These 5 city markets offer perfect Rakhi gifts for siblings overseas

As Raksha Bandhan approaches, all sibling rivalry is replaced by the excitement of gifts. For some, though, siblings are a lot farther than down the hall. Gifting during Raksha Bandhan can be especially challenging when the gift needs to travel hundreds of miles to reach our loved ones. So, for siblings bridging the distance this year, here are five beautiful reminders of Delhi to remind loved ones of home while they’re overseas.

Dariba Kalan

The clinking of bangles is associated with the festive season in most households. To shop for affordable silver bangles and other jewellery, Dariba Kalan is your go-to place. It is one of the oldest markets in Delhi for silver and gold jewellery. For those who are enthusiastic about kitchenware, the market also offers a large variety of metalware, crockery and silverware.

Location: Chandni Chowk, Delhi-6
Nearest Metro Station: Chandni Chowk (Yellow Line)
Timings: 11am–7pm (closed on Sundays)

Khari Baoli

Nothing reminds a person of home more than the spices they grew up with. In Delhi, Khari Baoli is the most prominent market to buy all kinds of spices and custom-ground chai masala. Vendors in the market seal the packets to make sure they remain airtight and fit for long-distance travel, and even provide foil-sealed packaging.

Location: Khari Baoli Road, adjacent to Fatehpuri Masjid, near Chandni Chowk
Nearest Metro: Chandni Chowk Station (Yellow Line)
Timings: 10am–8pm (closed on Sundays)

Mahila Haat

Mahila Haat is known for its weekly book market, set up on Sundays, and is already a gathering place for bibliophiles. However, something fewer people know about is its collection of beautiful hardbound, coloured-paper diaries. With plenty of stalls selling unique stationery and collectibles, most things you buy there are easy to pack and parcel.

Location: Darya Ganj
Nearest Metro: Delhi Gate (Violet Line)
Timings: 8am–6pm (only open on Sundays)

CR Park market

For lovers of traditional and ethnic wear, the markets in Chittaranjan Park are full of shops owned by Bengali families, selling both beautiful sarees and blouses. These shop owners will often greet you in Bengali and treat you like family as they chat about what clothes you’re looking for. Not only this, but one can also end their Rakhi shopping on a sweet note at the sweet markets of CR Park.

Location: Chittaranjan Park
Nearest Metro: Greater Kailash (Magenta Line)
Timings: 9am–10pm (individual shop timings may vary)

Inderlok street market

While lesser known than other ethnic-wear-oriented markets, Inderlok’s Thursday street market is famous for its affordable semi-stitched and festive clothing. With a variety of clothes for men, women and children, it is a great spot to shop for all your Rakhi outfit needs. Most vendors operate at wholesale prices and stock both clothes and accessories.

Location: Inderlok
Nearest Metro: Inderlok (Green and Red lines)
Timings: 8am–4pm on Thursdays