The oldest markets in India that are still thriving!

If you want to trace India's rich history, one of the best ways to do so is by exploring the country’s oldest markets. Although many of us prefer online shopping, the very experience of going to the markets to shop is incomparable.

So, if you are also keen to shop and explore at the same time, here is a list of oldest markets in India that are still thriving and will offer you an experience that you will never forget.

Popularly known as the Mother's Market, it is a one-of-a-kind market that is managed only by women. If reports are to go by, nearly 5000 female traders set up their shops here, and sell a wide range of products. As per the reports, the market was established in the 16th-century, and only married women run the stalls here. It’s definitely a spot to visit.

Established in the 17th century, this market was established by Mughal Emperor Jahangir and his daughter, Jahanara. It is one of the best and oldest markets in India that sells almost anything and everything, including perfumes, jewellery, electronic goods, traditional clothes, spices, leather goods, antiques, souvenirs and more. Also, the market is home to Khari Baoli, which is Asia's biggest wholesale spice market.

Chowringhee was one of Kolkata's first roads, and remains one of the most iconic roads of the city. While there are elegant buildings gracing this road, the highlight here is the market that is set in its quaint neighbourhood and is known by the same name. The market is not only one of the most popular neighbourhoods in Kolkata, but is also one of the best shopping destinations for both locals and tourists.

Easily listed as one of the best markets in the country, Johari Bazaar of Jaipur is located close to the Hawa Mahal, and is a unique one for sure. Famed for selling some of the diverse jewellery collections, including semi-precious and precious gemstones, it is where you are sure to have a great time here. It is also one of the best places to buy traditional jewellery like Meenakari, Kundan, and Polki. One can even find intricate jewellery items that have been crafted by craftsmen with skills that they have learned from their forefathers and fathers.

This market is full of shops that sell antique crockery, brass and bronze sculptures, wooden furniture, jewels, and many other such things that are unique to this place, and can rarely be found anywhere else. Reports suggest that since most of the shopkeepers are from the line of Jews, who lived here long ago, the market is not only one of the oldest in the country but is also a place where you will find items of antiquity in this market.

Delhi's Meena Bazaar is one of the ancient markets in India that boasts of a significant image from a historical point of view. Its roots can be traced back to the 17th Century, i.e., during the Mughal era. This market was the country’s first covered market, and was built by Mughal Emperor Shah. Located towards Jama Masjid's eastern end, visit this market to shop some exclusive items.

Kannauj is popularly known as the Perfume City, so this should not come as a surprise to you. As such, the Attar Bazaar is one of the best places for those who love to collect and are fond of perfumes.

The market is home to some old perfume houses, which are well-known for producing perfumes using some age-old traditional techniques, which is also one of the reasons why traders from across the world come and shop for products from this place.

This ancient market is home to around 7000 shops, wherein most of the shops are more than 200 years old. This market is apt for shopping for gold, and one can get the best of designs too. If records are to go by, this market is easily one of the biggest and oldest gold markets in India. You will also get all kinds of jewels and gems here. The highlight of this market is its old-world charm, and features a rustic vibe that you will hardly find anywhere else.