The best places to shop in Darjeeling for all shopaholics

Darjeeling is an ideal summer vacation destination. There is no doubt that its scenic beauty is breathtaking, but shopping lovers should definitely visit this city for many reasons.

Darjeeling is famous for its tea plantations. The authentic taste and aroma of the tea will surely win your heart. In addition to storing bags of tea leaves, you can also buy local trinkets such as handicrafts, wool scarves and caps, jewelry and other items at the city markets.Visiting Chowk Bazaar or The Mall Road will make you a true connoisseur of shopping.

Darjeeling Market Districts

1. Nehru Road.

This market, located on Hill Cart Road, has small stores set up by locals.

Nehru Road is a must-see shopping destination that offers tourists street shopping. The market is constantly evolving. In recent years, several brand-name stores have also opened their outlets.

The state government recently added a craft store. For those who love arts and crafts, be sure to pick up some stunning paintings for your home.

Artwork by skilled Bengali artisans and craftsmen can also be seen at the Art Gallery in the area. It is advisable to have cash on hand, as most stores here do not accept cards.

What you can buy: varieties of Darjeeling tea, exclusively designed woolen clothing, small souvenirs, exotic handicrafts, leather bags, books, exquisite paintings, Khukri or Gorkha knives, Buddha statues and pashmina shawls.

Opening hours: 8:00 - 19:00.

2. batasia Loop Market

This market got its name as a result of its location. The street mall is located on the loop of Gum and Darjeeling. If you are an avid shopper who knows the tricks of shopping, this is the right place for you.

Here you can buy a bunch of bags at a reasonable cost. A line of toy trains is also offered to customers.

What you can buy: home decor items, woolen clothing, accessories for women.

Opening hours: 9:00-18:00.

3. Ghum Monastery Market

The ideal time to visit the Ghum Monastery and the nearby market is early morning and evening, because the sunrise and sunset at this time are mesmerizing. The colorful banners with flags decorating the streets create a pleasant atmosphere.

Walking in the vicinity of the Buddhist monks will have a calming effect on you while you shop for Tibetan souvenirs.

What you can buy here: Tibetan artifacts, including singing bowls, prayer wheels, flags, Thangkas (a form of Tibetan wall paintings), bags for women.

Opening hours: 9:00-19:00.

4. Teesta Bazaar

Close to Kalimpong district and the industrial town of Melly, Thiesta Bazaar is located along the banks of the river of the same name. Surrounded by immense natural beauty, tourists traveling to Darjeeling on the Siliguri Gangtok highway stop at this market.

Local products are sold in a variety of price ranges. You can get reasonably priced items as well as expensive ones that take a lot of effort and time to make. Indulge in shopping by enjoying one of the best shopping destinations in Darjeeling.

What you can buy: hunting equipment, shoes, wall paintings called Thangkas, copperware, crockery, silverware, and lanterns.

Opening hours: 8:00-18:00.

5. Pashupati Nagar Market

Next to the serene town of Mirik, Pashupati Nagar Market is surrounded by quiet green hills. The street market offers cheap prices on imported goods from Thailand.

In close proximity to the Nepalese border, Pashupati Nagar Market will present several attractive natural attractions that will double the pleasure of shopping.

Here you can also buy electronic goods at very affordable prices, there is a wide range of cosmetics for women.

What you can buy: small souvenirs, woolen jackets, shawls and sweaters, Gorkha knives, books and Darjeeling tea.

Opening hours: 9:00-18:00.

6. Mall Road

If you visit Darjeeling and don't go to The Mall Road, you've probably missed the best place for shopping. You can buy anything you want here. Rest assured that you will have plenty of time to visit this market. You will lose track of time with the endless tempting offers at The Mall Road.

If you're into hunting, Mall Road will offer some interesting items for your next adventure.

What you can buy: fashionable jewelry, woolen shawls, jackets, scarves and sweaters, Tibetan masks and other handmade souvenirs.

Opening hours: 8:00-19:00.

7. Chowk Bazar

Chowk Bazar, an entertainment center for locals, also attracts tourists in large numbers. Fresh and green vegetables are on offer. Quirky tea stalls serving freshly brewed tea, which is a must-try here. The market is always crowded with people.

The Chowk Bazar alleys sell rugs, hand-woven goods, fur hats, copper objects, brilliantly carved caskets, masks and silverware.

What you can buy: exotic carpets, hand-woven products, fur hats, copper crafts.

Opening hours: 9:00-21:00.

8. Tibetan Refugee Assistance Center

It was founded in 1959 to help Tibetan refugees in the area. Tibetan artisans have created their own line of products in the marketplace. Visiting the Tibetan Refugee Relief Center, tourists can also see artisans demonstrating their artistic skills.

The variety of souvenirs you can choose from here is huge. If you are looking for something different to bring home as a keepsake from a trip, this place is a must visit.

What you can buy: Tibetan carpets, woolen clothing, luxurious wooden décor, stylish shoes, carved woodwork, paintings.

Working time: 8:00-17:00.

9. Rink Mall

Being a peaceful hill station, Darjeeling has had no shopping malls until recently. The Rink Mall, located at the starting point of The Mall Road, is a versatile destination for tourists who prefer malls.

Big Bazar and Reliance Trends stores offer designer clothes, and a massage parlor will provide soothing relief if you're tired from walking.

The Natmulla Tea Room is a special attraction for any tea lover. You can choose some of the best tea varieties, attractive teapots and other souvenirs from the store. The vendors also organize tastings, which are guaranteed to be a lot of fun.

Opening hours: 10:00-17:00.

The vibrant markets of Darjeeling will entice you with their enchanting atmosphere and a totally unique shopping experience.

Plan your trip so that you can not only do your shopping, but also visit the scenic attractions in a city with a great history.

Travel between October and March. This is when the weather is good, when you can wander the streets and do your shopping.