In our 5 Shops series, we point you to our favorite independent shops across some of the world’s best cities. From food markets and unique design stores to vintage shops, we present a diverse mix of local retailers where you can discover one-of-a-kind pieces.
The roads of the Pink City, known as Jaipur due to its rose- and rust-colored buildings, are teeming with hundreds of shops. This city is synonymous with vibrant bazaars that serve as landmarks. Here, niche stores abound, making it easy to find unique items like traditional leather jutti, colorful handmade glass bangles, and exquisite Rajasthani miniature paintings.
While I may not consider myself a dedicated shopper, I am drawn to the blend of art, history, and culture that Jaipur offers. Throughout my numerous visits to the city, I find myself wishing for a larger bag to bring home charming items such as large terracotta salad bowls or captivating brass statuettes. Jaipur’s iconic blue pottery, historic textiles, and specialty sweet shops create an endless array of must-visit shopping spots. Thus, I have compiled a list of five essential shops in Jaipur, encompassing both the Old City and beyond.
Best for Souvenirs: Ladu
Rajasthan significantly contributes to India’s cultural tourism, resulting in an abundance of souvenir shops in Jaipur. For a refreshing alternative to the typical carved elephant souvenirs, explore Tapri: The Tea House located in the Civil Lines area.
Tapri, a popular local café named after the tarped chai stalls of Indian street corners, features an uncluttered retail space named Ladu. The warmly lit shelves boast a thoughtfully selected array of handmade, responsibly sourced local products, including tea blends, spices, contemporary art, and homeware. These souvenirs cater to diverse tastes, featuring both muted tones and vibrant colors.
Be sure to look for their home linens and beautiful stoneware, like a pair of kulhad (chai tumblers) priced around ₹600, as well as stylish brass items.
Best for Local Design: Rāsa
Jaipur has earned its reputation for textiles, notably bandhani (tie-dye), which originated in Rajasthan. Rāsa is a boutique that showcases Rajasthan’s textile heritage in contemporary clothing and bedding.
Situated in an unexpected bungalow in Ashok Nagar, this boutique offers chic Jaipuri quilts with an upscale twist in terms of color palettes and fabric quality. Founded by designers Mandulika and Manish Tibrewal, the boutique features stylish contemporary Indian clothing. Although prices may be a bit steep (a block-printed women’s top can range from ₹5000 to ₹10,000), the items are hand-block-printed on luxurious silk and linen.
For a more affordable yet colorful option, consider visiting Shivani Fabric in Johri Bazaar, which offers a variety of classic Jaipuri garments.
Best for Vintage/Thrift: Thrift. Save. Rave.
Thrift.Save.Rave excels in offering a wide variety of clothing options. Founders Vinay Choudhary and Karishma Navlani curate a mix of preowned vintage pieces and new factory surplus garments, ensuring a colorful range of fashion amidst recent minimalist trends.
You’ll discover everything from elegant evening gowns to eclectic knitwear, all while catering to sizes XS through XXXL. This shop truly embodies the vibrant spirit of shopping in Jaipur.
Best for Food: Laxmi Misthan Bhandar
In a land overflowing with open-air food markets, Laxmi Misthan Bhandar (LMB) stands out as a culinary institution founded in 1727. While its adjoining restaurant may be overrated for tourists, the shop itself is a treasure trove of traditional Indian sweets, most famously known for its extraordinary ghevar—a sweet honeycomb disk.
Vacuum-packed versions of this treat are available for ~₹1,000, making them perfect for bringing home. Don’t miss out on their variety of cakes, pastries, and savory treats like namkeens.
