Tourism
of Goa
Shopping
in Goa
Traditional
MarketsMost
Goan towns have a Municipal Market where you can get practically everything
you need in one place to stock up on your provisions. This is the
traditional market place for the average Goan for his daily shopping needs.
These markets are usually the most interesting place to browse
around for shopping. However over the years, some markets have gained fame
around the world for their unique variety and ambience.
Friday
Mapusa Market
The small town of Mapusa lies in northern Goa and is
one of the main market centres in the state, serving both inland farmers and
the villagers of the coast.
The market is at its bustling best
every Friday morning when it draws large crowds of Goans as well tourists.
Goans come from all over the state to do their weekly shopping here.
Although
it's not much different from any other regional market, it's an excellent
example of a typical busy Goan bazar. The market opens early morning around
8 am and the business is in full swing throughout the day until the closure
at around 6 pm in the evening.
There are vendors selling
everything from fresh fruit, vegetables to fish, earthen cooking pots to the
latest plastic utensils.
Banastarim Bazar
Banastarim
is a small village which lies in Ponda Taluka further along the road down
the highway NH4A from the famous Old Goa Church complex. There is a weekly
bazar held here on Fridays, which is quite similar to the Mapusa market.
The main difference between the two markets is that due to its
location, this is not yet as popular with the tourists. As such the market
still retains its old world charm and Goan ambience without the
commercialisation aimed at tourists. Goods are thus available at extremely
cheap prices.
Anjuna Market
Originally started by
foreigners who wanted to sell off their second-hand items such as cameras,
watches and even clothes, the Anjuna market today has quite a different
appearance.
Held every Wednesday, near the famous Anjuna beach, it
is a major attraction for people from Goa as well as the tourists.
Today
it is more populated by stalls operated by Tibetan and Kashmiri traders and
colourful Lamani tribal women rather than foreigners. The stalls usually
sell handicrafts from around India.
Bargaining is expected by most
vendors, so be sure to haggle around with the starting price until you are
sure you are getting your money's worth.
About
Goa