Regarding tourist attractions in Hyderabad, Charminar is the first place that comes to people’s minds. Its eccentric charm not only lies in the structure but also in the accessory experiences that you get to explore in the surroundings. Shopping in Charminar is one of the absolute highlights of every traveller’s visit. The bustling markets, varying elements of surprise, and affordable items make up for your time there. On your next visit to Charminar, step out of the ordinary exploration and stop buying things from the different markets around the monument.
Top Places For Shopping In Charminar
There are markets immediately outside Charminar and a few minutes’ walk from the monument. Either way, each market is worth exploring, especially since its list of items available is unique. Here is the curated list of markets where you can do shopping in Charminar
1. Laad Bazaar (Choodi Bazaar)
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Among the top places to shop in Charminar, Laad Bazaar is probably the highlight. Alternatively known as Choodi bazaar, it is one of those OG markets that date back to decades. It also happens to be one of the most popular markets across Hyderabad. The market is known for its stunning array of bangles, especially ones made from lacquer, more traditionally called “Laad.” Given its location around Charminar’s perimeter, the market is congested with shops set up one after the other in narrow lanes. Beyond lacquer bangles, you can find glass and semi-precious stone bangles too.
Address: Char Kaman, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002
What To Buy: Lac bangles, glass bangles, and bangles studded with semi-precious stones and pearls.
Must Read: Nizam Museum
2. Pathar Gatti
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Another iconic market near Charminar that you should consider visiting is Pathar Gatti. If you have heard of Hyderabad and its pearls, this is the market where you get the best collection for a pretty affordable price. It is locally known as “Stone Market” since the building where the market resides is made entirely out of granite stone. It is a two-story building with multiple small and big shops selling pearl accessories. From natural to freshwater and cultured pearls, you can find them all in one of the many shops that are inside the market.
Address: Hyderabad, Telangana 500002
What To Buy: Pearl jewellery, Silver jewellery, Gemstones.
3. Meena Bazaar
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Are you looking to buy sarees in Hyderabad? Look no further than Meena Bazaar, located in Abids, a few kilometres from Charminar. It is one of the best places to shop in Charminar. You will find a wide range of women visiting the market to buy different kinds of sarees, lehengas, and anarkalis, too. In short, anything to do with festive attires and unique and vibrant textiles can be found in this market. Some shops also sell unique, handcrafted items in the market, which adds to its convenience. You can also find shops that sell traditional footwear and jewellery pieces at a pretty reasonable price.
Address: Tilak Rd, Hanuman Tekdi, Abids, Hyderabad, Telangana 500001
What To Buy: Sarees, Handcrafted Jewellery, Footwear, Lehenga, etc.
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4. Moti Chowk
Are you interested in buying organic spices and nuts? If yes, then Moti Chowk is the place you need to be in. It is a lot closer to Laad Bazaar but often quite difficult to pinpoint. Given the remote and secluded location, not many know about this market besides the locals. So, if you want to buy almonds, pistachios, cashews, raisins, and spices from Hyderabad, reach Laad Bazaar and ask one of the locals for directions to Moti Chowk. They should be able to guide you on the same. You can either walk there or take an auto rickshaw for convenience.
Address: Near Laad Bazaar, Charminar
What To Buy: Dry fruits, Spices, Nuts.
5. Shahran Market
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This is a famous market near Charminar dedicated to selling burqas and abayas. In addition to these traditional pieces of clothing, the market also sells a variety of other textiles and fabrics, including sarees and kurtas. The market is known for its intricate zardozi work, chikankari, and other forms of traditional embroidery. You can also find bridal wear and accessories. However, most of the shops in the market specialize in selling abayas, which is why the market is more commonly known as “Abayas Market.”
Address: 9F7G+R82, Shahran market Kunche naseem Charminar, Telangana 500002
What To Buy: Abayas, Burqas, Sarees, Kurtas
Suggested Read: Trekking Near Hyderabad
6. Sultan Bazaar
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Regarded as one of the oldest markets in Hyderabad, Sultan Bazaar is known for its collection of commercial goods. You can find contemporary and traditional goods, including second-hand books, relics, and antiques. Beyond that, the market also has wholesale sellers of fabrics, textiles, readymade items, etc. All in all, it is a pretty comprehensive and one-stop destination if you are interested in buying commercial items in one place. There is an extensive range of shops and stalls, so you need to visit with some time in handy.
Address: Between Abids and Koti.
What To Buy: Fabrics, ready-made garments, shoes, bags, and stationery.
7. Madina Building
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The Madina Building is another popular place to shop in the Charminar area. It is located near Charminar and has a rich history associated with its existence. It dates back to the 7th century during Nizam rule, when the building was built to service Hajj pilgrims. Today, it is a famous building that houses a wide range of shops selling textiles and readymade garments at an affordable price. You can find various unique textiles, including silk, cotton, and synthetic. Some shops sell a wide range of shops selling readymade garments, traditional Indian wear, and bridal wear.
Address: 86, High Court Rd, Madina Market, Rikab Gunj, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002
What To Buy: Fabrics, readymade garments, traditional Indian wear, and bridal wear.
Suggested Read: Sanjeevaiah Park
8. Perfume Market (ITR Market)
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Located between Charminar and Moti Chowk, Perfume Market is one of the most unique places you can visit in Hyderabad. The market is renowned for its famous non-alcoholic perfumes, aka Itr. The best part about visiting this market is the customizable approach. You can customize any scent that you want. In these markets, you can find everything from traditional ITR in a bottle to buying incense sticks and essential oils. Some popular fragrances there include rose, jasmine, sandalwood, and oud.
Address: Laad Bazaar, near Charminar, Hyderabad
What To Buy: ITR, Incense Sticks.
9. Moazzam Jahi Market
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A short walk from Charminar lies the Moazzam Jahi Market, a wholesale fruit and flowers market in Hyderabad. The shops come to life every morning, selling traditional sweets and confectionaries. However, this market highlights the wide range of fruits you can buy from there at wholesale rates. You can find a wide range of seasonal fruits and colourful flowers in the array of shops that line the market. There are a handful of shops selling dry fruits and spices, too.
Address: Mojamjahi markit, 34, Mukarram Jahi Rd, Chandra Vihar, Hanuman Tekdi, Abids, Hyderabad, Telangana 500001
What To Buy: Fresh fruits, flowers, sweets.
Further Read: Weekend Getaways From Hyderabad
Shopping in Charminar is part of the experience of exploring this historical place in Hyderabad. As you make your way through one of the many shops around, one thing is for sure: you have to prioritise planning this ahead of time. The main reason behind that is the fast-paced actions around these shops. The narrow lanes will perplex you if you don’t proceed with a proper action plan. So, on your next trip to Hyderabad, spending a few days exploring the nearby shops is vital.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Shopping In Charminar
What are the top things to buy in Charminar?
Among the list of top things to buy in Charminar, bangles, jewelry, spices, dry fruits, and antiques are a few of the options worth considering.
What is the best time to visit Charminar for shopping?
The best time to visit Charminar for shopping is in the evening when the market is fully operational and beautifully lit up. You can visit during the late afternoon if you want less crowds.
Can I find modern clothing and accessories in Charminar?
While Charminar is known for traditional goods, some markets like Sultan Bazaar offer a mix of contemporary and traditional items.
Are there any good places to eat near Charminar?
Once you finish your shopping spree in Charminar, there are several eateries, restaurants, and cafes around the place to have some food.
What should I be aware of when buying pearls in Pathar Gatti?
Ensure you are buying genuine pearls by asking for a certificate of authenticity. It's also helpful to educate yourself about the different types of pearls and their characteristics.
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