Shopping in Bangalore
Discover 52 markets, shops, and shopping spots in Bangalore, India. From local markets to specialty stores — curated from real traveler tips.
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Forum Mall
The Forum on Hosur road is in the upmarket suburb of Koramangala, fast becoming a key shopping hub in Bengaluru. It is the largest mall in Bengaluru, covering an area of 650,000 ft² (60,000m²) of retail space. Again like other shopping areas, you can find anything at the Forum, high international brands such as Tommy Hilfiger, Swarovski crystals to traditional Indian Khadi clothing at the Khadder. Other brands with outlets include: United Colours of Bennetton (much cheaper here than in the west), Pepe Jeans U.K, William Penn, Wrangler Jeans, Weekender and of course Nike. The Forum incorporates the clothing from international brands as well as haute couture boutiques including: Mustard, Isis, B and the Chai shop. For books head straight to Landmark and huge store has everything from books to perfumes and music. On the top floor of the mall you will find a PVR multiplex comprising 11 cinemas. For eating there is everything, Fast food (KFC, McDonalds, Pizza Hut, Subway) Cafe Coffee Day and a food court with world cuisines including: Chinese, Vietnamese, Mexican and Italian and Indian. Not to be missed is the Indian cuisine at Sahib Sindh Sultan and the British style pub, Firangi Pani. So that is a forum for all your shopping needs under one roof. Its just a must see, especially the outside.
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Marathahalli Main Road and Factory Outlets
Located a distance from central Bengaluru (although not difficult to reach), is Marathahalli (a village in a previous life). The main road of this suburb is now a haven for factory outlets for all major brands: Nike, Adidas, Pepe Jeans, Killer Jeans, Louis Phillipe, Levi's, Reebok etc. You can expect prices here to be cheaper than in the Malls, at least 20-30% price difference but can be up to 50% cheaper when it comes to some of the major denim brands. As if India wasn't cheap enough. Although this is the best place to go to for factory outlet shopping, there are smaller factory outlets scattered across the city. Also look out for sales held by the major brands to get rid of end of season stock (again end of summer or end of monsoon), these are usually advertised in newspapers or look for signs posted on major roads.
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Sampige Road, Malleswaram
Sampige Road is the heart of Malleswaram and connects Sheshadripuram to IISc. Sampige Road is around 2 km, has a wide range of shops that sells books, electronic items, silk sarees, handicrafts, cloth materials, Hindu pooja materials, sweets and all the trivial things you can buy on earth. Also try Malleswaram 8th cross on Sampige road (aptly named Brigade Road of Malleswram) for a vibrant shopping experience. Sampige Road is also home to best flower market and fruits market in Bengaluru. If you are tired of going to individual shops you can go for the best departmental stores in Bengaluru like Fabmall, Foodworld and Nilgiris.
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Lifestyle
A two-story store on Victoria Road in the heart of the new mall shopping district with malls like Garuda Mall, Bengaluru Central and Globus, all within easy walking distance and was one of the most coveted stores until the malls came along. It's an easy place to go shopping when you don't want too many options to confuse you or when you're tired and don't want to visit too many shops- you can get everything under one roof here. Good for clothes, cosmetics, watches, jewelry, shoes etc. You also get stylish furniture and other home and living items for a decent price.
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Safina Plaza
The sale capital of Bengaluru, located on Infantry Road. Every week there is sale going on of any type. One week it might be home furnishings and the next men's wear. Good place to find some bargains. Many exhibitions are also held here, although there are retailers (Dockers, Lee Jeans, Titan too name a few) here too. So for quiet shopping come here (much less crowded than the other malls). Its best to visit during end of season sales (summer, monsoon) or during festivals (New Year, Christmas, Ganesh Chaturthi).
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Necessary Evil
Casual luxury has finally reached Bengaluru with the opening of it's newest concept store. Necessary Evil will be offering shoppers the latest international brands such as 7 For All Mankind, Splendid and Alice+Olivia. Some of which are in India for the first time. They also offer and exclusive line of fine jewellery and home furnishings. This is definitely a space not to miss - so come see, be seen and get fabulous call in advance for a personal shopping experience.
12th A main, HAL 2nd stage, Indiranagar Website -
Gandhi Bazaar
One of the oldest shopping areas in Bangalore, Gandhi Bazaar stretches for a short kilometer or so, bordered on both sides by shops selling everything from saris and clothes to plastics and kitchen utensils, fronted by vegetable and fruit stalls. Do not forget to visit ''Vidyarthi Bhavan'' whenever you come here for this is the best South Indian restaurant in Bangalore selling the most heavenly dosas.
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Jayanagar Shopping Complex
From antique jewelry stores (the famous Bhavani's, the more recent Kushal's, The Gallery), the authentic gold jewelry stores, saree stores (Kalamandir, Kalaniketan, Mysore Silk Udyog), sweet meat stores (Sri Krishna Sweets, Arya Bhavan), classic Iyengar bakeries, dress stores (Paridhan, Rangoli, Bafna's, Vinayaka Collections), and food stores that sell fresh vegetables, fruits, meat, and butter.
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Premier Book Shop
Is a venerable Bengaluru institution that has books on every conceivable subject literally stacked from floor to ceiling. Although the store may appear to be utterly chaotic, the owner knows where every piece of his stock lies - just be careful with those elbows, a slight nudge and the whole place will come tumbling down. This store however, will shut down shortly.
46/1 Church St -
Arnav
The quaint little jewellery store located at Ashoka Pillar, Jayanagar makes for very interesting jewellery buys, a range of antique, restored, contemporary and fusion jewellery are on display. They could help you design a piece of jewellery to suit your needs, an in-house jewellery consultant could help you choose your jewellery.
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Sakhi by Chandras
Combines traditional fabrics and craftsmanship with contemporary themes. Sakhi’s sarees, salwars and kurtis combine kanchivaram, tussar, chiffon, georgette, crêpe, organza and cotton with traditional techniques such as cut work, block print, kalamkari, badla, mirror work, chamki (sequins) and embroidery in a mélange of colours.
6th main, HAL 2nd stage, Indiranagar Website -
Miras Carpet Industries
Manufacturers and exporters of carpets, rugs, kilims, Indian handicrafts, jewellery, pashmina shawls, cashmere scarfs, silk sarees, etc. Claims to be the biggest dealer of Oriental carpets and rugs in Bangalore, selling high quality and "locally priced" wares. Valet car parking available.
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Habitat
"Movies and Music", Church Street, Off Brigade Road is tiny compared to other retail music/movie stores, but its a delight for lovers of good music especially Jazz. Has an excellent and varied selection of DVDs for rent as well, though membership is currently closed.
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Select Bookshop
Used to be the only old bookstore. Mr Murthy, who runs the bookstore, is one of the most knowledgeable people. His grandfather started the bookstore. He also has a collection of lithographs, stained glass paintings and collectors copies of antique books.
Brigade Rd -
Landmark
A modern bookshop. A good place to pick up the most recent publications. Various household appliances; CDs and DVDs of music albums, computer and video games (the quality varying from time-to-time) and movies can also be found on the next floor.
Luskar Hosur Rd, Koramangala -
President's Groom Concepts
Two Menswear fashion stores, established 25 years. Fine fabrics for made-to-order and a large ready-to-wear collection. Bespoke suits and made to order clothing including tuxedos, business wear to traditional Indian kurtas and sherwanis.
B.v.k.iyengar Rd and Kamraj Rd -
Tata Book House
At the Indian Institute of Science, Malleswaram. Has a large collection of technical books, on which it offers a flat 20 percent discount. Lots of books in a small place. Also worth visiting just because it is in IISc.
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Crossword
A hot spot for books of various genres combined with seating areas, spacious racks- music and movie section, children's section and a coffee shops; this proves to be a wonderful hangout to read, browse and shop.
Residency Rd -
Streelekha
This is a great bookstore to explore the feminist literature and activism that is being produced in India, as well as other texts on the research and work of Indian NGOs. The atmosphere is relaxing and inviting.
33/1-9, Thyagaraja Layout, Jaibharath Nagar -
Chandi - The Divine Gallery
Specialising in Indian divine figures in all mediums. Claims to have the biggest collection of Ganeshas in Bengaluru. High-quality and locally-priced wares, supposedly no pushy salesmanship.
MG Rd -
Gangarams Indiranagar
Open from Monday to Sunday. A wide selection of fiction and non-fiction books, including textbooks and professional works, Stationery, Multimedia, Movies, Toys, Art Material and Gifts.
330/9 Axis Road Domlur Inner Ring Rd. Domlur Layout. Near Indira Nagar Flyover 10AM-8PM Monday to Sunday -
Bookport
They stock hand picked books on art, literature, philosophy, gender&sexuality, film, feminism, current critical thinking, fiction, travel. Also do art & literature events.
Casa Andree II, Ist floor, No 18/3, Andree Rd Website -
Sapna Book House
This is a large bookstore, they also have branches in three other locations Sadashivnagar, Jayanagar, and Indiranagar. Sapna Book House also provides online book delivery.
3rd Main Rd, near Kamat Yatri Nivas, Gandhi Nagar Website -
The Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporium
A large store, offering a wide selection of some of Karnataka's best hand made products. The carvings made of Mysore sandalwood are an especially good buy.
45 MG Rd -
Kala Madhyam Store'
Folk and tribal art paintings, handicrafts from across India, clothing for women. Specialises in wall murals of folk and tribal art as well as terracotta.
2nd floor, Flat No 2, Benson Town #77/8, Nandidurg Rd Website -
Central Cottage Industries Emporium
A government run store promoting traditional Indian hand crafts. The CCIE has major outlets in New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru and Chennai.
MG Rd -
Elloor Library
A circulating library that has a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books, including new titles. Requires membership which includes a deposit.
Blue Cross Chambers, Infantry Rd -
Oxford Book Store
Has some of the latest collection of books and magazines but, doesn't offer any discounts. It has a Chai Bar attached offering 69 blends of tea.
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Chilli Billi
Great for women's westernwear', especially the dresses, good collection of bags, shoes and jewellery. They also offer home decor solutions.
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Stritva near ITPL
Sells readymade salwar suit / kameez, kurtas, dress material, sarees and nightwear. The store has a good collection at good prices.
294, 8th main, BEML Layout, ITPL Main Rd Website -
Fusion Rental
Online renting of books & movies. Vast collection of both books & movies at one place. Free pick up & delivery all over Bengaluru.
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Bengaluru Central
Opened around the same as the Forum, Bengaluru Central is more of a large department store than a mall with separate retailers.
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Goobes Book Republic
Secondhand and new books on a wide variety of subjects and a very cost effective library option and buy back used books.
46-1-1 Church St, Karnataka Website -
Axis Books
Started by one of the members of the Gangarams family. They stock books, stationery, multimedia, movies, and toys.
330/9 Axis Rd Website -
Garuda Mall
Located on the corner of McGrath and Commissariat Roads, is the newest and the second largest mall in Bengaluru.
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Blossoms
There are 3 full floors of those rare, hard to find old books. All 2nd hand, good condition and at low rates.
Church St -
Mahendra Textiles
Sarees and dress materials from Surat, Mumbai, Kolkata, Rajasthan, Varanasi, Kerela and Srilanka.
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Levitate-InDiA in A RooM
Silver & costume handcrafted Jewellery, Bohemian apparel, Indian kitsch, lifestyle accessories.
100 Ft. Rd -
Gangarams Mg road
A wide selection of fiction and non-fiction books, including textbooks and professional works.
Triumph Tower, 2nd Floor, 48 Church St Open from Monday to Saturday -
C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons
14,000 sq ft dedicated to the finest gold and diamond jewellery, spread over two floors.
2-1 Main Cross Rd Website -
The Bookworm
This is a small used book store. Good bargains on used and new books are available here.
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Royal Arts & Crafts
21 K.H. Rd. Has a particularly wide selection of silk carpets and paper mache products.
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The Strand book stall
Best known for the latest releases in art, design, architecture and all at good prices.
Dickenson Rd Website -
Native Place
Loads of interesting merchandise, crafts made by NGOs, c/o The Only Place Restaurant.
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Higginbothams
This bookstore has a good selection of maps, postcards, guides and novels.
68 MG Rd -
Giantti Luxury Ensemble
Diamond & gold jewellery along with silver articles and idols.
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Aura Creations
Designer Boutique with exclusive dress materials.
Shop No.3, Plot No. 2 Nandagokula Layout, Shampura Main Rd -
One G
(Jewellery) Hatworks Boulevard, Cunningham Rd.
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Marmalade
Loads of affordable young designer wear.
Magrath Rd -
Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation
Specialises in Karnataka handicraft.
45 K.S.H.D.C Complex, MG Rd -
Mantri Square
It is located in Malleswaram.
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C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons-The Heritage Store
Dedicated to gold and silver.
35 & 36 Commercial St Website
Travel tips by Wikivoyage contributors (CC BY-SA 3.0). Data may have changed — verify opening hours before visiting.
Shopping Guide for Bangalore: Markets, Stores & Souvenirs
Shopping in Bangalore is one of the best ways to experience the city's local culture beyond the usual tourist trail. Whether you're browsing open-air markets for fresh produce and local delicacies, hunting for antiques in backstreet shops, or searching for artisan crafts and design goods to take home, Bangalore's shopping scene has something for every kind of traveler and every budget.
This guide covers 52 shopping spots in Bangalore sourced from Wikivoyage — the traveler-written travel guide — ensuring you're getting recommendations from real visitors who've been there. Unlike algorithmically ranked lists, these are the shops, markets, and stores that travelers actually tell each other about.
Types of Shopping in Bangalore
Bangalore's shopping landscape includes several distinct categories. Markets are the heart of local commerce — weekly or daily gatherings where you'll find fresh food, second-hand clothing, handmade goods, and antiques at prices far below tourist shops. Specialty stores in Bangalore often have decades of history and deep expertise — bookshops, wine merchants, tea rooms, craft suppliers, and independent fashion boutiques. Souvenir and gift shops vary widely in quality: the best ones in Bangalore sell locally made products, while others sell identical mass-produced goods found in every city. This guide steers you toward the former.
Shopping Tips for Travelers in Bangalore
- Visit markets early. The best stalls at Bangalore's markets fill up fast. Arrive in the first hour of opening for the widest selection and freshest goods, especially for food markets.
- Carry local currency. Many independent shops and market vendors in Bangalore prefer cash. Have small denomination local currency on hand to avoid problems at card-only or cash-only stalls.
- Check opening days carefully. Many specialist shops in Bangalore close on Sundays and some close on Mondays or Wednesday afternoons. Always verify hours before making a special trip.
- Ask about provenance. When buying what appears to be locally made or artisan goods in Bangalore, don't hesitate to ask where items are made. Genuine local products make far better souvenirs than imported look-alikes.
- Budget for customs limits. If you're traveling internationally, keep in mind duty-free allowances for your home country, especially for food products, alcohol, and tobacco bought in Bangalore.
- Bargaining culture varies. In some markets in Bangalore light bargaining is expected; in most established shops, the price is fixed. Follow local cues — if other shoppers are negotiating, it's acceptable; if prices are clearly marked, they typically aren't.
Best Souvenirs to Buy in Bangalore
The most meaningful souvenirs from Bangalore are the ones that can't be bought elsewhere — locally produced food and drink, handmade objects by local artisans, books published in the city or about the region, and items that reflect the city's distinct cultural identity. Avoid mass-produced miniatures and branded merchandise that you'll find in identical form in every tourist shop. Instead, focus on the specialty stores and markets listed in this guide where authentic local products are the norm.
Shopping Neighborhoods in Bangalore
Like most cities, Bangalore's best independent shopping is concentrated in specific neighborhoods rather than spread evenly across the city. Historic city centers and old towns tend to have the highest density of specialty shops, antique dealers, and design boutiques. Residential neighborhoods often host the best local food markets and everyday shopping that tourists rarely discover. This guide's listings span the city so you can plan your shopping around whichever neighborhoods you're already visiting.
Meet Fellow Travelers While Exploring Bangalore
Solo travel and group shopping are not mutually exclusive. Many Nomax users find travel companions for market days, afternoon shopping strolls, or finding someone who knows the city well enough to point you to the best local stores. Download Nomax to connect with other travelers currently in Bangalore — whether you want a market guide, a fellow bargain hunter, or simply someone to share the discovery of a great find.
Frequently Asked Questions: Shopping in Bangalore
Where to shop in Bangalore?
Bangalore has 52 curated shopping spots including markets, specialty stores, and local boutiques. This guide covers the best places to shop, from open-air markets with local produce and handmade goods to bookshops, antique dealers, and souvenir stores. Use the Nomax app to connect with fellow travelers who can share their favourite shopping finds in Bangalore.
What souvenirs to buy in Bangalore?
The best souvenirs from Bangalore are those that reflect the city's culture and craftsmanship — local food specialties, artisan products, books about the city or region, handmade ceramics or textiles, and locally produced beverages. Markets are the best place to find authentic souvenirs at fair prices. Other travelers on Nomax often share tips on where to find genuinely local products versus tourist-trap shops.
Are there any markets in Bangalore?
Yes, Bangalore has several markets listed in this guide including weekly food markets, antique fairs, and craft markets. Markets are excellent for experiencing local daily life and finding unique items you won't find in chain stores. Opening days and hours vary — check individual listings for current schedules before visiting.
What are the best specialty shops in Bangalore?
Bangalore has a range of specialty shops covering books, design, fashion, food and drink, antiques, and local crafts. Many of the shops in this guide are independent stores with deep expertise in their niche — a far better experience than mall shopping. The listings here are sourced from traveler community knowledge, so they tend to be the kinds of places locals actually recommend.
How do I find shopping companions in Bangalore?
Download Nomax to instantly connect with other travelers in Bangalore. Whether you want a local recommendation, a shopping companion for a market day, or someone who knows where to find the best local products, Nomax lets you chat with and meet fellow travelers in the city. It's free and available on iOS and Android.
Is it safe to shop in Bangalore as a solo traveler?
Shopping in Bangalore is generally safe for solo travelers. At markets, keep an eye on your belongings and use a secure bag. For valuable purchases, ask for receipts and check the return policy. When browsing late-evening markets, stick to well-lit areas. Connect with other travelers on Nomax for up-to-date safety tips from people currently in Bangalore.
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