Here’s a detailed guide to the top 10 shopping destinations in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, where you can find quality products at discounted prices. While India doesn’t have a nationwide tax-free shopping policy for tourists, many of these places offer competitive pricing and occasional promotions.
1. Prozone Mall Aurangabad
- Location: API Compound, MIDC Industrial Area, Chikalthana
- Features: Spacious mall with over 150 retail stores, including international and domestic brands.
- Discounts: Offers seasonal sales and promotions. For example, the Trends Shopping Festival offered apparel worth ₹3,499 for purchases of ₹3,499, plus a 5% instant discount on SBI credit cards.
- Facilities: Food court, INOX cinema, and ample parking.
- Ideal For: Fashion, electronics, and lifestyle products.
2. Gul Mandi Market
- Location: Near Shahganj Masjid, Old City
- Features: Bustling street market offering a variety of items.
- Products: Paithani silk sarees, Himroo shawls, Bidriware, and local handicrafts.
- Bargaining: Common practice; expect to negotiate prices.
- Ideal For: Traditional textiles and souvenirs.
3. Connaught Shopping Market
- Location: CIDCO, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
- Features: Known for local handicrafts and textiles.
- Products: Kam Khab weaves with gold and silver threads, Himroo shawls, and handwoven purses.
- Ideal For: Authentic local crafts and textiles.
4. Himroo Weaving Centers
- Location: Zaffer Gate, Aurangabad
- Features: Traditional weaving centers showcasing the Himroo fabric.
- Products: Himroo shawls, Mashru fabrics, and handloom products.
- Experience: Observe skilled artisans at work and purchase directly from the source.
5. Sabzi Mandi Market
- Location: Shahgunj, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
- Features: Oldest general market in the city.
- Products: Fresh vegetables, fruits, spices, and household items.
- Pricing: Known for competitive pricing; ideal for bulk purchases.
6. Saral Bazaar at Prozone Mall
- Location: Prozone Mall, Chikalthana
- Features: Community street market offering small shops for local businesses.
- Products: A variety of goods from local vendors.
- Ideal For: Supporting local artisans and finding unique items.
7. Shopping Market (Connaught Market)
- Location: CIDCO, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
- Features: Offers a wide range of textiles and handicrafts.
- Products: Himroo shawls, Kam Khab weaves, and handwoven purses.
- Ideal For: Traditional textiles and local crafts.
8. City Chowk
- Location: Near Bibi Ka Maqbara
- Features: Bustling market area.
- Products: Handicrafts, traditional jewelry, and Bidriware.
- Ideal For: Authentic local crafts and souvenirs.
9. Nirala Bazaar
- Location: Near Cidco, Aurangabad
- Features: Known for a diverse collection of footwear, bags, and accessories.
- Products: Footwear, bags, accessories, and home decor items.
- Ideal For: Fashion accessories and home decor.
10. Osmanpura Market
- Location: Osmanpura, Aurangabad
- Features: A paradise for book lovers and students.
- Products: Books, stationery items, and educational materials.
- Ideal For: Educational resources and stationery.
Shopping Tips for Tourists
- Bargaining: Common in local markets; don’t hesitate to negotiate prices.
- Payment Methods: Many vendors accept UPI payments; carrying cash is also advisable.
- Authenticity: For authentic Paithani sarees and Himroo shawls, visit dedicated weaving centers.
- Timing: Markets are busiest in the evenings; visiting during early hours may offer a more relaxed shopping experience.
Feel free to ask if you need more information on any of these shopping destinations or assistance with planning your shopping itinerary in Aurangabad!