Against the very preconceived notion of associating Agra with primarily the Mughal architecture, we bring to you a plethora of other wonders that the city withholds. These are undeniably those vibrant and essentially beaming markets of Agra. With its sheer local vibes, leather stores, marble shops, dress layouts, lip-smacking food joints, aromatic spice outlets, etc. the city undeniably is a replica of the heterogeneity and diversity that India as a country embodies.
Let us now have a look at some of the markets in Agra that one cannot afford to miss when in the city of Taj!
1) SADAR BAZAAR
Location | Sadar Bazar, Agra Cantt, Idgah Colony
Sadar Bazaar is the heart of Agra for obvious reasons. This is the place where one can find probably every item ranging from leather boots, bags, belts, ethnic dresses, vegetarian and non-vegetarian food joints, Cafes, marble inlay items, junk jewelry, etc. This is one of the oldest markets in Agra and is home to age-old shops where you can find items suitable for every pocket. Apart from this what one shouldn’t ever miss is the famous ‘Chaat’ from ‘Chaat Bhandaar Sadar’. Even cafes such as Café Coffee Day can be visited if one is in mood to find a personal corner for work while sipping a cup of Cappuccino.
2) RAJA KI MANDI
Location | Professors Colony, Civil Lines
Well, this is the ‘Sarojini Market’ of Agra. This is the place where you can find all products related to clothing, beauty products, footwear, jewelry, local food, and whatnot. What makes it different from Sadar is the fact that unlike Sadar it isn’t home to some international brand showrooms and splendid cafes rather it’s a place where with proper bargaining you can buy stuff at very nominal prices. The advantage that this market holds is also its close location to the Railway Station.
3) SUBHASH MARKET
Location | Jama Masjid Rd
Subhash Market is one such place which is flooded with ample local products but the ones which are a must-buy are silk fabrics and especially the intricately woven silk sarees. So to all the ladies out there buying a silk saree from Subhash Bazaar is a must and along with that don’t forget to try some yummy street-style bhel! However, one should keep in mind that the market remains closed on Tuesday.
4) KINARI BAZAAR
Location | Kinari Bazar, Hing ki Mandi, Mantola
It is indeed a paradise for shopaholics because it offers everything from clothing to junk jewelry, from spices to shoes, and from marbles to showpieces. So spending quality time looking for the perfect item through these bustling lanes of the Bazaar is a good choice.
5) SHAH MARKET
Location | Mahatma Gandhi Road, Nehru Nagar, Civil Lines
This is nothing but the go-to place for every gadget freak out there. It is the home to electronic shops, mobile repairing centers, second-hand mobile stores, and also some outlets for your daily needs products. So if any of your tech devices lags in the middle of your mesmerizing tour amidst the architecturally rich city of Agra, you know where to go.
6) FATEHABAD ROAD
Well, it’s not a market per say, but one of those areas in Agra that is home to some high-end hotel chains, food courts, and of course the core of Agra Handicraft and Marble Houses. So if you wish to buy the perfect gifts for your loved ones back home do visit these lavish showrooms which of course a little heavy on the pocket!
7) NAULAKHA BAZAAR
Location | Fatehpur Sikri Rd, Sadar Bazar, Agra Cantt, Idgah Colony
Adjacent to Sadar this place offers some amazing shops for buying books and stationery. Even the grocery shops, beauty parlors, and street food stalls serving Desi Chinese make it an attractive spot for all.
8) HING KI MANDI
Location | Hing Ki Mandi
This place is famous for its beautifully embellished good quality and very affordable shoe market. So if buying a branded shoe pair from Sadar seems a little expensive, do visit this place to cater for the shoe fetish within you.
Now I am going to state some specific shops you could visit to buy the most famous materials of Agra.
1) HANDICRAFT
What can be a perfect item in your treasury more than a well-crafted hand pice from a beautiful and attention to detail hand stitched carpet to a mesmerizing and stunning marble home decor Agra has thousands of well-hand-crafted items to offer.
Bazaar for Artisan Crafts
a) SUBHASH EMPORIUM
More than 60 years old, this place showcases the best marble in Agra. The emporium houses some of Agra’s finest craftsmanship and marble handicrafts. They also have a huge array of inlay table tops, vases, boxes, plates, coasters, and many other things which will make you want to buy them all to adorn your homes.
Location | 18/1, Gwalior Road, Opp BSNL Office, Shahzadi Mandi, Agra
b) UNIQUE ARTS AND CRAFTS
This place houses great marble pieces, ornament items, and mirror work patterns intricately galvanized on showpieces, etc., and with a perfect demo of how a simple marble piece turns into a stunning art piece giving you an experience of what true art looks like.
Location | 33/12A, Fatehabad Rd, Bagichi Binda Bhagat, Tajganj
c) MARBLE COTTAGE
As the very name showcases this place is a collection of some insane marble pieces ranging from small coasters to large living room tables and showpieces. Although a little on the expensive side this place is worth exploring and investing in for some amazing artefacts.
Location | Shop No. 7, Jasoria Enclave, Behind Domino’s Pizza Near GMB Sweet Shop, Fatehabad Rd
d) UP HANDICRAFT AND HANDLOOM CENTRE
This is one such emporium which was set up 2 decades back and homes marble items which will swoon you away, don’t forget to try your hand at bargaining to buy these beautiful reflections of Indian craftsmanship and skill.
Location | 181/1, Fatehabad Rd, Premises Hotel Amar Yatri Niwas, 15th Battalion PAC Quarters, Tajganj
2) LEATHER
If you are a leatherwear devotee or a leatherwear enthusiast then Agra is a place that is nothing but just a haven for you. A city that is well known for its well-crafted leather clothes, shoes, and accessories. A large portion of leather production in Uttar Pradesh comes from Agra making Agra one of the largest leather-producing cities in Uttar Pradesh.
Marketplace for Leathercraft
a) TAJ LEATHER WORLD
Low-key store in a shopping arcade specializing in leather apparel, shoes, bags & accessories.where you find multiple varieties from a pure and well-made leather jacket to affordable and non-leather products.
Location – Ground Floor, Shopping Arcade, B-28, Gopi Chand Shivhare Rd, Sadar Bazar, Agra Cantt, Idgah Colony.
b) LEATHER JUNCTION
As the name suggests, Leather Junction is home to some affordable leather shoes and jackets, offering a wide variety of high-quality products for both men and women. Whether you’re looking for a stylish pair of boots, a sleek leather jacket, or comfortable loafers, Leather Junction ensures durability and craftsmanship at a reasonable price.
Location – Ground floor shop no. 1 Opposite ganga ratan hotel, Front of Howard Plaza Hotel, Fatehabad Road.
3) CLOTHING
What can enhance your beauty more than perfect Indian attire? From an authentic Indian kurta that gives you a lively and vibrant look, to traditional sarees and lehengas that exude elegance, Indian fashion offers a rich tapestry of styles. Whether it’s a casual cotton kurta for everyday wear or a heavily embroidered anarkali for festive occasions, Indian attire brings out the essence of grace and charm
Top Marketplaces for Clothing
a) SURESH CHAND DINESH CHAND
Home to an exquisite collection of silk, polyester, and cotton sarees, perfect for every occasion. From stunning bridal sarees that captivate with intricate designs to minimalist, elegant sarees that are ideal for office wear, this marketplace offers a diverse range to suit every style and event.This version adds a touch of elegance and flow to the description, highlighting the versatility and beauty of the sarees.
Where | Anant Plaza, Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Ramnagar Colony, Civil Lines
b) WALK IN CLOSET
This is the ultimate destination for all young ladies out there! Beautifully designed, the store showcases lehengas, Kurtis, jackets, sarees, and skirts, all hung in a stunning color-coded fashion. It’s a visual treat that feels like stepping into a walk-in closet of fashion dreams, offering a seamless shopping experience for every occasion.
Where | 7B, Taj Road Sadar Bazar
4) FOOD
Agra is famous for its rich culinary heritage, highlighted by the iconic sweet Petha. The city offers delicious street food, including the breakfast staple of Bedai and Jalebi. Snack on Dalmoth, a spicy mix of fried lentils and nuts, and indulge in flavorful Mughlai cuisine featuring kebabs and biryanis, making Agra a delightful destination for food lovers.
a) PANCHI PETHA
This is the most famous shop to buy the most famous sweets i.e. Petha and Dalmoth in Agra. The Petha is available in several flavours such as Chocolate, Saffron, Coconut etc. The Falmouth can also be customized as per preference
Where | Sadar Bazar
b) AGRA CHAAT BHANDAAR
Located in the very famous ‘Chaat Gali’ in Sadar Bazar, this decade-old shop offers some amazingly tangy golgappe, crispy tikkis, and savory pancakes that delight the taste buds. Known for its vibrant flavors and mouthwatering street food, it’s a must-visit spot for anyone looking to indulge in authentic Agra snacks. The bustling atmosphere and the aroma of spices make it a perfect place to experience the local culinary culture.
Where | Sadar Bazar
c) MAMA FRANKY
Located in Sadar again this food joint had a humble beginning with just a shop and now is home to 3 subparts offering vegetarian North Indian delicacies, Chinese specifics and Non-Vegetarian rolls and shawarmas.
Where| Sadar Bazaar
d) SHEROES HANGOUT
This is a heartwarming haven where you can savor incredible food, lovingly prepared and served by a dedicated team of inspiring survivors of acid attacks. Their resilience and passion shine through in every dish, creating a truly special dining experience. This remarkable place radiates warmth and kindness, making it a delightful stop when you are in Agra. Enjoy delicious cuisine in an environment filled with joy and positivity!
Where |Taj Nagari Phase 1, R.K. Puram Phase-2, Tajganj.
e) DEVIRAM SWEETS
This old shop is famous for its steaming hot sabzi and fluffy kachoris which are the essentials for a perfect Agra breakfast and the crispy samosas and crunchy jalebis for a wholesome Agra evening snack, to make your tour complete in all its essence.
Where| Pratapura, Agra
conclusion
Therefore, Agra as a whole is much more than the ‘Monument of Love’ as everyone knows our Vanilla Cascade to be. The colorful markets of Agra are like a spectrum that offers every small and big thing in all price ranges. So next time you decide to visit the city don’t forget to get some Leather boots, some ethnic Kurtis, a small marble replica of The Taj, Angoori Petha, and of course the Kachoris!
