
Famous for: Traditional Toys, Marble Crafts, Decorative Frames
If you're looking for small souvenirs or classy gifts, Chetak Circle is the place to go. The market is full of creative home décor items like marble animal figurines, hand-painted frames, and quirky keychains.
You’ll also find traditional musical instruments, metal statues, and painted bottles. It’s a good place to pick up something light and beautiful to take back home.
Best-Selling Article: Marble elephants and painted wooden toys -
Jagdish Chowk – For Leather and Paper Goods
Famous for: Handmade Leather Journals, Vintage Bags, Pichwai Paintings
This market is located near the famous Jagdish Temple. It’s a calm, less crowded area where you can find quality leather goods—like journals, laptop bags, and wallets. The leather used is soft and dyed naturally, often with a vintage finish.
You’ll also come across beautiful Pichwai paintings—large, detailed artworks usually depicting Lord Krishna, ideal for wall décor.
Best-Selling Article: Vintage-style leather journals with hand-stitched binding -
Bapu Bazaar – Udaipur’s Everyday Market
Famous for: Home Essentials, Kitchenware, School Supplies
Bapu Bazaar is more of a local’s market, where people go for everyday needs. But for a visitor, it’s an interesting place to explore what modern Udaipur looks like. You’ll find shops selling stainless steel items, school bags, and modern clothing too.
It may not have as many handicrafts, but it gives you a feel of local life and modern shopping styles in the city.
Best-Selling Article: Stainless steel kitchen sets and colourful school bags
Why UK Visitors Love Udaipur’s Markets
For many travellers from the UK, Udaipur’s markets offer more than just products. They offer
stories. A hand-painted box isn’t just pretty—it’s made by someone whose family has done this
work for generations. A scarf isn’t just colourful—it’s dyed by hand, dried in the sun, and printed
with love.
These markets reflect slow fashion, mindful gifting, and thoughtful design—something many UK
shoppers truly value today.
Shopping Tips for Visitors
- Cash is king: While some places accept cards, many smaller stalls deal only in cash. Keep some rupees handy.
- Bargaining is okay: Don’t be afraid to politely negotiate. It’s expected in most local shops.
- Support local: Look for items that are handmade or locally produced. Your purchase helps keep old crafts alive.
- Carry a tote bag: Many vendors now avoid plastic. A reusable bag makes things easier.
Shopping in Udaipur is not just about buying things — it’s about taking home a piece of culture.
From handmade journals and block-printed textiles to silver jewellery and folk art, each item has
its own story, rooted in care and tradition.
Whether you’re strolling through a busy street or browsing a quiet craft stall, the markets of
Udaipur offer a warm, colourful, and truly memorable experience. So next time you’re here, skip
the mall — and let the local lanes lead you to something special
