This was my first visit to Kolkata which was all work trip, but the city’s legendary spirit, the “City of Joy”, was too tempting to resist ! As soon as I landed, a smile spread across my face, and more than the official meeting I was eager to experience the city, food and culture.
As a tourist, Park Street, is a popular choice for sightseeing stays, I was fortunate to experience Kolkata through a homestay with my friend in Tollygunge.
Kolkata, the City of Joy – and within this joyful city lies Gariahat, a shopper’s paradise that exudes energy of street shopping. Recently, here, one forgets the silence of air-conditioned malls! It is a sensory overload in the most delightful way –
- A symphony of honking peeli (yellow) taxi traffic,
- Lively chatter, and
- The rhythmic call out of shopkeepers makes you want to explore every shop in here!
A Feast for the Fashion Senses
Surprisingly, I began exploring the market from the homeware lane. A kaleidoscope of tablecloths, cushion covers, sofa covers and bedspreads. Gariahat overflowed with traditional Bengali embroidery and craft, I couldn’t resist a buying a stunning tablecloth featuring delicate appliqué work, where colourful fabric patches are stitched together.
The other side displayed a plethora of ready-made garments for women and men and kids, catering to all styles and sensibilities. As I delved deeper into the by lanes, I stumbled upon quirky jewellery stalls overflowing with handcrafted wonders – chunky stone necklaces, silver earrings, and a dazzling array of bangles in every imaginable colour.
Image: A dazzling array of handcrafted jewellery
At Gariahat , with every turn, I discovered new treasures, new stories woven into the fabric of the market. The number of options is mind-boggling – from the ubiquitous jute bags to the handcrafted ones and simple leather footwear to the designer uptown collections, Gariahat caters to every whim and need. Not to forget VALUE FOR MONEY !
A Cotton Paradise – Kolkata’s Exquisite Sarees
Saving the best for last, I arrived at the heart of Gariahat – the quintessential saree lane! Kolkata is famous for its exquisite cotton weaves, and Gariahat is a treasure trove of these beauties. From the delicate floral motifs of the Tant sarees to the geometric patterns of the Dhakai sarees, I spent a good two hours running my fingers across the fabric, especially the intricate Kantha embroidery, the sheer variety in front was overwhelming! Each saree was a masterpiece of craftsmanship. I scored a stunning Kantha stitch saree for just 500 rupees (an unbelievable bargain!).
The joy of bargaining in Gariahat is an experience in itself ! A melody of negotiation filled the air, punctuated by nods, hand gestures, and the sweet flow of Bengali. Thankfully, my friend and her mom were bargaining experts, getting me amazing deals on the sarees I found.
My absolute favorite? A stunning Khadi silk saree, a perfect blend of cotton and silk, with breathtaking embroidery – all at an unbelievable price! Pure speechless joy. It was a testament to the value you can find in Garia Haat , where even a modest budget can unlock a world of sartorial spend.
Image: Display of Kolkata’s renowned cotton weaves – Saree Haven
A Few Hours Well Spent or Not Spent Enough?
Four hours at Gariahat simply wasn’t enough to explore everything that it has to offer. But the real treasures was the friendly interactions of shopkeepers with us and their stories behind their wares, the bargaining that becomes a cultural exchange, and the joy of discovering something unique at every shop!
Gariahat is an experience – a shopping adventure you won’t forget where every rupee spent feels like an investment! Along with the joy of haggling for a bargain!
A few tips for your Garia Haat visit:
- Dress for comfort – Garia Haat involves lots of walking!
- Carry cash, as not all vendors accept cards.
- Be prepared to bargain – it’s all part of the experience!
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions to the shopkeepers regarding their product and test your knowledge!
- Keep an open mind and enjoy the overall environment!
So, on your next trip to Kolkata, ditch the malls and head straight to Garia Haat. You might just discover your own shopping paradise!
A Glimpse into My Recent Trip
Thanks to my friend for also sparing time for some street side culinary experience! Not to miss the “jhalmuri” (similar to bhelpuri) and “puchka” (paani puri)
Image: Street Food delight – Jhal Muri at Gariahat
Image: Street Food delight – Puchka at Gariahat
Image: Howrah Bridge
Image: Old city charm – The Tram !
Image: A small close -up of my saree stash!
Image: Flower Market
Image: View of the famous Flurys from Park Street