Here Are The 12 best places to shop for local artistry in Udaipur
Udaipur, a popular city in Rajasthan, isn’t just about its lovely lakes and old streets. Apart from the beautiful scenery, the city also has amazing, age old artistic traditions which are part of its rich history and bring in tourists from all over the world. The artistic legacy of Udaipur can be seen in Picchwai paintings, Tie-and-dye fabrics, which are popularly known as Bandhej, wooden sculptures, showpieces, etc. Every handicraft tells a different story and is the perfect souvenir to take back home.
Generations of skilled artisans have lived here, and the budding artisans are carrying their legacy with the utmost pride. In the era of mass production of contemporary art, Udaipur happily supports local artisans by preserving their traditionally exceptional craftsmanship.Â
Introduction to Udaipur's Artisanal Heritage
From the old city of Udaipur to the latest developments, one can see the rich history and heritage in every carving. The city takes pride in showcasing the craftsmanship on every corner, from forts to the streets and shops of the old city. Owning a piece of any type of artistry is as similar as owning a piece of Rajasthan’s culture & history. Whether it is a piece of fabric or a portrait painting of the Maharaja; it could become a smooth conversation starter. The rich tradition of artistry and craftsmanship in Udaipur is something that never stops evolving, with every passing day, it becomes captivating.Â
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This heavenly place boasts local artisans, as they are the ones who have been preserving the local heritage for decades. The reputed handicraft store showcases and sells these aesthetics, and Udaipur also hosts its annual fair, in the crafts village named Shilpgram, which is the most hyped and loved by tourists. One can say that it is the local artisans who are responsible for preserving the rich cultural and historical heritage of Udaipur.
This blog talks about the markets and places where you can shop for local artistry in Udaipur. Read along to learn about the best places to shop for local artistry in Udaipur.
01. Hathi Pol Bazaar
From branded intricate works to local crafts, you can find them all in this Bazaar. Located at a distance of approx. 4km from the railway station, the bazaar is famous for traditional home decor items, textiles, miniature paintings, pichhwai paintings, and hand paintings on silk. You can purchase them at reasonable prices. If you are travelling by car or a taxi, make sure you park it in a parking spot and prefer to explore the market on foot to avoid getting stuck in the lanes.
02. Bada Bazaar
Popular for street food like Kachoris, Samosas, and Rajasthani sweets, this bazaar is at a distance of 3km from the city railway station. Batik and block prints, Bandhej dupattas, & sarees are also the varieties of vibrant textiles that you can find in this market. The market remains closed on Sundays and is usually open until 8 pm.
03. Mochiwada Bazaar
Looking for Rajasthani Juttis? This bazaar is a part of Bada Bazaar and is famous for Rajasthani juttis and mojdis. From subtle to bright, you can find all types of coloured footwear in this market. It is hardly 1 km from the city palace and remains open from 9:30 am to 8 pm.
06. Jagdish Temple Street
Jagdish Temple Street is a crowded and busiest street in the old city. After you visit the temple, you can explore the street, which is full of oxidised jewellery, antique silver jewellery, handmade diaries, and clothes in a variety of Rajasthani prints. You can buy souvenirs and gifts from here for your loved ones, and it will surely bring a smile to their faces.
05. Ghanta Ghar
Also known as the clock tower area, is at a walkable distance from Jagdish Chowk. Ghanta Ghar flaunts all types of jewelleries, handicrafts, and the stalls serving mouthwatering gol-gappas. Along with the handicrafts made of silver, ivory, brass, etc., you can also fill your tummy with the yummy street food sold by the small vendors. You can spend 2-3 hours in the area, depending on your shopping list. The market shuts down at 8 pm.
06. Shilpgram
Shilpgram is a crafts village that is situated at a distance of 3km from Fateh Sagar. The village displaces an array of traditional artistry and handicrafts. Here you can find all types of rural items, like wooden furniture, handmade paintings and portraits, and pottery items. All these things are made by local artisans and are proudly displayed and sold at the Shilpgram Mela. They are open on weekdays, and you can visit the Mela from 11 am to 7 pm. Moreover, the experience is enhanced by the traditional music being played in the background and the folk dances performed by the local folk dancers.
07. Lake Palace Road
Well-known for wooden statues and embroidered textiles, this market is open on weekdays and is easily accessible by public transport or auto-rickshaws. The shops on the road offer multiple things that reflect handcraft expertise; you may find all the woven and embroidered clothes at pocket-friendly prices. Undoubtedly the best place for shopping in Udaipur, you can also find fabrics and jewellery’s Kundan work, which leaves you awestruck.
08. Bapu Bazaar
Bapu Bazaar is a place where you can find everything; when we say everything, it literally means EVERYTHING. From clothes to crockery to stationery to second-hand books, this market is the go-to place for Udaipurites. Moreover, this is also hyped, as the shops offer the products at quite reasonable prices. It’s one of the most crowded markets and is always buzzing with vehicle horns, people bargaining with the shopkeepers, etc. Do visit there anytime of the week.
09. Sadhna Emporium
Sadhna Emporium is a crafts outlet for Seva Mandir, it’s an NGO that works with rural and tribal people in Rajasthan. It provides an alternative income to the tribal and rural women of Udaipur. This is the most appropriate place for shopping for hand-embroidered clothes, bed sheets, cushion covers, pillow covers, table mats and coasters, table covers, bags and diaries, etc. The prices are lower as compared to the brands, and the prints are extraordinary.
10. Maldas Street
From basic to traditional, you can find every kind of attire in Maldas Street. The prices are reasonable, and you can get lots of clothes in one place. You can get unstitched fabric, pre-stitched blouses, ethnic wear, party wear, and wedding wear without hustling here and there. The variety of clothes will leave you confused, as they are extremely beautiful and made of top-notch material. Prefer to visit this street on weekdays.
11. Tibetan Market
Located right outside of the City Palace is a vast field. This market features woollen clothes sold by Tibetans. You can buy cosy and warm clothes from here during the winter. From hand gloves to shawls, the Tibetan market sells winter wear for kids, women, and men.
12. Ashwini Bazar
This Bazaar is known for a variety of furniture, moto parts, hardware items, light fitting materials, electronic items, sanitary materials, etc, at wholesale prices. It is one of the busiest parts of the town., and is hardly a 3-minute walk from Hathi pol bazaar.
Conclusion
Now you know where you can find the best artistry and handicrafts in Udaipur. The above-mentioned bazaars are the perfect places to buy yourself souvenirs, clothes, paintings, household items, and much more stuff at decent prices. When visiting Udaipur, add these 12 places to your itinerary, because you surely wouldn’t want to miss out on the artistic beauty of this city. In addition, your visit to such places motivates the local artisans for their vibrant cultural work and gives them the boost they need. After all, every piece of art deserves appreciation.
Udaipur not only boasts the lake and history, but it also flaunts the beautiful resorts and villas. You can book your stay at Villa Inn Udaipur, which offers you the most comfortable stay within your budget and provides you with all the lavish amenities.
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