Best Places to go Shopping in Pondicherry
In Puducherryyou can find almost anything and everything you want. When here, you should indulge in buying textiles, ceramic articles, leather products, perfumed candles, incense sticks, semi-precious stones, and handmade paper from the famous Aurobindo Ashram. Many of the sustainable products offered by the stores are all manufactured in-house at Auroville and are a part of SEDAB (Sustainable Enterprises Development in the Auroville Bioregion). Whether it is the bustling streets of the Grand Bazaar or the zen interiors of an elegant boutique, Puducherryhas got you covered. To remember these days, enmeshed in the happiness of a sojourn, pack your bags full of goodies as Puducherryawaits your return.
La Boutique D Auroville
Location: No. 38, JN Street, MG Road Area, Puducherry, 605001
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La boutique d Auroville is a quaint boutique that abounds in a melange of products. Here, you will find garments that range from kurtis, t-shirts, scarves and stoles. They also have kid’s clothes that are super cute and comfortable. You’ll also come across some exciting home décor and kitchen essentials- like spices, jams and pickles and even crockery. Their collection of handbags and purses is expansive; they suit all their attires and dresses available. Handmade notebooks, candles and perfumes on display are the perfect memorabilia. However, the most interesting finds here include the various musical instruments, some of which you might not even existed or had encountered in the galleries of Auroville.
Must Buy: Kurtis, stoles, handbags, spices, pickles, crockery, handmade notebooks, candles, perfumes & musical instruments
Kalki
Location: 134, Mission St, Heritage Town, Puducherry, 605001
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Mission Street’s Kalki is an indispensable part of Pondy’s shopping experience. It is adored by bloggers, shoppers and fashionistas and revered for its products. This is an ideal spot for retail therapy because it is truly a one-stop shopping destination with a proliferation of Auroville products and brands. Candles, hygiene products like soap, lotions and oil perfume the ambience. Colourful and comfy clothes stay wrapped on the many racks and shelves. The elegant jewellery and chic bags make for the perfect accoutrement. The handmade papers of different hues and textures are ideal for a nifty-crafty person. All these interesting products await you at Kalki, a one-of-a-kind shopping destination.
Must Buy: Candles, soaps, lotions, perfumed oil, garments, jewellery, bags & handmade paper
Grand Bazaar
Location: JN Street, MG Road Area, Puducherry, 605001
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Pondicherry’s Grand Bazaar is the typical Indian market that doesn’t rest until all its items are sold out or until the footfall dries up to a mere trickle. The early mornings and the hot insipid afternoons deter neither the vendors nor the customers. Both the sections, agog over commerce and trade ward off all evil and indolence. The market is divided into various sections as any other Indian market is. The fish, the meat, the vegetables, the spices and the flowers are segregated for good measure- anything else will clutter this grand bazaar further than what is already is. Stop here to behold a Pondy you’ll hardly find anywhere else.
Must Buy: Fish, meat, vegetables, spices & flowers
Pondi Sunday Market
Location: Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Chinnakadai, MG Road Area, Puducherry, 605001
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The Pondy Sunday Market is a weekly bazaar with all the essentials one might need. It is a cross between a convenience store and a flea market that jerks into life every Sunday 10 am onwards. Stores selling books, electronics, and clothes dapple the expanse of this bazaar. Busy haranguing and bargaining characterise this cityscape. One might doubt the quality of the products on offer because they are available (sometimes) at dirt-cheap prices. The Pondy Sunday market might not be as great as Goa’s weekly bazaars but it is nonetheless a good spot to visit especially if flea markets interest you.
Must Buy: Books, electronics & clothes
Providence Mall
Location: Cuddalore Road, Ambedkar Nagar, Orleanpet, Puducherry
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Pondicherry’s paucity of shopping malls was placated when Providence opened up in the city in 2017. Providence has multiple stores owned and operated by national and international brands like- Big Bazaar, MAX, Aurelia, Jockey’s and Woodlands. Its food-court remains well populated with the restaurants and the fast-food outlets (KFC, McDonalds) entertaining the crowds. The Fun Zone meant for kids and adults alike have several options that guarantee an indulgent time. Providence also has 5 SPI screens that provide the best movie-watching experience in the entire city. If you’re looking for an immersive shopping experience under one roof in Pondy, Providence is your best bet.
Must Buy: Food, games & movies
Casablanca
Location: 165, Mission St, Heritage Town, Puducherry, 605001
Open: 07:00 am to 10:00 am | 12:00 pm to 03:00 pm | 06:00 pm to 10:00 pm
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Casablanca is pretty much your standard shopping mall that is until you consider the interiors that are shockingly stunning. Reminiscent of French architecture and profuse in its expressions of it, Casablanca is home to several stores from all across Puducherryand of the world. While you’re here, keep a keen eye on the pottery and home décor. With fun and quirky designs, these will for sure be an exciting to your homes or serve as the perfect souvenirs for friends and family. Visit Casablanca mostly when you need branded, high-end products. At other times, wander off into the local markets that embody the spirit and artistry of Pondy.
Must Buy: Pottery & home décor
