Anand is not just a cultural and spiritual destination, but also a fantastic place for shopping. Whether you are looking for traditional Gujarati handicrafts, vibrant textiles, or local food products, Anand has a lot to offer. Here’s a detailed guide to the top 5 shopping destinations in Anand that every new tourist and city visitor must explore:
1. Anand Market (Main Market)
- Overview: Anand Market, also known as the Main Market, is the heart of the city and a go-to place for both locals and tourists to shop for a variety of goods. The market is bustling with activity and offers a mix of traditional and modern shopping options.
- What to Buy:
- Clothing: Traditional Gujarati attire, including Bandhnis, Chaniya Cholis, Kediyu, and Sarees.
- Spices and Dry Fruits: You’ll find aromatic spices such as cardamom, cloves, and cumin at affordable rates. You can also buy a variety of dry fruits like cashews and raisins.
- Home Decor: Traditional wall hangings, decorative items, pottery, and clay sculptures.
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late evenings to avoid the rush.
- Secret Tip: Bargaining is common, so don’t hesitate to negotiate for better prices, especially in the textile and handicraft stalls.
2. Sardar Patel Market
- Overview: Sardar Patel Market is one of the most famous shopping areas in Anand, named after the great leader, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. It’s a compact, vibrant market that offers everything from clothing to electronics.
- What to Buy:
- Electronics: Mobile phones, accessories, and small electronics like speakers, earphones, etc.
- Gifts & Souvenirs: Traditional brass items, keychains, wooden figurines, and other local souvenirs.
- Clothing: Trendy casuals, jeans, t-shirts, and ethnic wear for both men and women.
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays are ideal if you prefer a more relaxed shopping experience. Weekends can get crowded.
- Secret Tip: There are some great deals on electronic items, but make sure to check the warranty and product condition before purchasing.
3. Anand Dairy Products (Amul Products)
- Overview: Anand is known for being the home of Amul, one of India’s largest dairy brands. The Amul Dairy Products shop in Anand is a must-visit for all dairy lovers.
- What to Buy:
- Amul Butter: Known for its rich and creamy taste, it’s a favorite among both locals and visitors.
- Cheese & Chocolates: Amul offers a wide range of cheese, chocolates, and milk-based products that are fresh and delicious.
- Ice Creams: Don’t miss out on Amul’s wide range of ice creams, especially the classic chocolate and vanilla flavors.
- Ghee & Curd: Amul’s ghee (clarified butter) and curd are some of the best-selling items.
- Best Time to Visit: Visit during the daytime to see the variety of fresh products available.
- Secret Tip: If you’re purchasing Amul products in bulk, check for discounts or offers at the store.
4. Vallabh Vidyanagar Market
- Overview: Located near Vallabh Vidyanagar, this market caters to the student and academic community and is a perfect stop for shoppers looking for variety and affordability.
- What to Buy:
- Books and Stationery: Find a wide range of textbooks, reference books, and stationery supplies.
- Jewelry and Accessories: Beautifully crafted silver jewelry, traditional bangles, and accessories.
- Street Food: Try the local chat items and snacks like dabeli, khaman, and pav bhaji.
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoons or evenings are ideal for shopping and food tasting.
- Secret Tip: If you’re a fan of street food, this market offers some of the best Gujarati snacks at reasonable prices.
5. Shree Ram Kathiyawadi Shopping Center
- Overview: If you’re looking for authentic Kathiyawadi (Gujarat’s regional cuisine) products, Shree Ram Kathiyawadi is your destination. Apart from food, this place offers a range of traditional clothing and local handicrafts.
- What to Buy:
- Kathiyawadi Thali Sets: Buy ready-made Kathiyawadi thali sets, which include items like roti, vegetables, dhal, and sweets.
- Clothing: Traditional Kathiyawadi attire, embroidered scarves, and sarees.
- Sweets: Local farsan, ghari, and methi na thepla are must-try items.
- Best Time to Visit: Visit during the lunch or dinner hours for the best Kathiyawadi thali experience.
- Secret Tip: Make sure to buy the methi na thepla and farsan as they make excellent souvenirs to take home.
Shopping Guide Summary Table
| Shopping Destination | What to Buy | Best Time to Visit | Secret Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anand Market (Main Market) | Traditional Gujarati attire, spices, dry fruits, home decor | Early morning or late evening | Bargain for better prices, especially for textiles and handicrafts. |
| Sardar Patel Market | Electronics, gifts & souvenirs, casual and ethnic clothing | Weekdays for a relaxed experience | Check electronics carefully, verify warranty before purchase. |
| Amul Dairy Products (Amul Shop) | Amul Butter, cheese, chocolates, ice creams, ghee, curd | Daytime | Check for bulk discounts when purchasing Amul products. |
| Vallabh Vidyanagar Market | Books, stationery, jewelry, accessories, street food | Late afternoon or evening | The best place for affordable Gujarati snacks and street food. |
| Shree Ram Kathiyawadi Shopping Center | Kathiyawadi thali sets, traditional clothing, Kathiyawadi sweets and farsan | Lunchtime or dinner time | Don’t miss out on Kathiyawadi snacks to take home. |
Conclusion
Anand offers a variety of shopping experiences that will appeal to both tourists and locals. Whether you’re hunting for traditional Gujarati clothing, delicious Amul products, or unique souvenirs, Anand’s markets have something for everyone. Enjoy shopping in this culturally rich city and bring back memorable keepsakes and local delicacies.