Nestled in the heart of Indore, Madhya Pradesh, Sarafa Bazaar is a vibrant and bustling marketplace. The dynamic marketplace transforms almost magically from a jewellery market to a food lover’s paradise. This iconic Bazaar has earned its reputation over 2 centuries. And now, the marketplace is responsible for the holes in our pockets and the drool on our faces. You definitely don’t want to miss the one of a kind Sarafa Bazaar in Indore. Want to travel the streets like a boss? Booking a Savaari if you’re on vacation allows you to sit in the car and put down your bags worth of shopping while you satiate your gluttony.
A transforming street
The street of Sarafa Bazaar is a versatile one with more than one area of expertise. The street is bustling during the daytime, with people shopping for gold and silver jewellery. Some of these shops were built in the 1780s. This means that they were visited by the Royal men who came to buy rare pieces of jewellery to woo their women. The jewellery market is still intact and some of the shops served the royals as well. Imagine being able to book a Savaari taxi in Indore and roaming the same streets and bejewelling oneself with the ornaments from the same shops as the kings and queens of Indore.
No one can when or how this started, but during the night, the street twinkles with the lights coming from the hunger Gods. With sundown, Sarafa Bazaar becomes Indore’s lip-smacking, midnight street food hub. The oldest food stall that we know of was opened in 1977. The market is now one of the most famous night street food bazaars in India. Chat, chow mien, and even some desi dessert can bring any Indian down on their knees.
History of The Royal Sarafa Bazaar
Sarafa Bazaar has a rich historical background that dates back to the era of the Holkar dynasty. Initially, the market was known as Chhappan Bazaar and was primarily a hub for gold and silver merchants. Over time, it evolved into Sarafa Bazaar, specialising in jewellery, precious metals, and mouth-watering street food. While speaking to Mr Sharad, who owns a jewellery shop in the Bazaar, I found out some very interesting period facts about the Bazaar. The origin date of the Bzaar is still unclear, but he has had this shop in the Bazaar since 1785.
The Bazaar is located right outside the Rajwada Palace and is crawling with the stories of the Royal Court marching through the Bazaar while the merchants tried to sell their most priced jewels for the women in the court. The grandest of processions were always during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi. On this occasion, the royals would get all dressed up in their turbans and on their horses and march through the market for Ganesh Visarjan (immersion of Lord Ganesh in the water). While returning, on their way, they would stop at the market for ornaments for the crown. At the time, the Rajas and his court had to travel on horseback or foot in the sun’s scorching heat. But you don’t have to. You can just mount your Savaari hourly rental in Indore and buy your relief from the sun in a way even the kings could not.
“At the time, the men came to buy the jewels. They would come, select designs and customisations, and then the kaarigar (artist) would make the piece, and then people would buy designs. However, with the times changing, people now want ready-made products on the go. They like to choose from already existing jewellery, and the culture of customised jewellery is rare. Things have changed a lot over the years. Earlier, the business would take place on Gaddis (Floor cushions), but now everyone wants an A/C showroom with fancy chairs. I can’t say if it is good or bad, but the times have changed”
Jewellery shop owner at Sarafa Bazaar
A midnight gastronomic delight
Sarafa Bazaar is renowned for its street food, tantalizing taste buds and leaving visitors craving more. As night falls, the market transforms into a food paradise with a wide array of mouthwatering delicacies with a minimum of more than 25 stalls. From the iconic Indori poha, bhutte ki kees, and sabudana khichdi to the famous garadu (deep-fried yam), and malpua, Sarafa Bazaar has something to offer for every palate and at all times. The market has a reputation for being one of the best in the country, so much so, that people from all over come here to try the Indian street food. You will often find various food bloggers recording and reviewing the food here. And maybe, if you’re lucky, you can even spot some very famous chefs like Ranveer Brar looking for inspiration for their next edible masterpiece.
The Sarafa night street food market is one of the very few midnight street food markets in India. Indulge in the flavours of the local cuisine and experience the culinary traditions of Indore like never before. But with so many options and only limited space in the human tummy, it is imperative to prioritise and strategies. Here’s a list of Savaari driver-recommended food stalls in Sarafa Bazaar-
- Dahi Bada- The bada is crisp and warm, and the dahi is cool and coupled with the sweet chutney. The “Flying Dahi Badas” At the Joshi Dahi Bada House is very famous and gained popularity. One of the reasons is interesting preparation that involves a lot of throwing and catching of the dahi bada.
Cost – Rs. 60
- Bhutte ki kees- Or grated sweet corn spiced with mustard seeds, reddish, asafoetida and other spices. The sweetness of the corn enriched with the spicy, tangy tastes of the Indian spices is almost like a dream woven by the taste Gods.
Cost – Rs. 40
- Desi Chinese- Chinese food is amazing, but Indians need our desi twist in everything we do, including our Chinese food. The street has unlimited options for some desi Chinese that can prove that we make better Chinese food than anyone in the world.
Cost – Rs. 70- 100
- Cheese/ Paneer Tokri Chaat- The Sarafa Bazaar is the hub of experimental street food. They have come up with this wonder of Tokri (Basket) Chaat with a twist of grated cheese or Panner.
Cost – Rs. 80
- Indori Malai- This is a special Indore beverage made only from coconut water, sugar and coconut cream (malai). It is super healthy and even more refreshing. You’re good to go with one sip of this cool, sweet elixir in a glass.
Cost- Rs. 50
- Garadu- These are sweet potato or yam cubes tossed in a special secret masala, “Garadu masala”, and garnished with lemon juice. The sweetness in the potato with the spice from the masala and the tang from the lemon. Together, it is a tiny bowl of happiness.
Cost- Rs. 50
Jewellery Stores and Glittering Gems
Stepping into Sarafa Bazaar means entering a world of ornate jewellery and precious metals. The market is brimming with jewellery shops that showcase a wide range of traditional and contemporary designs. From intricately crafted gold necklaces and bangles to stunning silver earrings and anklets, Sarafa Bazaar has something to suit every taste and budget. The skilled artisans and craftsmen ensure that the jewellery reflects the region’s rich heritage and exemplifies their craftsmanship. Although the market is best explored blindly, if you don’t have enough time on your hands but do not want to miss out on the shopping here, use this list of customer-recommended jewellery shops in Sarafa Bazaar-
- Geetanjali Jewellery Store- The shop’s owner is a very knowledgeable and sweet uncle who knows the market like the back of his hand. The store specialises in light gold and silver jewellery, customises pieces, and delivers pan India.
- Location- G-3 Shri Balaji complex, 68, Bada Sarafa, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452002.
- Divya Jewellers- Known for their exquisite craftsmanship, Ambika Jewellers offers a wide range of gold and diamond jewellery that reflects timeless beauty and elegance.
- Location- police station, 44, Bada Sarafa 1st floor jagdish bhawan, opp. sarafa, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452002
- Divine Jewellers- Perfect for jewellery enthusiasts for their exceptional craftsmanship and a wide array of traditional and modern gold, silver and diamond designs.
- Location- 31/32, Bada Sarafa, 210 Golden Plaza Narsingh Bazar, Square, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452002
Shopping Tips and Safety
While visiting Sarafa Bazaar, it’s advisable to keep a few things in mind. Bargaining is a common practice, so make sure to negotiate the prices to get the best deal. Additionally, ensure that you visit authorised and reputable jewellery stores to avoid any counterfeit products. As with any crowded marketplace, it’s essential to take care of your belongings and be mindful of your surroundings to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. It is best if you have a local travelling with you. This would make sure that you’re not getting scammed. There is no need to fret about it. Just download the Savaari app, and who knows? Maybe your Savaari driver’s expertise in the area might save you big bucks.
Important information
Location- Sarafa Bazar, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452002
Timings for Jewellery market- 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Timings for street food- 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Best time to visit- We recommend visiting around 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM. So that you get ample time to shop and enjoy the street food later after a tiring day of shopping. This way, if you keep an eye out, you will be able to watch the street change completely.
Best months to visit- Indore can be really hot in the summers. It is advised to visit from October to March. You can also plan to visit on the occasion of Ganapati Visarjan to see the procession.
| Location | Sarafa Bazar, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452002 |
| Timings for Jewellery market | 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM |
| Timings for street food | 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM |
| Best time to visit | We recommend visiting around 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM so that you get ample time to shop and enjoy the street food later after a tiring day of shopping. This way, if you keep an eye out, you will be able to watch the street change completely. |
| Best months to visit | Indore can be really hot in the summers, which is why it is advised to visit from October to March. Youn can also plan to visit on the occasion of Ganapati Visarjan to see the procession. |
Nearby Attractions
Apart from the culinary and shopping delights, Sarafa Bazaar also offers proximity to several attractions worth exploring. You can read about the various things to do in Indore by clicking on this link. Here is a list of places you can visit from Sarafa market-
- Rajwada Palace: Explore the magnificent Rajwada Palace, a stunning blend of Maratha, Mughal, and French architectural styles, and delve into the rich history of the Holkar dynasty.
- Central Museum: Immerse yourself in art and history at the Central Museum, which houses a diverse collection of artefacts, including sculptures, paintings, and archaeological exhibits from various periods.
- Lal Bagh Palace: Step into the grandeur of the Lal Bagh Palace, a majestic 19th-century palace adorned with exquisite European architecture, lush gardens, and a remarkable collection of antiques.
- Pipliyapala Regional Park: Spend a relaxing day at the Pipliyapala Regional Park. You can take a scenic boat ride in the serene lake, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and captivating sculptures.
- Khajrana Ganesh Temple: Seek spiritual solace at the revered Khajrana Ganesh Temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere while admiring the intricately crafted idols.
- Annapurna Temple: Pay homage to the goddess of food, Annapurna, at the Annapurna Temple, known for its distinctive architecture and religious significance among locals and devotees.
- Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary: Embark on a wildlife adventure at the Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and enjoy nature trails, birdwatching, and serene surroundings.
Conclusion
Sarafa Bazaar in Indore is a treasure trove that combines the aromatic delights of street food with the sparkle of exquisite jewellery. With its rich history, diverse culinary offerings, and stunning jewellery stores, the market has carved a special place in the hearts of locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re a food enthusiast looking to explore new flavours or a jewellery connoisseur seeking unique pieces, Sarafa Bazaar is a destination that promises a delightful and memorable experience. So, plan your visit, immerse yourself in the vibrant ambience, and discover the magic of Sarafa Bazaar with your trusted travel companion. Download the Savaari App for luxurious travelling services at affordable prices.
Last Updated on April 4, 2024 by blogadmin
