Chennai is one of the most visited tourist destinations in South India and numerous reasons contribute to this aspect. Its rich culture, delicious local cuisines, attractive spots and fun activities are some of the reasons why the place has such popularity. But did you know that Chennai is also famous for its incredible shopping places situated on its lane? Well, if you are shocked to know that, trust me, so was I.
When I first toured this place, I only had the intention to visit its attractive tourist spots but as soon as I reached the shopping stalls on the market caught my attention and I couldn’t control myself but got authentic products at cheap rates on my way back home. I purchased fashionable lehengas, footwear and colourful handbags at unbelievable prices. So, next time if you come here, do visit these shopping markets in Chennai and quench the shopaholic in you. The travel guide below will help you select the best markets for your shopping in the city. If travelling from Bangalore as I did, do make sure to checkout the official website of Intermiles, to avail of extra discounts on Bangalore to Chennai flights and get your tickets booked in advance. Now let’s check out some of the most famous street shopping destinations that this South Indian city has to offer.
Pondy bazaar
Pondy Bazaar, located in the central part of Chennai, is regarded as the “Mecca” of shopping. If you are in a shopping spree mood, then this place is apt for you. You can find fashionable clothes, handbags, accessories, footwear and many other items in this market. Besides all the trendy dresses and stationery, you can also buy a modern case for your new mobile phone and some recent movie DVDs and watch them at your home theatre. This bazaar also houses various famous brands that you can buy if you have some extra cash to splurge. Apart from that, you can also taste some of the lip-smacking dishes in the restaurants nearby to revive yourself from an exhausting shopping day.
Sowcarpet Market
Sowcarpet Market in George town is the second choice for all Chennaiites and tourists to experience a shopping adventure. For street shopping, this market is the perfect place as it has everything that you can think about. This under-a-one-roof market is famous for modern dupattas, cholis, lehengas and trendy junk jewellery. You can also buy some stylish sling bags and trinkets for parties and festivals. There are ample stores that sell various home decor items for giving a charming look to your house. Pro tip: Remember to bargain while you are shopping here for attaining the best possible deals.
Ritchie Street
Wondering where to go for electronic products in Chennai, then nothing beats Ritchie Street. You can find a huge array of electronic goods here, like computers, CCTV cameras, mobiles, phone batteries and numerous other electronic materials. This market is one of the oldest shopping places in Chennai that offers lucrative deals and you might get a chance to purchase a phone or a TV at the lowest price. Since this place remains crowded on all days of the week due to its immense demand, reach the place early in the morning to buy your favourite goods.
Panagal Market
Panagal Market, situated near the Usman Road in Chennai, is a one-stop destination for every woman. This place is famous for its amazing collection of gold jewellery and silk sarees. You can also find a large collection of ethnic costumes. While you are here, do not forget to buy Kanjeevaram saree from this place as it is a hub of authentic South Indian silk sarees. If you are planning for budget-friendly shopping, then this place is just for you!
Parry’s Corner
This sprawling marketplace is the centre for a range of things starting from fresh flowers to contemporary home decor items. The interesting thing about Parry’s Corner is that a specific item is sold in a specific street. Bunder Street sells books of different genres and types and therefore, college students can get their desired book here at wholesale prices. You can also find a plethora of options while shopping for various fabrics and upholstery in Godown street. If you want to buy vibrant flowers to decorate your house, Badrain street has a good collection to choose from. After you are done exploring all the streets of Parry’s corner, you can try out some of their lip-smacking street food in the nearby Mint street.
With all these exciting street shopping markets in Chennai, you will have a fascinating time exploring these places. So, without further delay, pack your luggage and head forth to Chennai and fulfill your shopping temptation by picking coveted items from its street shops.