Aminabad Market is one of Lucknow’s oldest and most popular shopping districts. It is a renowned marketplace where you can buy a variety of goods such as clothing, jewelry, cosmetics, shoes, and even books.
It is a must-visit for any tourist exploring Lucknow, and a great place to experience the city’s vibrant culture and traditions. In this article, we are going to explore more details about the market.
Let’s start the journey…
Entry fee and timings:
- Free entry! Aminabad welcomes you with open arms (and shops).
- Open daily (except Thursdays) from 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM.
- Peak hours: 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
- Some shops may have slightly different timings.
How to reach?
- Car: Ample parking is available (pay and park) near the market.
- Auto rickshaw: Easily available from any part of Lucknow.
- Public Transport: Buses and rickshaws ply regularly to Aminabad.
- Metro: The nearest station is Chowk, a 15-minute walk from the market.
Why it is famous?
- Unbeatable prices: Known for its affordability, with opportunities to bargain for the best deals.
- Diverse shopping: Textiles (Chikankari, Zardozi, Banarasi sarees), jewelry (silver, kundan), spices, books, furniture, and more.
- Street food paradise: Mouthwatering local delicacies like kebabs, biryani, Awadhi curries, and kulfi.
- Lively atmosphere: Bustling lanes, vibrant colors, and friendly shopkeepers create a unique experience.
- Heritage walk: Traces of the Nawabi era in architecture and shop names.
Best time to visit Aminabad Market:
- Early mornings: Avoid the crowd and enjoy a calmer shopping experience.
- Weekdays: Weekends can get very crowded, especially evenings.
- Festival season: Witness the market decked up in festive decorations and buzzing with energy.
Things to do at the Market:
- Shop till you drop: From exquisite Chikankari to fragrant spices, find hidden treasures in every lane.
- Indulge in street food: Savor Awadhi flavors like kebabs, Tunday kebabs, and melt-in-your-mouth kulfi.
- People-watch: Observe the vibrant chaos, friendly banter, and unique characters that bring the market to life.
- Bargain like a pro: Test your haggling skills and score amazing deals on everything from spices to sarees.
- Explore hidden gems: Discover tucked-away shops selling antiques, books, and local handicrafts.
- Below are the popular items you can buy from the market
Below are the popular items you can buy from the market:
| Item | Shops to Look For |
|---|---|
| Chikankari | Prakash Deepam, Lucknow Chikan Centre |
| Zardozi | Haji Mohammad Sharif & Sons, Begum Jan’s |
| Banarasi sarees | Babubhai Silk House, R.S. Zariwala |
| Jewelry | Aminabad Silver Market, Jani Jhanda Market |
| Spices | Chowk ki Shan, Munshi Nawab Khan & Sons |
| Books | Ram Advani Booksellers, Universal Book Shop |
| Local Food | Rahim ki Nihari, Dastarkhan, Tunday Kababi |
History:
- Established in the 18th century during the reign of Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula.
- Originally named “Patther Wali Gali” due to its stone-paved streets.
- Rechristened “Aminabad” in honor of Muhammad Amin Shah, a courtier of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah.
Location:
- Situated in the heart of Lucknow, near Chowk and Hazratganj areas.
- Easily accessible from all parts of the city.
Facts:
- Limited ATMs: Carry cash for most transactions.
- Bargaining expected: Don’t be afraid to haggle for the best price.
- Photography allowed: Capture the colorful chaos of the market.
- Closed on Thursdays: Plan your visit accordingly.
- No dress code: Wear comfortable shoes and clothes for navigating the bustling lanes.
Bonus Tips:
- Explore lanes like Moti Bazar for antiques and Chowk ki Shan for spices.
- Visit Akbari Gate, a historical monument near the market.
- Sample sweet delights from Awadh ki Shaan or Sharma Sweet House.
