Ratlam offers a unique shopping experience blending traditional markets, specialty foods, handicrafts, and gold wire work. Here’s everything a tourist needs to know:
1. Gandhi Chowk & Surrounding Markets
Location: City Center
Best Time to Visit: 10 AM – 9 PM
What to Buy:
- Readymade garments
- Footwear & accessories
- Electronics & mobile accessories
- Gift items & home décor
- Books & stationery
Popular Shops:
- Local brand showrooms (Max, Levi’s, etc.)
- Bata & other footwear stores
- Sharma Electronics
- Popular bookstores
Tourist Tips:
- Weekends are crowded
- Parking available but limited
- Good for family shopping
- Fixed prices in branded stores
2. Sarafa Bazaar (Gold & Silver Market)
Location: Near Jama Masjid, Old City area
Best Time to Visit: 11 AM – 7 PM (Closed on Sundays)
What to Buy:
- Gold wire jewelry (Ratlam’s specialty)
- Silver artifacts & utensils
- Traditional gemstone jewelry
- Bridal jewelry sets
- Antique coins & collectibles
Popular Shops:
- Mohanlal Jewellers (renowned for gold work)
- Ratlam Silver House
- Heritage Jewelers (for traditional designs)
Tourist Tips:
- Check BIS hallmark for gold (916 purity)
- Ask for making charges separately
- Get proper bills for insurance purposes
- Best for wedding shopping & special occasions
3. Station Road Market (Main Market Area)
Location: Around Ratlam Railway Station
Best Time to Visit: 10 AM – 8 PM (Evenings are liveliest)
What to Buy:
- Ratlami Sev & Namkeens (Must-buy local snack)
- Traditional Rajasthani & Malwari jewelry
- Cotton & silk sarees
- Leather mojris (footwear)
- Daily wear clothing at budget prices
Popular Shops:
- Bhawani Namkeen Bhandar (for authentic Ratlami sev)
- Shree Raj Ratlami Sev (packed snacks for gifting)
- Local jewelry stalls near Station Circle
- Various fabric stores along main road
Tourist Tips:
- Bargaining is expected (start at 30-40% less)
- Try sev samples before buying
- Carry cash as many small shops don’t accept cards
- Watch your belongings in crowded areas
4. Local Handicraft & Souvenir Shops
Location: Near Kedareshwar Temple & Museum area
Best Time to Visit: 10 AM – 6 PM
What to Buy:
- Wooden handicrafts
- Tribal art & paintings
- Miniature sculptures
- Handwoven textiles
- Local pottery
Popular Shops:
- MP Handicrafts Emporium
- Local artisan stalls near temples
- Cottage industry outlets
Tourist Tips:
- Support local artisans directly
- Great for unique souvenirs
- Shipping available for bulky items
- Ask about the making process
5. Modern Shopping Complexes & Malls
Location: Various locations in new city area
Best Time to Visit: 11 AM – 9:30 PM
What to Buy:
- Branded clothing
- Cosmetics & perfumes
- Movie tickets & entertainment
- Food court meals
- Supermarket groceries
Popular Centers:
- Ratlam Central Mall (largest in city)
- City Square Mall
- Big Bazaar (for groceries & household)
- Reliance Trends & Smart Bazaar
Tourist Tips:
- AC comfort during hot days
- Fixed prices, no bargaining
- Food courts offer local & cuisines
- Parking facilities available
SHOPPING CHECKLIST FOR RATLAM TOURISTS
Must-Buy Items:
- Ratlami Sev (multiple varieties)
- Gold wire jewelry (even small pieces)
- Handmade mojris
- Malwa cotton sarees
- Local spices & masalas
Shopping Precautions:
- Always count your change
- Keep digital payment screenshots
- Verify weights for loose items
- Check expiry dates on packaged foods
- Avoid too-friendly touts offering “special deals”
Payment Methods Accepted:
- Cash (preferred in old markets)
- UPI/PhonePe/Google Pay
- Cards in malls & bigger stores
Shipping & Packing:
- Namkeen shops provide airtight packing
- Jewelers give proper boxes & certificates
- Postal service available near Head Post Office
- Courier services in market areas
BEST TIMING FOR SHOPPING:
- Mornings (10 AM-1 PM): Least crowded, fresh namkeen stocks
- Evenings (5-8 PM): Vibrant atmosphere, more shops open
- Avoid: Sunday evenings (many shops closed)
TRANSPORTATION FOR SHOPPERS:
- Auto-rickshaws: Best for market hopping (agree on fare first)
- Cycle rickshaws: For short distances in crowded markets
- Taxi Apps: Ola available for mall visits
- Parking: Available at malls, limited in old markets
GIFT SUGGESTIONS:
- For family: Ratlami sev packs (₹50-500 range)
- For friends: Mini jewelry or keychains
- For colleagues: Mixed namkeen boxes
- For special occasions: Gold/silver items
Pro Tip: Start your shopping at Station Road for snacks, then head to Sarafa for jewelry, and end at a mall for modern shopping. Most shopkeepers understand Hindi and basic English. Don’t hesitate to ask locals for recommendations – Ratlam people are known for their hospitality!
Happy Shopping in Ratlam!
