Amidst the beautiful waterfalls and lush greenery , why not go shopping? Because honestly, the kind of peace you’ll find while shopping in Meghalaya even the waterfalls can’t compete. So grab a great Meghalaya trip package and get ready to shop till you drop.
If you’re wondering what to buy, the list is endless. Police Bazaar in Shillong is everyone’s go-to spot for everything from handwoven shawls and bamboo crafts to funky tribal jewelry and aromatic local teas. For something more traditional, head to Sohra or Iewduh Market filled with Khasi and Garo handicrafts, organic spices, and cozy woollens.
So if you love exploring local markets and finding treasures with a story, Meghalaya is your kind of place. Just be warned, once you start shopping here, it’s really hard to stop.
Best Places to Shop in Meghalaya
1. Police Bazaar, Shillong
Wondering where to buy souvenirs in Meghalaya? Police Bazaar is the buzzing heart of Shillong and easily one of the best places to shop in Meghalaya for souvenirs. It’s where modern shopping meets local charm, with branded stores, cozy cafés, and colorful street stalls all sharing space. You can find trendy clothes, handmade jewelry, bamboo crafts, and local tea blends, all within walking distance.
The energy here is infectious, especially in the evenings when the streets light up and music fills the air. Whether you’re a window shopper or a bargain hunter, Police Bazaar offers a fun mix of everything that makes shopping in Meghalaya unforgettable.
2. Lewduh (Bara Bazaar), Shillong
Step into Iewduh, also known as Bara Bazaar, and you step into the heart of Khasi culture. This is one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in the Northeast, where the real soul of traditional shopping in Meghalaya comes alive. From fresh produce and herbs to tribal textiles, bamboo baskets, and handmade jewelry, everything here is authentically local.
The market is run mostly by Khasi women vendors, making it both vibrant and empowering. It’s chaotic in the best way possible, full of chatter, colors, and smells that give you a raw and real taste of Meghalaya’s daily life.
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Located along Paikan, Tura Dalu Road in Mendal, Gokolgre Daily Market is a lively local hub that perfectly reflects the everyday rhythm of Meghalaya. This daily market is known for its fresh local produce, from juicy fruits and crisp vegetables to regional staples like millet and other agricultural goods grown in the fertile Garo Hills. What makes Gokolgre special is its thoughtful setup: wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking, clean restrooms, and the convenience of NFC mobile payments for easy transactions.
It’s a comfortable yet authentic spot where locals and visitors can experience true community life while shopping for Meghalaya’s freshest produce, making it one of the most loved Meghalaya shopping places.
4. Sohra Market (Cherrapunji)
Tucked amid misty hills and waterfalls, Sohra Market in Cherrapunji is one of the best places to shop in Meghalaya for travelers who love authentic local finds. The market bursts with color, stalls selling handwoven Khasi fabrics, bamboo baskets, spices, and fresh produce.
What makes it special is the blend of nature and culture; you can shop with clouds floating around you! Every item here feels handmade with heart, reflecting the simple yet artistic life of the locals. If you want to experience shopping in Meghalaya that’s peaceful, scenic, and soulful, Sohra Market is your perfect stop.
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5. Tura Bazaar (Garo Hills)
Located in the heart of the Garo Hills, Tura Bazaar stands out as one of the best markets for sho-+pping in Meghalaya. It’s where you’ll find the finest Garo handicrafts, traditional woven fabrics, wooden art, and handmade ornaments. The vibe here is different from Shillong — quieter, greener, and deeply rooted in tribal life.
This market gives you a chance to connect with local artisans and pick souvenirs that truly represent the Garo culture. For anyone exploring the western side of the state, Tura Bazaar offers a raw, authentic experience that’s both cultural and charming.
If you want to witness local life up close, Hat Thammayi is one of the best places to shop in Meghalaya. It’s a weekly village market where locals gather to sell everything, from fresh fruits and vegetables to traditional crafts and handmade tools. The beauty of Hat Thammayi lies in its simplicity; it’s less commercial and more community-driven.
You can chat with vendors, try local snacks, and discover small handmade treasures you won’t find anywhere else. Visiting this market feels like stepping into the heart of Meghalaya’s rural culture, warm, welcoming, and wonderfully authentic.
If you’re craving a modern touch to balance all that local market charm, OB Shopping Mall in Shillong is your go-to spot. Sleek, convenient, and centrally located, it offers a refreshing contrast to the bustling bazaars. From branded clothing and accessories to stylish cafés and lifestyle stores, it’s a great place to unwind after exploring the city.
What makes it special is how it blends comfort with culture, you can shop for trendy outfits one moment and sip local tea the next. For travelers who enjoy a mix of tradition and modernity, this mall adds a new flavor to shopping in Meghalaya.
If you’re wondering what is famous in Meghalaya for shopping? The answer is, a bit of everything! From handwoven shawls to bamboo crafts and organic teas, Meghalaya is packed with treasures that reflect its culture and craftsmanship. Whether you’re a souvenir collector or just someone who loves meaningful finds, here are some of the best things to buy in Meghalaya that you simply shouldn’t miss.
- Handwoven Shawls and Stoles
You can’t leave Meghalaya without picking up one of its beautiful handwoven shawls. The Khasi and Garo women are known for their intricate weaving patterns and use of natural dyes. These shawls aren’t just warm, they’re wearable art! You’ll find them in vibrant colors and traditional motifs across markets like Police Bazaar and Iewduh.
- Bamboo and Cane Handicrafts
Bamboo and cane crafts are among the best things to buy in Meghalaya, and you’ll see why once you spot the creativity in each piece. From baskets and trays to home décor items and furniture, everything is eco-friendly and made with local materials. These make perfect Meghalaya souvenirs, lightweight, sustainable, and full of local charm.
If you love unique accessories, Meghalaya’s tribal jewelry will steal your heart. Crafted using beads, metal, and stones, these pieces are bold and full of character. You can find traditional Khasi-style necklaces, earrings, and bangles at local bazaars, perfect for adding a boho touch to your look!
- Organic Spices and Local Teas
Take a piece of Meghalaya’s fresh flavors home with you! The local markets sell a wide range of organic spices like black pepper, turmeric, and ginger, all locally grown and packed with aroma. And if you’re a tea lover, don’t skip the locally grown teas from nearby plantations; they make thoughtful gifts too.
- Traditional Khasi and Garo Textiles
Each tribe in Meghalaya has its own signature style of weaving. The traditional Jainsem (Khasi attire) and Dakmanda (Garo wrap) are beautifully made, often using natural fibers. You can buy fabric lengths or ready-made pieces that reflect the authentic craftsmanship of the region.
- Handmade Baskets and Local Décor
Markets like Sohra and Tura are filled with handmade baskets, mats, and home décor items. These are not only useful but also beautifully designed with traditional patterns. Perfect if you want to add a little Meghalaya touch to your home!
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Shopping in Meghalaya is not just about what you buy, it’s about how you experience it. The cheerful chaos of the local bazaars, the warm smiles of Khasi and Garo shopkeepers, and the aroma of fresh teas and spices all come together to make it unforgettable.
But before you dive into the vibrant world of local markets, here are some simple yet super helpful tips to make your shopping experience in Meghalaya smoother and more fun!
1. Carry Cash, Not Just Cards
While some big stores and malls accept digital payments, most local vendors in the Meghalaya market still prefer cash. ATMs are available in Shillong and other main towns, but it’s always smart to keep some smaller notes handy for street stalls and rural markets.
2. Shop Early or Late
If you want to skip the crowd and enjoy a relaxed shopping spree, head out either in the morning or late afternoon. Early hours are great for fresh produce and handicrafts, while evenings are perfect to soak up the market buzz, especially at Police Bazaar and Iewduh.
3. Bargain, But Politely
Bargaining is totally normal in local markets, just do it with a smile! Vendors appreciate friendly negotiations, but remember that many of them are artisans selling handmade products that take time and effort. Respect their craft and find a fair deal that makes both sides happy.
4. Support Local Artisans
When you’re shopping in Meghalaya, choose locally made items over imported ones. From handwoven shawls to bamboo crafts, your purchase helps sustain local families and preserve traditional skills that have been passed down for generations.
5. Check for Authenticity
In popular areas like Police Bazaar, you’ll find a mix of genuine handicrafts and factory-made souvenirs. Don’t hesitate to ask about the origin of the product. Government emporiums or certified handicraft shops are also great places to buy authentic goods.
6. Explore Different Markets
Each market in Meghalaya has its own vibe, Iewduh for traditional shopping, Laitumkhrah for trendy picks, and Sohra for earthy, handmade finds. Don’t stick to just one place; wandering around gives you the best mix of styles, prices, and experiences.
7. Respect Local Customs
When visiting traditional markets, especially in smaller towns or villages, dress modestly and be respectful while taking photos. Some vendors might not be comfortable being photographed, so always ask first.
At the end of the day, shopping in Meghalaya isn’t just about filling your bags, it’s about filling your heart with little pieces of its culture. Every market visit feels like a story, every handcrafted item a memory. Whether you’re wandering through the lively Police Bazaar or browsing the hidden gems tucked away in village stalls, the joy of exploring different Meghalaya shopping places is truly unmatched.
So take your time, chat with the locals, and let yourself get lost in the colors, crafts, and charm of this beautiful hill state. Because shopping in Meghalaya isn’t just an activity, it’s a soulful experience you’ll carry home long after the trip ends.
