Top Choice Arts & Crafts in Agra
Subhash Emporium
Some of the pieces on display at this renowned marble shop are simply stunning (ask to see the 26 masterpieces). While more expensive than some shops, you definitely get what you pay for: high-quality marble from Ra…
Top Choice Fashion & Accessories in Varanasi
Baba Blacksheep
If the deluge of traveller enthusiasm is anything to go by, this is one of the most trustworthy, non-pushy shops in India. Indeed it is one of the best places you'll find for silks (scarves/saris from ₹500/4000) and…
Fashion & Accessories in Varanasi
Paraslakshmi Exports
Owner Harish is scrupulously honest in explaining the differing qualities of the silk scarves, hand-made Ladakhi pashmina shawls and bed spreads. Prices are fixed, credit cards are accepted and shipping can be arran…
Arts & Crafts in Lucknow
Sanatkada
For the best handicrafts in town head for this collection of fabrics and hand-made designer clothes made by NGOs from across India, alongside modern crafts created by Lucknow designers. Handwoven scarves, jute bags …
Fashion & Accessories in Varanasi
Mehrotra Silk Factory
Tucked away down a tiny alleyway near the main train station, this pocket-sized, fixed-priced shop is a fun place to buy silk scarves (from ₹400), saris (from ₹3000) and bedspread sets (from ₹9000). The Lal Ghat loc…
Fashion & Accessories in Varanasi
Mehrotra Silk Factory
In a labyrinth of alleys behind Lal Ghat, this fixed-price shop, its floor cushioned for seating, offers fine silks for fair prices. Products are as small as a scarf or as big as a bedcover. There's another branch n…
Books in Agra
Modern Book Depot
Great selection of novels and books on Agra and the Mughals at this friendly, 60-year-old establishment.
Books in Varanasi
Harmony Book Shop
The best bookshop in Varanasi, with a particularly good selection of titles on Varanasi and the Mughals.
Market in Agra
Subhash Bazaar
Skirts the northern edge of Agra’s Jama Masjid and is particularly good for silks and saris.
Clothing in Varanasi
Learn for Life Shop
This small shop sells Italian-designed, locally made clothing, natural cosmetics and cookies from nearby Brown Bread Bakery. A branch is attached to Vegan & Raw restaurant.