Explore Street Shopping at these Local Manipur Markets!

If you're planning your next trip, then Manipur is calling you. While you take in beautiful scenery and the unique culture, also scroll through some unique markets for shopping enthusiasts. Indulge in the paradise of shopping and explore the unique flea and street markets. 

Manipur is called a 'Jewel of India' and this is justified because this north-eastern state is breathtakingly elegant. With various categories of landscapes located all around the state, Manipur is becoming popular among tourists from all over the world. The entire state is filled with exotic lakes, beautiful waterfalls, lush greenery of thick forests and others.

But apart from the natural beauty, travellers also love to try shopping in Manipur as it is famous for different categories of items that are not found elsewhere in the country. Here's the list of street markets to visit in Manipur.

1. Paona Bazaar 

This is the most visited and one of the oldest markets in Imphal, Manipur. It is popular for its silk sarees, handicrafts, hand-woven shawls, ivory and bamboo items at a reasonable rate. Manipur is quite famous for the said items and in any other place in India, they would cost you a lot. Another exquisite item sold in Paona Bazaar is paper mache (a mixture of paper and glue) products that are found in abundance here.

If you are fond of authentic Manipuri garments or pieces of jewellery, then you must visit the Handicrafts Development Corporation of Manipur, located in the market. Items like Lanshingpee Manipuri blankets, Tangkhul scarves, bamboo artefacts, colourful mats and other items are found here.

Exclusive to the region, you can get unique gifts that make souvenirs to share with your loved ones.

Where: Imphal, Manipur 

When: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

2. Khwairamband Bazaar 

One of the popular places for shopping in Manipur is Khwairamband Bazaar also known as Nupi Keithel. Located in Imphal, it is completely run by women, making it truly unique. It is the oldest and the most diverse market. With more than 3000 different shops and stalls, the Nupi Keithel market is one of the largest markets in India that's run by women. In this vast market, you'll find nearly every imaginable thing, from fresh produce like fruits and vegetables to clothing, shoes, spices, and natural ointments.

Exploring this market will not disappoint you, as it boasts the best restaurants in Manipur located nearby, where you can savour authentic Manipuri cuisine at reasonable prices. Additionally, you'll find decor items made of bamboo or ivory available at affordable rates. Various stores offer woollen garments, hand-woven shawls, and shoes, all without breaking the bank. And don't forget to capture the day through photography, as the market flourishes in its uniqueness.

Very few markets operate this early like sabzi mandi and flower markets but this market has diverse commodities to buy and starts early at 4:30 a.m.

Where: Thangal Bazar, Imphal, Manipur

When: 4:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

3. Tera Bazaar

One of the most charming and beautiful places in Manipur is Tera Bazaar. It is filled with shops selling gorgeous, colourful accessories and operates year-round. Located in the central part of Imphal, Manipur, the market offers authentic handicraft items crafted by talented artisans, all available at affordable prices. If you're shopping on a budget, Tera Bazaar is the place to go.

In addition to fashion accessories, you can find many household items here. After exploring the market, recharge your energy by taking a break and sampling the delicious food served at the local street stalls. Tera Bazaar is just one of the enchanting tourist spots in Manipur that promises a memorable experience. It's advisable to visit this market during weekdays, as weekends tend to draw large crowds. Make sure to hurry as this market closes its doors promptly at 6 p.m.

Where: Nouramthong Road, Imphal, Manipur

When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

4. GM Hall 

Unlike other markets in Manipur, GM Hall stands out as a proper shopping centre. It boasts numerous branded and non-branded stores offering a wide array of items across various categories. However, one aspect that may surprise some visitors is that bargaining is not customary here—all prices are fixed. Nevertheless, the products available are of notably higher quality compared to those found in other markets. You'll find shops offering shawls, woollen garments, shoes, clothing, home decor items, and more during your visit.

With several restaurants situated within GM Hall, don't forget to enjoy a delicious lunch served here and sample authentic Manipuri delicacies. The market is popular not only among tourists but also among the residents of Manipur. Quickly head over as the market shuts at 6 p.m.

Where: Indo Myanmar Road (NH-39), Thangal Bazar, Imphal, Manipur

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

5. Ema Keithel Market

This market stands out as the most popular and unique due to its century-old tradition, preserved by the locals over the years. However, its true uniqueness lies in its designation as 'Mother’s Market'. Ema Keithel is Asia’s largest all-women-run market, where only married women are allowed to trade and run the stalls in this multi-ethnic marketplace. With nearly 5000 female vendors, the market offers everything from top Manipuri art and craft items to traditional clothes, shawls, utensils, toys, and flowers. The concept of a women-run market is not only astonishing but also makes it one of the best places in Manipur.

Established in the 16th century, this commercial centre in Manipur boasts an annual turnover of almost 40-45 crores. It holds a special place in Manipur in terms of tourism and economic development. Unlike other markets, this market starts at the earliest around 4 in the morning trading all the commodities it offers and also wraps up at 6 p.m.

Where: Thangal Bazar, Imphal, Manipur

When: 4:15 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Though the Paona Bazaar stays open late, most markets tend to wrap up in the early hours of the evening. So make sure you check the timings out and get your shopping done by 6 pm.