Diwali is more than just a festival; it's also a shopping extravaganza in Indian cities. The markets burst with energy and lively crowds during this Festival of Lights. The day before Diwali, known as Dhanteras, is particularly auspicious for making purchases, making it a prime time to shop. Shopkeepers eagerly await this season, knowing it brings prosperity to their businesses. If you're planning your shopping for Diwali 2024, don’t miss the vibrant bazaars. Here, you’ll discover an exciting array of clothing, jewellery, lamps, electronics, and decorative items to elevate your Diwali festivities.

　　Mumbai

　　Crawford Market is an iconic landmark in Mumbai that you cannot miss. Designed by the renowned British architect William Emerson, this market was the centre of trade until the 1990s and continues to capture the hearts of locals and tourists alike. As Diwali approaches, it transforms into a vibrant shopping haven, drawing crowds eager to explore its impressive offerings. From stunning clothing and exquisite jewellery to tempting dry fruits and delightful sweets, there’s something for everyone. Whether you're looking for traditional Indian sweets or wholesale Diwali decorations, Crawford Market caters to all tastes.

　　Discover the vibrant crisscrossing lanes of Mangaldas Market in Kalbadevi, a treasure trove for fabric lovers. This bustling market boasts an incredible selection, from breathable linens and soft cottons to luxurious South silks, elegant chiffons, and ornate Banarasi weaves. With countless fabrics and stunning prints waiting to be explored, prepare to be inspired. Keep your goals in mind and enjoy the thrill of finding the perfect material—all while staying within your budget. Don't miss out on this shopping adventure!

　　If you’re passionate about traditional designs and outfits, don’t miss Dadar Market. The shops along Ranade Road in Dadar West are renowned for their extensive selection of festive clothing that will make you stand out. Also, an impressive range of home decor awaits you at the shops. During Diwali, the market comes alive with a stunning variety of diyas and festive accessories to elevate your celebrations!

　　Delhi

　　Sarojini Nagar Market in Delhi is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Founded in the 1950s, this bustling market is renowned for its unbeatable prices on garments, fabrics, and more. During pre-Diwali days, the market becomes a magical shopping haven, offering a treasure trove of options that suit every style and budget. From trendy clothing and stylish accessories to fashionable footwear and unique home decor, this vibrant market has everything you need to celebrate in style.

　　Chandni Chowk has one of the city's most vibrant and captivating bazaars, brimming with an extensive assortment of clothing, jewellery, and everyday essentials. But it’s not just about shopping; the food scene here is truly remarkable, with countless historic restaurants and sweet shops that have delighted visitors for generations. As Diwali approaches, the market transforms into a dazzling spectacle filled with beautiful candles, clay lamps (diyas), clay pots, and twinkling fairy lights.

　　Festival season is the perfect time to explore Dilli Haat in the INA area, a permanent exhibition ground, which is a hub for handicrafts and textiles from across India. As you prepare for Diwali, you’ll discover a dazzling array of vibrant lamps, exquisite diyas, enchanting candles, and unique decorative items that capture the festive spirit. While bargaining isn’t common here, the quality and uniqueness of the products make it worth the visit.

　　Kolkata

　　The shops and pavement stalls around Gariahat and Rashbehari Avenue are a must-visit for buying Diwali gifts and more in Kolkata. The vibrant stretch of shops is one of the must-visit shopping destinations in Kolkata. Think of it as a bigger, lively Janpath, offering a fantastic blend of boutiques and pavement stalls. Here, you can discover everything you desire—trendy clothing, unique kitchen ceramics, all kinds of diyas and rangoli, wooden accessories, charming home decor, and even captivating books.

　　If you are looking for Indian handicrafts and textiles to gift or to decorate your house with, then head to the Dakshinapan Shopping Complex in Dhakuria. The complex houses "state emporiums," which are outlets from every state showcasing their textiles and crafts. For something ethnic, try the Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Rajasthan outlets for block prints and mirror work. You can also find incredible stoles and pherans, as well as papier mache decor at the Kashmir emporium. Apart from the state emporiums, there are many shops on the ground floor selling everything from indigo wraparounds to silver jewellery. It's a large complex with many shops, so come with time in hand. While you're there, visit Dolly's Tea Shop for a cup of Darjeeling and some excellent ham sandwiches.

　　Complete your Diwali shopping while soaking up the heritage ambience at the iconic New Market. Established in 1874 and formerly known as Sir Stuart Hogg Market, New Market is located on Lindsay Street. It is a bustling shopping destination that offers a wide variety of goods in different sections, including food items, clothing, accessories, and handicrafts. Here are some items to consider picking up: silver from the Tibetan silver stores, Shantiniketan leather goods, and hand-embroidered bed and table linen.

　　Chennai

　　Thyagaraya Nagar is a vibrant market teeming with shops that offer a wide array of sarees, exquisite gold jewellery, and more. This lively destination is renowned for its fantastic deals, especially during the festive season, making it the perfect spot for savvy shoppers.

　　George Town is undeniably a popular destination for festive shopping in Chennai. This vibrant market is celebrated for its stunning silk sarees. You’ll discover an incredible array of shops offering everything from toys and perfumes to electronics, jewellery, and fabric.

　　Sowcarpet is the ultimate destination for stunning lehengas, churidars, cholis, and other festive outfits. If you want to score fabulous accessories without overspending, this is the place for you. Don’t miss out on Mint Street, where you'll find a fantastic selection of fabrics, sarees, and more. Plus, you can discover beautifully matching blouses for your festive sarees and stylish footwear and bags that you’ll love.

　　Bengaluru

　　Discover the vibrant charm of Commercial Street in Bengaluru this Diwali. It’s the ultimate shopping haven where you can explore an exquisite range of silks in sarees, kurtas and fabrics. Don’t miss out on trendy western wear, delightful home decor, stunning accessories, and beautiful homeware items.

　　Chickpet Market in Bengaluru is a vibrant hub for Diwali shopping, attracting countless visitors each year. This bustling market is renowned for its exquisite collection of traditional Indian clothing, including intricately designed sarees, kurta sets, and lehengas that beautifully capture the essence of Indian culture. In addition to apparel, Chickpet offers a wide variety of textiles, from luxurious silks to colourful cotton, perfect for creating festive outfits or home decor. The market is also a treasure trove of stunning jewellery, featuring everything from ornate gold to delicate silver.