Retail therapy can do wonders to your spirit. And it’s all the more awesome when you manage to get great bargains. No, we are not talking about online shopping. Shopping in the real world in real markets. You might wonder who goes to the markets to shop in this age of online shopping. But wait till you hit one of these amazing Indian markets.

Sarojini Market – Delhi

Delhi is not just the national capital, it’s also shopping central. From the swankiest malls to the quirkiest markets, you will find them all here. Our pick is the super cheap market in Sarojini Nagar. It’s the one-stop shop for every single shopping need. Clothes, bags, shoes, curtains, lanterns, furniture, crockery, vegetables, plants – you name it, you’ll find it here. You will need at least half a day to thoroughly investigate this market. Make sure you carry a water bottle and make little pit stops to gorge on some great chaat and momos in the market.

Bapu Bazaar – Jaipur

The walled city of Jaipur, the old town which houses the city palace and other tourist attractions, is also home to one of the most popular markets – Bapu Bazaar. When you walk down this road, you will understand why Jaipur is referred to as the Pink City. All the buildings here are washed in a uniform shade of pink. This market is where you head to if you are looking at clothes, sarees, home furnishings, jewellery, shoes and so on at wholesale rates.

Laad Bazaar – Hyderabad

This thriving market close to the historical landmark, Charminar, in the southern city of Hyderabad, is shoppers’ paradise. Laad refers to lacquer which is used to make bangles. The entire market is lined with several shops selling colourful bangles, semi-precious stones, pearls and jewellery, apart from sarees, hand-woven silk, embroidered fabric and so on. In the vicinity is a large perfume market too where you can get customised perfumes made.

Flea Markets – Goa

We know Goa as the land of gorgeous sun-kissed beaches and amazing cuisine. Its flea markets are equally legendary. The Arpora Saturday Night market is one such place. It opens at 6pm and closes late at night. One can buy spices, tea, carpets, artefacts, handicrafts, clothes and everything else here and the place has a great buzz with a lot of tourists and plenty of cafes and bars. Another option is the Anjuna Wednesday flea market or the Mapusa Friday Market where you can pick up great beachwear and home furnishings for ridiculously cheap prices.

Colaba Market - Mumbai

This market, like the city of Mumbai, is always teeming with life. It’s one of those typical markets where you get anything and everything under the sun – clothes, bags, shoes, home furnishings, random groceries, food, artefacts, the whole package. And some great cafes and bakeries where you can stop by for a quick snack or a drink. If you are looking at more artsy stuff – like vintage gramophones and the like – pop over to Chor Bazaar.

Invite your friends for a cup of coffee, gather around your Satara Coffee Table and plot your next shopping expedition.