Varanasi is full of surprises, and the best way to feel its vibe is by exploring its markets. From soft, shiny Banarasi silk sarees to colourful wooden toys and small handmade souvenirs, there’s something for everyone. This guide will show you the best markets, help you spot authentic items, and give tips so you can shop like a local without getting lost or overpaying. If you love exploring new places and picking up special keepsakes, this blog will make your Varanasi shopping easy and fun.

First Steps Into Varanasi’s Shopping Streets

If you ask someone what to do in Varanasi after visiting the ghats and temples, most locals will smile and say, “Go shopping!”

Because in Varanasi, shopping is not just about buying things — it’s an experience.

The narrow lanes filled with bright fabrics, the sweet smell of jalebis, and the friendly chaos of small shops all make it unforgettable.

From world-famous Banarasi silk sarees to handmade brass idols, wooden toys, and tiny souvenirs, there’s something for everyone.

If you want help planning a smooth shopping trip, See City Destination (+91 6392124866) can guide you through the best markets.

1. Banarasi Silk Sarees – The Pride of Varanasi

You simply cannot leave Varanasi without seeing or buying a Banarasi silk saree. These sarees are famous all over India (and abroad) for their rich fabric and shiny zari work.

What Makes Banarasi Sarees So Special

• Each saree takes weeks to make by hand on a loom.

• The designs are inspired by Mughal art, featuring flowers, leaves, and intricate gold thread work.

• Real zari (silver or gold thread) is used in premium sarees.

• They are known for their royal look — perfect for weddings and festivals.

You’ll notice that when you touch a Banarasi saree, it feels soft but slightly heavy — that’s the sign of good quality silk.

Types of Banarasi Sarees

1. Katan Silk Sarees: Pure silk, very elegant, often worn by brides.

2. Organza Sarees: Light and transparent with shiny borders.

3. Georgette Sarees: Modern, easy to drape, and good for parties.

4. Shattir Sarees: Affordable, beautiful options for daily or casual wear.

Where to Buy Banarasi Sarees

• Thateri Bazaar: A go-to place for traditional silk weavers.

• Chowk & Vishwanath Gali: Best for both luxury and budget sarees.

• Madanpura: Ideal for visiting local weavers directly.

• Peelikothi: Perfect if you want to buy in bulk or custom-made sarees.
  
  

Tip: To check if it’s real silk, look at the back of the saree — if the threads are slightly uneven, it’s likely handmade.

2. Best Shopping Markets in Varanasi

Varanasi’s markets are like a maze — full of colours, smells, and stories. Each one has something unique to offer.

a. Godowlia Market

If you love busy local bazaars, start here.

You’ll find everything — sarees, bangles, shoes, brass items, and street food.

Walk slowly, bargain politely, and enjoy the crowd.

- Best for: Sarees, trinkets, idols, and household goods.
- When to Visit: Early morning or late evening (less traffic, cooler weather).

b. Vishwanath Gali

Right next to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, this market is always full of pilgrims.

Here you’ll find rudraksha malas, brass diyas, small idols, and spiritual souvenirs.

It’s also a great place to taste sweets and buy Banarasi paan.

- Best for: Religious items, sweets, and local snacks.

c. Thatheri Bazaar

This one’s for metal lovers!

You’ll see artisans hammering and polishing brass and copper items.

- Best for: Brass lamps, pooja thalis, utensils, and home décor.

d. Chowk Market

If you want to explore the old charm of Varanasi, Chowk is a must.

It’s known for sarees, perfumes, carpets, and local handicrafts.

Don’t forget to stop by the old perfume shops that sell natural “ittar” (fragrance oils).

e. Lahurabir Market

This is more modern and spacious — great for daily wear clothes and gifts. If you want to shop peacefully without much crowd, try Lahurabir.

3. Traditional Handicrafts of Varanasi

Varanasi is full of talented artisans who create beautiful things using their hands and simple tools.

Handicrafts You Should Check Out

1. Wooden Toys: Cute, colourful, and made in nearby Ramnagar.

2. Brassware: Pooja thalis, diyas, and decorative pieces — perfect souvenirs.

3. Glass Beads: The city is a major bead-making hub.

4. Stone Carvings: Mini idols and sculptures made from local stone.

5. Handmade Carpets: Visit Bhadohi (about 45 km away) for world-class carpets.

These are not just showpieces — they represent the heritage of Banaras.

4. Souvenirs You’ll Love Taking Home

You don’t have to spend a lot to carry a piece of Varanasi with you. Small souvenirs make great memories and gifts.

Here are some ideas:

• Small Banarasi stoles or dupattas

• Brass diyas or mini idols

• Rudraksha beads and spiritual items

• Locally made perfumes (ittar)

• Wooden toys or hand-painted boxes

• Ganga Jal bottles from the ghats

Pro Tip: Buy small souvenirs in bulk — they make great gifts for friends back home.

5. Smart Tips for Shopping in Varanasi (From a Local’s Heart)

1. Bargain gently. Most shopkeepers expect it. Start at about 50–60% of the quoted price.

2. Avoid touts or middlemen. Go directly to the shops or handloom centres.

3. Check the material. For silk, ask if they have a Silk Mark Certificate.

4. Carry cash. Small shops may not have card or UPI options.

5. Respect the culture. In markets near temples, dress modestly and avoid blocking temple paths.

6. Ask locals for help. People in Varanasi are friendly and love guiding tourists.

6. One-Day Shopping Route (Easy for Travellers)

If you have just one day for shopping, follow this route for the best experience:

1. Morning: Start at Godowlia Market — explore sarees, handicrafts, and small idols.

2. Midday: Walk to Vishwanath Gali — buy souvenirs and taste famous sweets.

3. Afternoon: Visit Thatheri Bazaar — check brass and copper items.

4. Evening: End your day at Lahurabir Market — find gifts and eat street food.

By the end of the day, you’ll have bags full of treasures and memories.

This route can be made stress-free with help from See City Destination (+91 6392124866).

7. People Also Ask (Helpful Q&A)

Q1. What is famous in Varanasi for shopping?

Varanasi is famous for Banarasi silk sarees, brassware, wooden toys, and spiritual souvenirs like rudraksha malas and diyas.

Q2. Which market is best for Banarasi sarees?

Thatheri Bazaar, Chowk, and Madanpura are the best for authentic Banarasi sarees. Ask for handloom pieces if you want real silk.

Q3. What should I buy from Varanasi as a souvenir?

You can buy small idols, brass lamps, wooden toys, Banarasi dupattas, and local perfumes as souvenirs.

Q4. When is the best time to shop in Varanasi?

Morning and evening are best. Avoid the hot afternoon hours, especially in summer.

8. Why Shopping in Varanasi Feels Special

Shopping in Varanasi is not like shopping in a mall — it’s a cultural journey.

Every shop has a story, every artisan has a skill passed down from generations, and every lane feels alive with history.

You might walk into a small shop to buy a saree and end up chatting for an hour about weaving, food, and life — that’s the beauty of Banaras.

Key Takeaways

• Banarasi silk sarees are a must-buy item from Varanasi.

• Visit Godowlia, Thatheri Bazaar, and Chowk for authentic local shopping.

• Handicrafts, brassware, and perfumes make meaningful souvenirs.

• Always bargain politely and check product authenticity.

• Shopping here is not just about items — it’s about people, culture, and memories.

• Get help from See City Destination for Varanasi tour, travel packages, and shopping guidance.

Conclusion

When you shop in Varanasi, you take home more than just sarees or souvenirs — you carry a piece of its soul.

The sounds of the markets, the smiles of the artisans, and the glow of brass diyas will stay with you long after you’ve left the city.

So next time you visit Banaras, take your time, enjoy the lanes, and let the city show you what real Indian shopping feels like — warm, honest, and full of heart.

Enjoy Shopping and Exploring Varanasi Without Worries

Let See City Destination handle your Varanasi tours, transport, and local experiences. From shopping at Godowlia, Thatheri Bazaar, and Chowk to exploring the city’s culture, they make it easy to enjoy everything safely and comfortably.

Plan your Varanasi trip:

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