What
makes Bangkok one of the highest-flying shopping destinations in
Thailand is its multifarious shopping temptations. The place offers
fabulous breaks to shopaholics, as it abounds in contrasting shopping
delights. While the ultra glam outlook of the city drips it with lofty
complexes and malls, the place equally buzzes with the thrill of outdoor
markets and colorful bazaars. One such exciting shopping stopover is the
Phahurat Indian Market in Bangkok, which is also popular as Thailand's
'Little India'.
Actually, Phahurat owes its name to King Chulalongkorn, who named the
place after his daughter Phahurat Manimai, who died at the tender age of
ten. Located on the fringes of the bustling Chinatown, at Phra Nakhon
District, Phahurat Indian Market is an ethnic neighborhood, adjoining
Phahurat Road. Therefore, most of the natives of the area are of South
Asian descent, with the populace comprising mainly of Hindus, Muslims,
and Sikhs. Most of the merchants are Indian Sikhs engaging in the
textile business.
Due to its thriving textile trade, the market is ideal to procure some
good quality fabrics and dress materials. In fact, most of the shops are
known for their huge line of Indian ethnic outfits and different
varieties of Indian souvenirs. Besides, the place also offers an amazing
selection, when it comes to Indian cottons and silks. Aside from
clothing and dress materials, the shops also trade in an incredible
assortment of jewelry, cosmetics, handbags, shoes, and other
knick-knacks, all at unbelievably cheap rates.
Another thing that makes Phahurat popular is its vast array of Indian
cuisines. The main street and the various alleyways spill over some
mouthwatering Indian fares, wrapped in pungent Indian herbs and spices.
You can also test excellent variety of sweets and desserts that bring
out the best from many states across India. Though some Chinese shops
from the nearby Chinatown are penetrating Phahurat, the Indian market
and the numerous South Asian restaurants still dominate trading and
business of the area.