Uttar Pradesh shopping

Some of the pieces on display at this renowned marble shop are simply stunning (ask to see the 26 masterpieces). While it's more expensive than some shops, you definitely get what you pay for: high-quality marble...

If the deluge of traveller enthusiasm is anything to go by, this is one of the most trustworthy, nonpushy shops in India. Indeed it is one of the best places you'll find for silks (scarves/saris from ₹500/4000)...

For the best handicrafts in town head for this collection of fabrics and handmade designer clothes made by NGOs from across India, alongside modern crafts created by Lucknow designers. Handwoven scarves, jute...

Owner Harish is scrupulously honest in explaining the differing qualities of the silk scarves, handmade Ladakhi pashmina shawls and bedspreads. Prices are fixed, credit cards are accepted and shipping can be...

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...

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...

The best bookshop in Varanasi, with a particularly good selection of titles on Varanasi and the Mughals.

Great selection of novels and books on Agra and the Mughals at this friendly, 60-year-old establishment.

Skirts the northern edge of Agra’s Jama Masjid and is particularly good for silks and saris.

Stocks simple, good-quality men’s Indian clothing made from the homespun khadi fabric famously recommended by Mahatma Gandhi. There's no English sign – on Mahatma Gandhi (MG) Rd, look for the khadi logo of hands...

A family business since 1850, the sweet-scented Sugandhco sells attar (pure essence oil extracted from flowers by a traditional method) in the form of women’s perfume, men’s cologne, household fragrances and...

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.

This small NGO shop attached to Vegan & Raw Restaurant sells Italian-designed, locally made clothing, natural cosmetics, baked cookies and organic foods.