Shopping
- Aj
- Feb 25
- 8 min read
Colaba Causeway
Colaba Causeway, earlier called Shahid Bhagat Singh Road, is a must visit for people exploring South Mumbai.
Linking to Colaba Island and the main city, this bustling street is a shopping sanctuary and a famous cultural hub. It is often called Colaba Market. Being an interesting blend of both street shopping and high-end exquisite boutiques, makes it suitable for bargainers as well as the store owners. Cafe's and other eateries are in the same lane of the market like Leopold Cafe & Mondegar Cafe, you can unwind after long hours of shopping through the market and treat yourself with a drink and take in the congenial vibes, everything contributing to the lively atmosphere.
Colaba is just beyond being a market or a place, it holds a special spot in people's lives who've spent most of their lives hanging around the streets of the market with their friends, mainly, college friends.
What to Shop?
At Colaba Causeway, the variety of items will leave you spoiled for choice. You can find beautiful boho dresses, y2k aesthetics right out there, traditional Indian kurtis and dresses, leather accessories, colorful jewelry, crystals, and beautifully crafted handicrafts that reflect India’s artistic heritage. This market is also ideal for picking up unique souvenirs like handmade trinkets, scarves, bags, and traditional Indian decor. If you're someone who's into thrifting clothes, Colaba has it all. For those with a taste for vintage treasures, there are plenty of stalls offering charming antiques and art pieces. Don’t forget—bargaining is part of the experience here, so feel free to haggle for the best price.
What to Avoid?
Since knock-offs are quite prominent in the area, avoid buying any electronics or branded goods unless you're sure about what you're buying & it's authentic. Also, avoid pushy sellers which you might find uncomfortable.
Watch out for dishonest goods but at the same, do not quarrel with the sellers. Be careful with your belongings since the market gets crowded overtime.
What’s Nearby?
Gateway of India, offers a mesmerizing view of the Sea and fortunately it's a stroll away from Colaba.
Colaba Causeway is perfectly situated near some of Mumbai’s most famous landmarks. The famous Taj Mahal Palace is also not far away, a magnificent spot to unwind with a few drinks or a meal of your liking.
Eateries Nearby?
Colaba Causeway is surrounded by one of the famous cafes and restaurants. After a long day of shopping or if you'd just like to hangout with your friend or your family, Colaba Causeway is the place for you. Some of the famous eateries in Colaba are Cafe Mondegar and Leopold & Co. For a street food experience, head to Bademiya, a popular late-night food stall that serves mouth-watering kebabs, rolls, and grilled meats.
How to Get There?
Colaba Causeway is easily accessible through Mumbai’s public transport network. The closest local train stations are Churchgate and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST). From either station, you can take a quick taxi ride or enjoy a leisurely walk to reach the market.
Crawford Market
Originally known as Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Mandai, is one of the most famous markets in South Bombay. The building of the market was named after Arthur Crawford, the first Municipal Commissioner of the city. Located in the heart of South Mumbai, near Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, this market has been a bustling hub of commerce since the late 19th century. Known for its vibrant energy and colonial architecture, Crawford Market offers a unique blend of wholesale fruits, vegetables, spices, and household goods, alongside pet shops and stalls selling imported products. Its lively atmosphere, historical significance, and diverse array of goods make it a must-visit spot for tourists seeking an authentic Mumbai shopping experience.
What to Shop?
At Crawford Market, you can find an incredible variety of items, including floral decor accents, vases, funky neon sign lights, chandeliers, bohemian vintage trunk boxes, elegant crystal crockery, stationery supplies, as well as a variety of drugstore products. You can also find gorgeous lehengas, cotton silk fabrics, Indian wear like sarees and kurtis. You may find exotic fruits and veggies like avocados and passion fruits.
What to Avoid?
Crawford is known for its wholesale prices but as a tourist, they might quote you higher rates. Make sure you bargain accordingly in a way which is fair to both. The market is always crowded with tourists and locals which makes it a hotspot for pickpockets. Keep your belongings safe and carry a shopping bag.
What's Nearby?
Just a short walk away, you can explore the stunning architecture of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Kala Ghoda Arts Precinct is also nearby, offering galleries and art spaces to explore.
Eateries Nearby?
If you're tired of the crowded lanes of Crawford and want to sit down somewhere? Visit Gulshan-E-Iran for authentic Mughlai delicacies. Also, do not forget to have royal falooda and masala dosa at the very famous Badshah. At around every corner, you might come across street vendors trying to sell apple shake, do not miss out on it, it may not look appetizing but it's one of the delicious beverages to have.
How to Get There?
The market is situated opposite to the Mumbai Police headquarters, north of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus railway station and west of the J.J. flyover at a busy interaction.
Get off at CSMT station and take a taxi to Crawford Market. If you're coming from Churchgate, board off at Marine Lines station and take a cab or walk for 15 minutes.
Another option, If you're confident enough to take a bus ride, get on Bus Number 51.
Also, This market is mostly closed on Tuesdays. On other days, it's open from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm.
Hill Road
Being one of the posh areas in Mumbai, Bandra is a major attraction as it has Hill Road Shopping Market making Bandra popular. It has everything, be it clothes, food, or even a bit of an adventure. The streets are quite vibrant and lively in the city. Hill Road is the Sarojini Nagar of Mumbai. Hill Road stretches from the Bandra Railway Station road and S.V. Road to the Mehboob Studios,leading to the Bandstand Promenade, the Bandra Fort and the Mount Mary Church.
What to Shop?
Being a shopping paradise, Hill Road has a plethora of options for you but according to your preferences. You can find almost everything ranging from oxidized jewelry, trendy jewelry, home decor, gadgets, books, stationery, antiques, and handicrafts. The market is famous for being affordable and copies of goods that are often rejected. Golbus is a multi-storey shopping mall, it is popular amongst the trendy young crowd, who tend to flock for the mall’s cinema hall, gaming zone, and shopping.
What to Avoid?
If you find yourself shopping in Hill Road, make sure to carry cash. Do not get overwhelmed by the crowd as it's of no harm although, be careful of your belongings as being a tourist, pickpockets may try to sell you fake products. If you buy any electronics, check them out and get a bill if they do provide it.
What's Nearby?
Apart from being a place for shopaholics and foodies, Bandra is also famous for exploring the cultural heritage and attractions nearby. Bandra is home to many Bollywood celebrities and also to locals & slums. You may come across almost everything from graffiti art to music concerts, mansions, churches, parks, and lastly, forts. Bandstand being the highlight of Bandra offers a mesmerizing view of the Arabian Sea. After shopping all your souvenirs, hangout at Bandstand, walk or relax, however you like. Mount Mary Church is another highlight, it is visited by millions of devotees every year,it has beautiful architecture and a soothing atmosphere.
Eateries Nearby?
If you're craving for some good street food or want to sit at a local cafe after shopping in Bandra? Candies being a famous and cozy cafe offers salads, pizzas, beverages, pastries, and much more. Also, if you'd like to try some street food, go to Elco Pani Puri Centre where you can find a lot of people having pani puri, bhel puri, and dahi puri but they're famous for their iconic pani puri.
How to Get There?
Hill Road is easily accessible by Mumbai’s public transport. You can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to Bandra Station. From the station, it’s a short cab ride or a pleasant walk to Hill Road.
Chor Bazaar
Being one of the largest flea markets in India, Chor Bazaar is located at Mutton Street, near Bhendi Bazaar in Grant Road, South Mumbai. The word “chor” translates to ‘thief’. Basically, if you lose anything in Mumbai you can buy it back from the Chor Bazaar or that's what the legends say. Chor Bazaar is one of the tourist attractions of Mumbai. Today, it is said that Chor Bazaar sells second hand goods rather than stolen goods, you're in safe hands.
What to Shop?
The market is famous for antique and vintage items like Victorian furniture, replacement parts for automobiles, accessories, home decor, wood and metal furniture, quirky retro decor, old clocks, classic vinyl records, and typewriters. There's a Mini Market Store which offers old Bollywood posters for sale.
What to Avoid?
If you buy electronics from Chor Bazaar, note that these products won't last for years as they are copies or rejected goods sold at reasonable prices. Also, there's no parking space in the market. You might have to park your vehicles at some distance away or travel via public transport. Avoid keeping your wallets and goods in the back pocket as they often get stolen.
What's Nearby?
Chor Bazaar is located close to several cultural and historical attractions. Just a short distance away, you can visit the Haji Ali Dargah, a beautiful mosque set on a small island, offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere. The Mahim Nature Park and Khotachiwadi, a heritage village, are also nearby, providing a glimpse into Mumbai's rich history and natural beauty.
Eateries Nearby?
Treat yourself to some local cuisine at nearby eateries. Bademiya, a legendary late-night food stall, is famous for its delicious kebabs and rolls, making it a must-try. For a more casual dining experience, head to Aaram Vada Pav, known for its tasty vada pav—a classic Mumbai street food. If you’re looking for something sweet, stop by K. Rustom & Co., renowned for its delectable ice cream sandwiches that will satisfy your cravings.
How to Get There?
The nearest railway station is the Mumbai Central railway station at 2.8 kms away from the market. Take a bus ride or a rickshaw to the market.
Note, Chor Bazaar is open from 11:00 am to 7:30 pm from Monday to Sunday, with a holiday on Fridays.
Palladium Mall
Palladium Mall, located in Lower Parel, Mumbai, is a luxury shopping destination that offers a world-class retail experience. As one of the city’s most upscale malls, it attracts both locals and tourists looking for high-end fashion, fine dining, and premium lifestyle products.
What to Shop?
Palladium Mall is home to a variety of international and Indian luxury brands. You’ll find high-end fashion labels such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Burberry, along with premium stores like Zara, H&M, and Michael Kors. The mall is a one-stop destination for fashion, jewelry, accessories, and cosmetics, making it perfect for tourists seeking a sophisticated shopping experience. For those interested in home décor and lifestyle products, stores like Good Earth and Westside offer a fine collection of elegant furnishings and unique designs.
What to Avoid?
While Palladium Mall is known for its luxury offerings, it might not be the best place if you’re looking for budget-friendly options, as most stores cater to a higher-end clientele. However, window shopping and exploring the mall’s lavish interiors can be enjoyable even if you’re not planning to splurge. Avoid shopping here if you're on a tight budget, but do indulge in the experience if you're interested in premium brands.
What’s Nearby?
Palladium Mall is part of the High Street Phoenix complex, which includes a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. You can explore the nearby SkyZone, another wing of the mall with additional retail stores, or visit the PVR Cinemas for a movie break. The Worli Sea Face and the famous Haji Ali Dargah are also just a short drive away, offering scenic views and cultural exploration.
Eateries Nearby?
Palladium Mall offers a variety of dining options, ranging from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. Yauatcha, a Michelin-starred restaurant, is famous for its delectable dim sum, while Pa Pa Ya offers a modern twist on Asian cuisine. If you’re in the mood for something more casual, Starbucks or Theobroma are great for a quick coffee or a sweet treat.
How to Get There?
Palladium Mall is well-connected to the rest of Mumbai. You can take a taxi or use the Mumbai Local Train, getting off at Lower Parel Station. From there, it’s just a short walk to the mall. Alternatively, you can take a cab from central locations like Churchgate or Bandra, which are just a 20-30 minute drive away.