Top Rated Shopping in Kolkata

With the traditional terracotta horse or the 'Bankura Horse' as its logo, The Central Cottage Industries Emporium or CCIE is a Government of India undertaking started in 1948. Over the years its dedication to preserving and showcasing various facets of Indian heritage has made it a trusted name among many. In fact, it has been visited by the likes of Queen Elizabeth II and Jacqueline Kennedy in the past. Art, handicrafts and handlooms from all over India can be found here. Some of the interesting products include Filgree art objects, Brass and Bronze artifacts, traditional paintings, unique ethnic toys, embroidered works as well as a range of ethnic jewelery and accessories. CCIE also extends its facilities to interior designing and event management projects. A number of events with an aim to exploring and popularizing Indian art are frequently organized by the establishment. If you're looking to buy a few souvenirs, this New Market store is definitely one worth visiting.

In India, there is no dearth of sculptors, painters, craftsmen and other skilled artists and artisans, but there is a lack of the the right platform to these creative groups that hail mostly from rural India. Curio Craft showcases art pieces and ethnic stuff from far off villages and ensure that villagers get a fair price for the same. It has hand-woven Pashmina shawls from Kashmir, sandalwood carvings from Mysore, curios and royal jewelry sets from Jaipur and much more. You can chose from a range of beautiful paintings for your living room or small miniature lamps for your bedside table. The helpful and friendly staff will give you a detailed explanation on each artifacts tirelessly. Be it the string puppets, wooden boxes or delicate accessories, each piece is crafted to perfection. So do not worry about buying gifts for people back home, all you need to do is drop in at Curio Craft.

Auctions have been a long standing tradition in the city, first introduced during the British colonial rule. Once considered to be symbols of wealth and prestige, most auction houses have now closed down due to poor business. Russell Exchange, one of the oldest of its kind in the country, stands neglected on Russell Street; a stark reminder of its glorious past. What was once the premier stop for antiques and furniture only manages to sell a few items that, sadly, can only be termed as junk. Gone are the days of chandeliers and china sets and the celebrity bidders. However, if you do want to visit this auction house, auctions generally take place on Sundays and Thursdays. On any other day, the auction house remains open for people to browse through the display. If you want a detailed account of the history behind Russell Exchange, make sure you speak to one of the employees.

Situated near Baghbazar, Shyambazar and Kumortuli, Shobhabazar or Sovabazar was once one of the most prosperous areas in Kolkata, Maharaja Nabakrishna Deb being one of its most prominent residents in the past. It was also a place that was known for its extravagant Durga Puja celebrations as well as the rich architecture that dominated at the time. Of course, most of the past extravagance is lost today, but it still has an air of nostalgia all around. Today the area is marked by many old markets that sell household goods, Puja items and other such sundries. None of the markets are worth shopping at, but if you want to view something that has stood the test of time, however battered and tattered it may be, do visit this unique neighborhood in North Kolkata.

Sasya is a boutique located at Shakespeare Sarani Road in Kolkata. It is a brand that has a number of designers who are responsible for designing their products. They include Devnagiri, Essence, Iraz, Tunics and so on. They focus on women’s traditional clothing that includes sarees, lehengas and salwar kameez. They also have men’s ethnic wear for a wedding or for a formal meeting. Sasya has also introduced accessories to go with your outfit. So, they aim to give you everything you need under one roof. It is an ideal place to plan a wedding shopping where your bridal dress as well as bridal accessories can be picked up together.

Levi's is one of the most adored international brands in Kolkata. This store on Shakespeare Sarani showcases the latest trends in fashion for men, women as well as children. The busy street has a host of other shops, but Levi's is usually one of the most crowded. Apart from the signature denims, you can also find a number of interesting accessories and other knick-knacks. During the Durga Puja season (usually between October and November), the window display is made vibrant to match the festive air and interesting sales and discounts are introduced. Other Levi's outlets can be found at New Market (Lindsay Street), City Centre (Sector 1, Salt Lake City) and 31 Park Mansions on Park Street.