Known to many and visited by most Dhakaites — Chandni Chowk, Gawsia, and New Market — the holy trinity of inexpensive and trendy apparels certainly need no new introduction. Yet, the legendary Chandni Chowk stands out the best as it offers an astounding number of cheap deals and fashionable attires with twists of deshi taste.

Although it is not easy to find one's way around the winding narrow alleys, teeming crowd and never-ending shops in Chandni Chowk, this crammed and busy shopping hub undoubtedly remains the most affordable shopping destination in Dhaka city.

Read on to know why Chandni Chowk can be your most affordable shopping destination.

The myriad clothing collection

Chandni Chowk is quite big and it is sure to satiate the cravings of Bangladeshi men and women, who are always looking for modern ethnic wear that is both fashionable and sophisticated. Here, cheap bargains are always available at your disposal, and you can readily get replicas of designer apparel. And the best part about this market is that it is divided into several smaller sections.

Say, you are in the mood of adding splashes of colour, comfort and tradition with the shalwar kameez and dupatta to your wardrobe. Well, no need to travel very far as Chandni Chowk is filled with an overwhelming number of ethnic dresses and party-wear shalwar suits that will steal your breath away. The price is unbelievably low, and you can buy them within the price range of Tk 400 to Tk 15,000. Similar cost also applies to the stylish and versatile saris of Chandni Chowk which are always in vogue.

Nevertheless, always remember that a meticulous and well-articulated bargain will win you any deal in Chandni Chowk!   

Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed

Fabulous fabric

One cannot talk about Chandni Chowk without mentioning the luxurious collection of rich fabric found here. The retail shops in Chandni Chowk specifically specialise in colourful and eye-catching fabrics that are sold at an incredibly low price. Whether that be cotton, crêpe or damask fabric, the shoppers at Chandni Chowk are ready to please their customers with this beautiful collection of textile materials.

What's more? You can even use such fabrics for home décor purposes such as bed sheets, carpets or curtains. Choose the material that your heart desires, but do not forget to compare the price and check the quality before buying.

Mesmerising jewellery

Plated with gold and crafted with dedication, the jewellery collection of Chandni Chowk may not be so high-end, but they are certainly enough to make you look graceful (within a budget). The gold plated antique and silver jewellery are both versatile and low-priced, and the parure includes chockers, necklaces, pendants, bangles, bracelets, and many more.

The best thing about such jewellery is that it can be worn on any occasion. From looking elegant in wedding ceremonies to including them in your day-to-day outings, the gems and jewels of Chandni Chowk can be your trusted companion. You can purchase such jewellery by spending Tk 200-25,000. Visit these glittering jewellery shops of Chandni Chowk once, and you will be amazed at how mesmerising they look!

Mouth-watering street food

There are not many people in Dhaka who have not tasted the spicy, crunchy and delicious fuchka of New Market and Chandni Chowk. However, if you are one of the unfortunate ones who are yet to taste this celebrated street food, do not waste time and grab a bite! Again, after shopping for hours at Chandni Chowk, the sip of lassi and a plate of tehari feels like an elixir sent straight from heaven.

These street food items will not cost you much. You can have a hearty meal by spending the mere amount of Tk 300-400. Don't forget to try the diverse number of achar offered here, and of course, not to mention the famous kulfi and ice gola!

Though the boisterous crowd and energetic vendors of Chandni Chowk can shock first-timers, the grandeur of this major shopping hub should not be missed by anyone. From time immemorial, Chandni Chowk has served people from all walks of life; hence, do not hesitate to treat yourself with the vibrance, old-fashioned charm and affordable apparel from Chandni Chowk.