Banaras shopping offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors, with each turn revealing a glimpse of the city's rich heritage and craftsmanship. The narrow lanes are packed with vibrant stalls selling everything from the famous Banarasi silk sarees, known for their intricate designs and rich texture, to hand-carved wooden toys that are perfect for unique gifts. As you explore, you'll also come across beautifully crafted glass beads and brassware that highlight the city's long-standing tradition of artistry.
Shopping in Banaras is unlike any other, offering treasures that carry the soul of this ancient city. Whether you're looking for traditional Banarasi sarees, brassware, or intricate wooden toys, each market in Varanasi has something unique to offer.
Purchasing things here is an adventure that takes you through the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Known for its spiritual aura, the city is equally famous for its handicrafts, textiles, and street shopping experiences. As you navigate through the various markets, you'll shop and dive into the city's vibrant culture and history.
It features the must-visit markets, their timings, and the unique items you can find only in this mystical city.
If you're after something that captures the craftsmanship of Banaras, Thatheri Bazaar is a great place to start. Known for its high-quality brassware, this market has everything from traditional kitchen utensils to detailed idols and decor pieces. The metalwork here is part of the city's long-standing tradition, passed down through generations, making it an authentic stop for anyone interested in Banaras shopping. Whether you're picking up something small or a statement piece, you'll find an array of beautifully crafted items that reflect the city's artistic heritage.
Brass utensils, decorative brass items, traditional lamps, idols of deities.
10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
The artisans here are true custodians of an age-old tradition. They often work on the streets outside their small workshops, hammering brass into intricate designs with a precision that is both mesmerising and humbling. Watching them at work as you shop is an experience in itself.
Near the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Vishwanath Gali is a vibrant market serving pilgrims and shoppers alike. This narrow lane has small shops selling everything from religious paraphernalia to local snacks. As you enter the crowd, you'll find yourself surrounded by stalls offering silk fabrics, rudraksha beads, and brass idols.
Banarasi sarees, prayer items, brass idols, silk stoles, rudraksha beads.
8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
There's something deeply spiritual about shopping here. The proximity to Kashi Vishwanath Temple means you'll see devotees shopping for prayer essentials alongside you. The market's energy, filled with prayers and the chiming of temple bells, adds a unique spiritual touch to your Banaras shopping experience.
One of the busiest markets in Varanasi, Godowlia, is where the old meets the new. You can find everything here, from traditional Banarasi textiles to modern gadgets and electronics. This is the perfect market for those who want a little bit of everything. The bustling atmosphere, filled with rickshaws, vendors, and shoppers, makes it a quintessential Varanasi experience.
Banarasi sarees, street food, perfumes, bangles, glass beads.
9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Strolling through Godowlia can feel overwhelming with its bustling crowd, but it's the heart and soul of Kashi’s shopping experience. Don't forget to stop by one of the street food stalls to grab some crispy kachoris, samosas or jalebis. The chatter of locals, the call of vendors, and the smell of delicious street snacks make shopping here a celebration of life.
Located near the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat, this market in Banaras is a popular spot for tourists and locals. It offers religious items, souvenirs, and traditional Banarasi products. The evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a major attraction, and the market comes alive before and after this daily ritual.
Handcrafted wooden toys, brass utensils, Banarasi sarees, local handicrafts.
9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
This market is a favourite for those looking to take home a piece of Varanasi's spiritual essence. After attending the breathtaking Ganga Aarti, wandering through the market and picking up some handcrafted souvenirs feels like extending the spiritual journey. The energy here is electric yet calming, a beautiful paradox that defines Banaras.
Banarasi sarees are synonymous with Varanasi, and Lahurabir is one of the best places to shop for these exquisite pieces. The artisans here create some of the finest silk sarees in India, known for their intricate zari work and rich textures. Whether you're looking for a wedding saree or a traditional gift, Lahurabir is the place to be.
Banarasi silk sarees, silk stoles, dupattas, lehengas.
10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
The artisans in Lahurabir weave magic into silk, turning a piece of fabric into something that feels alive. Shopping here gives you the chance to witness their incredible craftsmanship up close. Banaras shopping is more than just buying products; it's about experiencing the city's rich culture and heritage. Don't hesitate to chat with the sellers about the history of Banarasi silk; they are often eager to share the legacy of their work.
The Chowk area is a treasure trove for those interested in traditional Banarasi crafts, including handloom textiles and wooden toys. This market is also known for its antique shops, where rare artifacts and collectibles are found. The narrow lanes are filled with stalls offering everything from textiles to spices and street food, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.
Banarasi sarees, wooden toys, handicrafts, spices.
10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Chowk is where you'll find old-world charm mingling with everyday life in Varanasi. Here, artisans carve intricate wooden toys and traders haggle over vibrant textiles. It's a market that embodies the city's soul—steeped in tradition, yet always evolving. Shopping here feels like stepping back in time, with every item telling a story.
If you want to experience a more rustic side of Banaras shopping, head to Ramnagar Market. Located near the Ramnagar Fort, this market offers a range of local products, including pottery, jute items, and traditional Banarasi sweets. It's less crowded than the city center markets and provides a more laid-back shopping experience.
Pottery, jute bags, traditional sweets (like peas and laddoo).
9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Ramnagar Market offers a slower pace, making it ideal for a leisurely shopping experience. Locals often bargain with vendors while children play with handmade toys. It's a market that retains the charm of a small-town bazaar, giving you a taste of Varanasi's more rural side.
Known for their intricate gold and silver brocade work, Banarasi silk sarees are a must-buy when shopping in Varanasi. These sarees are often passed down through generations and are treasured for their craftsmanship.
Varanasi’s Markets are famous for their hand-carved wooden toys. Often painted in bright colours, these toys are made using traditional techniques preserved over centuries.
If you are going for Banaras shopping, remember the unique glass beads. These beads are used in jewellery, embroidery, and home decor items and are popular among designers and artisans.
Whether it's a traditional lamp or a decorative item, the brassware from Banaras is known for its durability and beauty. The designs often carry religious motifs, making them ideal souvenirs for those looking to take home a piece of the city's spiritual heritage
Varanasi is one of the few places where traditional perfumes, or itar, are still made using age-old methods. These natural, alcohol-free fragrances are perfect for those looking for something unique and authentic.
Shopping in Banaras is more than just a transactional experience; it's a dive into the city's heart. From the bustling markets of Godowlia to the artisan corners of Chowk and Lahurabir, each market offers unique craftsmanship, culture, and community flavours. Whether buying a Banarasi saree, a brass lamp, or a handful of fragrant spices, you're not just shopping—you're becoming a part of the city's rich history and culture.
So, the next time you're in Varanasi, don't just visit the temples—make time for the markets. They're a vital part of the city's soul, and shopping here will leave you with memories and treasures that last a lifetime.
After a fulfilling day of shopping in the vibrant markets of Varanasi, unwind in the serene ambience of Stay Banaras. Located in the city's heart, this place offers a blend of traditional Indian aesthetics with contemporary comforts, making it the perfect retreat.
Whether you're relaxing in one of our bespoke, minimalistic rooms or enjoying a delicious meal prepared with locally sourced ingredients, Stay Banaras provides an oasis of calm amidst the city's hustle. With its personalized service, beautiful garden spaces, and attention to detail, Stay Banaras is more than just a hotel—it's an experience that will make your trip even more memorable, from spiritual aspects to Banaras shopping and food and much more.