Forts,
havelis, temples and sand dunes, is that all? Of course not. Shopping
markets also teem with a medieval aura that can only be termed stupendous.
The old world charm still reverberates along the artisan packed lanes and
avenues where shopping can be an experience that truly beggars description.
Leaving Jaisalmer without browsing through its marketplaces is almost
blasphemous. The golden town is quite popular for mirror work, stone
carvings, antiques, carpets, oil lamps, shawls, silver jewellery, woollen
pattu and tapestry among others. There are myriad items to keep you busy
choosing your items of souvenirs. Exquisite wooden boxes, trinkets and
curios make for excellent buys for one and all.
Puppets and jootis (Traditional shoes) are also popular with tourists and
travellers. What can be more nostalgic than these puppets that have been
handed down generation after generation. These are the very puppets that can
create a whole aura of dance and music, something that the puppeteers are
known for. Camel leather items and woven jackets are also in demand among
tourists both from India and outside.
Handicrafts and textiles of Barmer,
located close to Jaisalmer, are something never to be missed. Barmer plays a
vital role by contributing hugely to the cultural fabric of the state of
Rajasthan. While on your shopping spree in Barmer, you would love to buy
block printed textile with folk motifs. So, as you can see options are
ample, it's only that you need to take out your time for an experience you
will never want to forget.
Shopping Arcades in Jaisalmer
Manak Chowk
Manak Chowk, the main marketplace in Jaisalmer, lies abutting the Jaisalmer
Fort. The market has on sale a number of wonderful handicrafts. But don't
forget to haggle, for it is something the market is known for.
Sadar Bazar
Sadar Bazar is a principal marketplace in Jaisalmer selling mirror work,
embroidered articles and other wonderful crafted items. So, if you are on
the look out for a variety of gifts, head straight to the Sadar Bazar.
Sonaron Ka Bas
The name Sonaron Ka Bas, meaning the abode of goldsmiths, itself suggests
what you are supposed to buy here. Superbly crafted jewellery items can be
found here. Shops and stalls line the pathway to a good distance.
Zila Khadi Gramodan Parishad
For those who are looking for unique ethnic items of textile, Zila Khadi
Gramodan Parishad is the destination to be. Here, one can buy items like
carpets, shawls, garments, woollen bandhani and other silk, wool and cotton
textiles.
Pansari Bazar and Gandhi Darshan are other popular shopping points in the
town of Jaisalmer. Also, there are a number of Government run emporiums
selling interesting antiques and curios.
