But the real trick to surviving Chor Bazaars in India? Knowing exactly what to buy and where to find it\u2014otherwise, you\u2019ll end up as lost and confused as I was during my first adventure across the Chor Bazaars in India. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The story of Chor Bazaars in India is quite the tale, and it all started in Mumbai. Believe it or not, these markets didn\u2019t always have the name they\u2019re infamous for today. Around 150 years ago, this bustling market was actually known as Shor Bazaar, which fittingly translates to \u2018noise market\u2019\u2014and trust me, with all the loud vendors packed into the narrow lanes, the name was spot on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The market was one of India\u2019s oldest hubs for second-hand goods during the British era. But back in the day, Chor Bazaar in India earned its reputation with tales of stolen cars being stripped for parts and given a whole new identity in minutes! So how did it get this notorious name? Well, that story takes us back to the colonial era, complete with a few errors from the colonial era, and even a cameo from Queen Victoria herself!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Once upon a time, the bustling market we now know as Chor Bazaars in India was simply called Shor Bazaar. \u2018Shor\u2019 means noise, a fitting name considering the cacophony created by vendors shouting over each other in the cramped lanes. But little did anyone know, the name would soon take a surprising turn. From thereon, the name stuck. Opportunistic burglars accepted the new name and subsequently built a central hub to distribute their stolen goods under an official, British delegated bazaar for thieves. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Another amusing tale from the annals of Chor Bazaar history involves none other than Queen Victoria herself during her visit to Bombay. After a violin and some other royal belongings mysteriously vanished from one of her ships, guess where they turned up? That\u2019s right\u2014our very own Mumbai Chor Bazaar! Regardless of which tale you believe, it\u2019s clear that stolen goods found a cosy home in the crowded lanes of this bazaar. Talk about poetic justice\u2014returning the favour to the country that did a fair bit of “shopping” from India during the colonial days!<\/p>\n\n\n\n The winds of change swept through Chor Bazaars in India after independence in 1947. Vigorous efforts were undertaken to cleanse the market of its shady past. Gradually, the market metamorphosed into a haven for aficionados of antique items and collectors of vintage gems. It became a place where history came alive through antique furniture, vintage clothing, old books, and an eclectic array of collectables.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Back in the day, it was easier to find genuine antique treasures from other cities, thanks to the royal families who often discarded items that would eventually make their way here. But let\u2019s be real, you can only sell so many antiques before you run out, right? So, many shop owners turned to the art of replication, offering ‘vintage’ items with a twist. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Today, Chor Bazaars in India are famous for selling all sorts of vintage and antique pieces. Missed picking up souvenirs during your trip to Manali or Shimla? No worries\u2014just swing by here and grab any souvenir you fancy from all over India<\/a>, as you will find any souvenir in Chor Bazaar. And yes, those stolen items\u2014well, they made their way into the bazaar too. The rest, as they say, is history, with Chor Bazaars in India are now popping up in several major cities. Today, sources claim that the Chor Bazaar in Mumbai is now mainly just a vintage goods market. However, after personally witnessing some of the dubious wares on offer, I’m sceptical, to say the least. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Despite their shady origins that trace back to Mumbai, Chor Bazaars in India have carved out a special place, becoming known for hidden treasures, vintage finds, and unbeatable bargains. Almost every city boasts its own version of a Chor Bazaar\u2014whether it\u2019s officially called that or goes by another name\u2014each offering affordable gems just waiting to be discovered. Hunting for clothes or aiming to snag a look-alike of those fabulous gifts PM Modi has been handing out to global leaders<\/a>? You\u2019re bound to find a version of them here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So, let\u2019s embark on a virtual tour of some of the best Chor Bazaars in India. I\u2019ll guide you on where to find them, the best times to visit, and what unique treasures you might uncover\u2014all so you can shop with confidence and a bit of adventure!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ever been to a place that just takes your breath away? For me, Chor Bazaar in Mumbai did exactly that with the most overwhelming smell. Tucked away in the slightly shabby yet charming streets of South Bombay (SoBo), this Mumbai Chor Bazaar location has a vibe that\u2019s impossible to resist. Honestly, I wouldn\u2019t have even found the place if it weren\u2019t for a reliable local car rental in Mumbai with a driver<\/a> who knew the ropes. The melodic call of the azaan, the bustling energy of the local Muslim merchants, and the endless rows of shops selling everything under the sun\u2014it\u2019s all part of the magic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As you stroll through, the aroma of kebabs and sweets from countless makeshift stalls hits you, pulling you deeper into the maze of treasures. From second-hand furniture and quirky d\u00e9cor to rare finds from royal households, Chor Bazaar has a little bit of everything. The colorful, winding streets are filled with hawkers offering you a cup of cutting chai to keep you going.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019ve got the cash and the inclination, I highly recommend picking up something from Chor Bazaar\u2014not just to boast about, but to bring a piece of its lost beauty back home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During my many adventures in Mumbai\u2019s Chor Bazaar, I\u2019ve uncovered some truly amazing finds that I think you\u2019ll love just as much as I do. Here\u2019s a quick guide to the treasures that await you and where to find them:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Looking for incredible handicrafts and antique items? The Mansoori Curio Shop in Chor Bazaar Mumbai is where you want to be. From miniature handmade pieces to vintage furniture, they\u2019ve got it all!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Love to travel? Check out the vintage leather trunks at Taherallys\u2014they\u2019re perfect for adding an old-world charm to your trips. Even if you\u2019re more of a homebody, these trunks make for stunning decorative storage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you hear the soulful tunes of Kishore Kumar or Mohammad Rafi, you\u2019ve found Haji Ebrahim Vinyl Store. This shop in Chor Bazaar Mumbai is a treasure trove of old records, from Bollywood classics to jazz. Just remember, they close at 5 pm on Sundays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re into bright, funky vintage-style posters, the Poster Stuff store has you covered. They offer everything from Bollywood and Hollywood movie posters to iconic ad campaigns like Coke and Fevicol.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the most famous lanes in the market, Furniture Galli in Chor Bazaar Mumbai is packed with shops selling everything from sofas and chairs to beds and cabinets. Fun fact: legend has it that letters from Albert Einstein were once found here!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Remember those old-school dial-up telephones from the early \u201990s? Mini Art Centre in Chor Bazaar Mumbai has them in every color imaginable, perfect for adding a retro touch to your home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hesperisis is a standout shop with a name inspired by the Greek word for the planet Venus. This store is known for its stunning display of vintage-style bottles in all shapes and sizes. Inside, you\u2019ll find shelves filled with antique lamps, curios, mirrors, and chests that look like they\u2019ve been salvaged from old ships. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Camera House is a tiny shop filled with treasures for photography enthusiasts. Old Rolliflex and Pentax cameras line the walls, and the store also offers retro sunglasses and black-and-white photographs. Whether you\u2019re a serious collector or just enjoy exploring vintage items, Camera House is a must-visit in Chor Bazaar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At Just A Glance, you\u2019ll find an impressive selection of period furniture, including marble-topped tables and cane and wood chairs. This antique furniture store, located at 75 Mutton Street, is perfect for those looking to add a touch of elegance and history to their home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lucky Corner is a charming shop located at 82 Khara Tank Road, known for its fantastic brassware collection. From tiffin boxes and hanging plant pots to bird cages and decorative bells, this store offers a variety of beautiful brass items that are perfect for both functional and decorative use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Al-Anwar is one of several lamp shops on Mutton Street, specializing in antique\u2014both genuine and faux\u2014lamps and shades. If you\u2019re redecorating your space with a vintage theme, this store at 121 Mutton Street is worth a visit. You\u2019ll find an array of lamps that can add a warm, nostalgic glow to any room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re a fan of antique clocks and gramophones, look no further than Abdul Gani Ebrahim. This shop at 133 Mutton Street has a storefront filled with clocks of all kinds, and inside, you\u2019ll find gramophones and old radios.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hadi & Co is the place to find authentic antique furniture, chandeliers, and porcelain vases. Whether you\u2019re looking for real antiques or high-quality replicas, this store at 102\/104 Mutton Street has something for every vintage enthusiast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n True to its name, Chandeliers House offers a wide range of light fixtures, but what might catch your eye first are the large blue and red enamel bowls stacked in the shop. Located at 105 Mutton Street, this store is a hidden gem for those looking to add unique lighting elements to their home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Collectors of china figurines will be delighted with the offerings at Royal Art. This shop, located at 109 Mutton Street, is filled with Oriental dolls, animal figures, crockery, and lamps, making it a paradise for collectors of delicate and intricate items.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bought and Sold is a shop that specializes in once-useful metal items that now make for striking decorative pieces. From large brass kettles and enamel buckets to metal cooking utensils and tiffin boxes, this shop at 40-A Mutton Street offers a fascinating array of items that can add a vintage flair to your decor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hidden away at 57 Mutton Street, Toy Curiosity Shop is a delightful find for anyone with a love for vintage toys and curios. The shop is filled with little dolls, miniature locomotives, vintage playing cards, and advertising posters, making it a perfect spot for art directors, collectors, and those working on period dramas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Best time to visit Chor Bazaar Mumbai:<\/strong> Fridays for the liveliest experience. No trip to Delhi is ever complete for me without plunging and splurging into the chaotic charm of Chor Bazaar. I was informed that the bazaar was held in the vast vacant tract of land behind the Red Fort and that I could find anything under the sun there. Known affectionately as the \u201cThieves\u2019 Market,\u201d it became my go-to for everything from quirky antiques to those one-of-a-kind collectables you never knew you needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Chor Bazaar in Delhi is a bustling maze of treasures, each stall offering a slice of the city\u2019s rich history. This market has existed since the 17th century, when Mughal emperor Shah Jahan ruled the roost. Fast forward to the British Raj, and it gained its notorious reputation as a hotspot for allegedly stolen goods. While the days of \u201chot\u201d merchandise might be behind it, Chor Bazaar hasn\u2019t lost its edge\u2014it\u2019s still the perfect place for a bargain hunt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The market was extremely chaotic with makeshift stalls among which a seething mass of people ebbed and flowed. \u201cOrganized Chaos\u201d would be an apt description. The concept of \u201csections\u201d here is more of an abstract idea\u2014expect to find hawkers selling stylish suits right next to someone peddling second-hand calculators, CDs, and even game consoles. Need a mobile phone, a cricket bat, or a tyre? You\u2019ll find them all here, possibly within arm\u2019s reach of each other.<\/p>\n\n\n The market is a treasure hunt of sorts, where you\u2019ll stumble upon everything from multicoloured empty perfume bottles and aftershaves to scratched-up furniture and vehicle spare parts. Sports enthusiasts can find locally made cricket bats, badminton rackets, and footballs, all proudly displayed among a sea of other goods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Carpet sellers and dealers in suspiciously ancient \u201cantiques\u201d are also part of the mix. But let\u2019s be real\u2014most of the goods here are a little worse for wear, second-hand, or possibly stolen. The shiny new items? Probably knock-offs of well-known brands. This is where your Delhiite instincts come in handy\u2014you\u2019ve got to know what you\u2019re looking for and have a sharp eye to spot those authentic-looking fakes. And, of course, you need to wield the ultimate Delhi superpower: haggling. In Chor Bazaar Delhi, it\u2019s not just recommended; it\u2019s essential. You might even snag a car tyre for a fraction of its original price, only to realize later that it was stolen from your own car and sold back to you. Talk about a full-circle bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n What to shop at Delhi Chor Bazaar<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Daytime, especially Fridays for the most vibrant experience. Other places for street shopping in Delhi: <\/strong>Janpath, Chandni Chowk, Sarojini Nagar, Lajpat Nagar, Jwala Heri and GK1, M Block.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Whenever I\u2019m in Kolkata, the first thing I do is gorge on street food<\/a>\u2014because who can resist that? But on my last visit, I was in the mood to do some serious shopping while still staying on budget. A friend told me about the Thieves Market, and I knew I had to check it out. Locally known as “Chor Bazaar,” Thieves Market in Kolkata is a treasure trove for antique lovers. The market is packed with everything from old coins and vintage books to colonial-era furniture\u2014preserving the city\u2019s rich history in the most charming way. As a book lover and someone furnishing a new apartment, this place was a dream come true. I was aiming for a Bridgerton-inspired, Regency-era aesthetic, and I found everything I needed right here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Just a heads-up: Sundays are the busiest, but that\u2019s also when the market is at its most vibrant, with countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered. And here\u2019s a little trick I\u2019ve learned: booking a Savaari cab in Kolkata to Chor Bazaar<\/a> means I can jump right into the action without stressing about parking or carrying my loot around. Plus, with a driver who knows all the shortcuts, I get to spend more time hunting for treasures and less time stuck in traffic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Best time to visit:<\/strong> Sundays<\/p>\n\n\n\n Where: <\/strong>Cossipore, Lalbajar, College Square, Kolkata, West Bengal<\/p>\n\n\n\n Other places for street shopping in Kolkata<\/strong>: New Market, South City Mall, Gariahat Market, Quest Mall, College Street, and Dakshinapan Shopping Complex.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When I was in Chennai, my friends couldn\u2019t stop raving about George Town. They insisted it was the place to be if I wanted to experience the true essence of shopping in the city. So, naturally, I had to check it out. Now, Chennai might not have a traditional Chor Bazaar, but George Town certainly earns its reputation as the most crowded and vibrant shopping district around. So, I booked a Savaari cab in Chennai to help me hit all the must-visit spots<\/a> without breaking a sweat. The spacious cab was perfect for hauling around all my purchases, and trust me, I made the most of it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n A stroll through Burma Bazaar loaded with cheap electronics was enough to get me excited. This market is also known for its soft mulberry silk and the iconic Kanchipuram sarees, which were as beautiful as my friends had promised. But that\u2019s just scratching the surface\u2014George Town turned out to be a treasure trove of toys, perfumes, electronics, jewelry, fabrics, readymade garments, stationery, gifts, traditional handicrafts, clothes, bags, shoes, and so much more. And the best part? The prices were so reasonable, I felt like I was getting away with a steal. It quickly became clear that this is one of the best places for budget-friendly shopping in Chennai.<\/p>\n\n\n Where:<\/strong> George Town, Chennai, Tamil Nadu As a book lover, Moore Market was a must-visit on my list. Originally a British Raj-era building, this market was perhaps Chennai\u2019s first mall\u2014long before the word \u201cmall\u201d even existed. I still remember when my father took my brother and me there to buy his first dissection box. I was in first grade back then, but the instruments were so well-made that I ended up using them when I reached the 8th grade, and they\u2019re still around today!<\/p>\n\n\n\n But it wasn\u2019t just about school supplies. I couldn\u2019t resist buying a stack of books every time I visited. The vendors here lure you into a maze of literary wonders, offering everything from classics to best-sellers and academic textbooks\u2014all at unbeatable prices. Moore Market is also a place of resilience. The booksellers here faced immense challenges during the recent floods in Chennai, but they managed to recover and continue their trade. Besides books, you can also find old electronics, cheap gym equipment, and various household items. It\u2019s the perfect stop for second-hand treasures and a slice of Chennai\u2019s history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Chor](\"https:\/\/www.savaari.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/chor-bazaars-in-India-1.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe wacky origins of India\u2019s Chor Bazaars – Chaos, crime, and craziness<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Chor](\"https:\/\/www.savaari.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Chor_Bazar_-_Mumbai_-_India_.webp\")
The British blunder – Shor becomes Chor<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
A royal twist featuring Queen Victoria<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Queen](\"https:\/\/www.savaari.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/queen-victoria-1024x768.jpeg\")
From royal relics to replicas – The evolution of Chor Bazaar<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Shopping](\"https:\/\/www.savaari.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Chor-bazaars-in-India.webp\")
Steals, deals, and all that\u2019s real – A shopper\u2019s guide to Chor Bazaars in India<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Chor Bazaar, Mumbai – The Godfather of Chor Bazaars in India<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
What to shop at Chor Bazaar Mumbai<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Handicrafts and Antiques<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
![\"Chor](\"https:\/\/www.savaari.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/chor-bazaar-mumbai.webp\")
Storage<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
Vinyl Music<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
Posters<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
Furniture Galli<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
Vintage Goods<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
![\"Chor](\"https:\/\/www.savaari.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Chor-bazaar-in-Mumbai.webp\")
Antique Decor<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
![\"Chor](\"https:\/\/www.savaari.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/chor-bazaar-mumbai-1.webp\")
Vintage Cameras and More<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
Antique Furniture<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
Brassware Treasures<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
Antique Lamps and Shades<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
![\"Chor](\"https:\/\/www.savaari.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/mumbai-chor-bazaar-1024x683.jpg\")
Clocks and Gramophones<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
Authentic Antique Furniture<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
Unique Light Fixtures<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
China Figurines and More<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
Decorative Metal Items<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
Vintage Toys and Curios<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
Mumbai Chor Bazaar location:<\/strong> Mutton Street, near Bhendi Bazaar, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Chor Bazaar timings:<\/strong> Open daily, with Fridays being the most vibrant
Other places for street shopping in Mumbai: <\/strong>Colaba Causeway, Crawford Market, Zaveri Bazaar, Heera Panna Market, Lalbaugh Market, Hindmata Market, Linking Road in Bandra.<\/p>\n\n\n\n2. Delhi\u2019s Chor Bazaar – The treasure hunt approved by the Mughals<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Deals so good, it\u2019s almost criminal – Shopping at Delhi Chor Bazaar<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Delhi](\"https:\/\/www.savaari.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Chor-bazaar-delhi.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Best time to visit<\/h5>\n\n\n
![\"Chor](\"https:\/\/www.savaari.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Chor-Bazaar-in-Delhi.webp\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n
Chor Bazaar Delhi location:<\/strong> Meena Bazaar, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi.
Chor Bazaar timings:<\/strong> Open daily, from 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Pro Tip: <\/strong>Whenever I visit, I always make sure to go during the day. Trust me, daylight makes it so much easier to spot those hidden gems. Plus, booking a Savaari cab in Delhi with a chauffeur <\/a>who knows the ropes\u2014parking the car safely and giving you plenty of space for all your shopping\u2014adds an extra layer of security to your spree. And if you\u2019re like me\u2014someone who loves a good haggle\u2014remember to keep it friendly. The vendors here have seen it all, and a little charm can go a long way in scoring that perfect deal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n3. Thieves Market, Kolkata – Treasure or trap?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
What to buy from Thieves Market, Kolkata<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
![\"Chor](\"https:\/\/www.savaari.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Chor-bazaar-kolkata.webp\")
4. <\/strong>George Town – Chennai\u2019s Chor Bazaar<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Street](\"https:\/\/www.savaari.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Chor-bazaar-Chennai.webp\")
What to buy from George Town Chennai<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\n
Chor Bazaar timings:<\/strong> Open daily, with Sundays being the most vibrant<\/p>\n\n\n\nSpecial mention for Book lovers – Moore market<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Chennai](\"https:\/\/www.savaari.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/book-market-moore-market-chennai.webp\")
![\"Chor](\"https:\/\/www.savaari.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Bangalore-chor-bazaar.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Chor](\"https:\/\/www.savaari.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Bangalore-Sunday-Bazaar.webp\")