With a number of street shops and malls all over, Kolkata has always been known to spend copious amounts of time and energy on shopping. Catering to the rapidly evolving shopping trends, South City Mall is designed to be a one stop shop with a number of international as well as Indian brands under its wing. Located opposite Jodhpur Park, this wide glass structure is visually stunning and rightly projects the grandeur that awaits inside. With special attention to harmonious design, shops are placed systematically in order to appeal to the customer. Some of the brands found here include Pepe, Zodiac, Wills Lifestyle and Reebok. Those who crave refreshments after or in between their shopping spree can visit Food Talk, a large food court serving all kinds of mouth watering specialties. The multi-level parking lot can accommodate about 1400 cars; even so, it is sometimes tough to find parking space on weekends. This swanky establishment is considered the best in southern Kolkata and is always dotted with teenagers and students at any given time.
Quest is a very famous and the most preferred shopping mall in the Park Circus area of Kolkata. It is also the second largest shopping mall in the city. This mall was inaugurated in the year 2013. It is a huge shopping mall with ample parking space. Customers need not worry about getting a place to park their cars as it can accommodate 1300 vehicles at one time. Some of the famous brands available in this mall are Jashn, Gucci, Paul Smith, Rolex, MAC, United Colors of Benetton, Nike, Adidas, Puma and so on. The mall also consist of a food court and is always filled with people. KFC, Pizza Hut and Red Mango are a few restaurants where shopaholics can relax after spending a hectic day at the mall. The mall also has other international dining restaurants.
Although the street may not look like it understands technology, Chandni Chowk Market is the place for gadget shopping in Kolkata. The ambiance is that of any busy Indian market, and you can choose to step into one of the little shops or browse the thelas (open stalls) that line the footpath. Whether it's amplifiers, hi-fi systems or computer components that you're looking for, this is where you will find them, cheap and easy. Audiophiles of all ages can be found roaming the narrow streets in search for the perfect gadget. Just make sure you master the art of bargaining before you enter here. As it is the case with most street shopping, quality is never guaranteed but it seems to work for many, nevertheless.
Forum Mall is a perfect shopping destination that caters to the needs of the entire family. Spread across a vast area of 2,00,000 square feet, it's a perfect example of the changing shopping habits of the urban crowd. This huge space accommodates a variety of retail outlets, dining options, a multiplex and houses many important fashion labels. Check out the chic clothes at Satya Paul or avail of the discounts offered at Levi's, the choice is all yours. The food court 'Burp' has something for every foodie, including fine dining restaurants like Oh! Calcutta, Starstruck and fast food joints like Pizza Hut. Forum also has a gaming zone to keep your kids busy, while you shop. Assortment of shops, ample parking space, good entertainment options, make Forum Mall a cool hangout space for one and all.
Vardaan Market is one of the oldest air conditioned shopping arcades in the city and the sheer number of people that it attracts on a daily basis bears testimony to its continuing popularity. Located in Carmac Street, this large three-storied space is lined with shops selling everything from clothes and accessories to electronic gizmos and durables. A number of shops selling music, gadgets and jewelery welcome you as you enter the arcade. The basement level is dedicated to imported apparel where as the first floor is dominated by traditional Indian wear. Everything available here tends to be reasonably priced and quality is never compromised. The market is decorated and brightly lit during Durga Puja season and the crowd doubles during the season. One of the most adored features of Vardaan Market is the variety of street food available at its entrance: Bengali favorites like jhal muri and puchkas are a great way to put an end to the shopping spree!
If the city center has New Market, south Kolkata has Gariahat; although it does not match the New Market's popularity, it remains one of the main shopping areas in the city. If you're looking for traditional Indian wear, especially sarees, at relatively cheaper prices, this is the place to visit. A number of covered shops sell everything from electronic goods and furniture to clothes and accessories at fixed prices. But the hawkers on the pavement are the ones to turn to if you're looking for some great bargains. You can also find relatively modern establishments like the Gariahat Mall, Gariahat AC Market and a Fab India outlet on the same street. Like all good bazaars, Gariahat has a number of eateries, the most popular being Bedwin, along the way. The Gariahat fish market is considered to be the best of its kind in town. Get a local to give you a few bargaining tips before you start the shopping spree!