If you are in New Delhi, you’ll probably enjoy a good shopping day. However, knowing the best places to shop can save you a few rupees. I’m a shopping fanatic, and if I can do it at a good price, that’s even better.
When I first came here, I dreamed about India and its typical goods, because Indian clothes and designs are beautiful. But I didn’t know where to find the best deals or places to shop. As a foreigner, it’s easy to get lost in the middle of negotiations. Locals often try to take advantage of this and may charge you more than the actual price, so you have to learn to bargain.
This is quite funny because anyone who knows me knows that I’m not good at this game, but when I realized how much money I could save, and with my strong desire to spend my birthday in Thailand, I decided to save every rupee.
I remember the day when I was new here in the jungle of Delhi and wanted to buy a blanket full of mandalas and colors. That day, I was taking a walk in the crowded Old Delhi and came across a vintage store.
The store was full of beautiful things, and of course, there was my blanket. I asked the price, and it was 800 rupees—a bit expensive, but I was so in love with it that I didn’t hesitate to give my card to the man in the store.
One month later, I found myself walking in Main Bazar, and there it was—the same blanket. I asked the price, and it was 600 rupees less. At that moment, the only thing I could think was: Holy cow! What a waste of money. The blanket was 200 rupees, which I thought was very cheap. Then I found a lot of other beautiful stuff at good prices.
I’m sure there are even more markets and bazaars with good prices, perhaps even better than Main Bazar because it’s still a very touristy place. My suggestion is always to try to bargain, and if you’re shy like me, you have to at least try to find a good price in other ways. I’m not an expert, but here are some tips I’ve learned so far about bargaining in India.
How to Bargain in India and Not Lose the Deal:
Always act like you don’t care: If you show too much interest in an item, the seller will take advantage of the situation and may overcharge you. So, always act as if you don’t really like the item. The seller might follow you and start offering better prices.
Offer a very low price: Sellers may consider this an offensive gesture, but sometimes you have to do it to start the negotiation. They’ll likely complain about the price you suggest, but this opens up the opportunity to negotiate.
Keep a strong position: If you don’t want to pay the asking price, offer your own, starting lower. Try to be fair, but firm from the beginning, so the seller knows you’re not easily played.
Check the prices in other stores first: This is a must-know for bargaining. If you know the prices of the same item in different stores, you can compare and use that information to get a good deal.
Good luck and self-confidence: Confidence is key here. A good smile with a strong voice will help you find good deals. Don’t forget to be friendly. People tend to be friendlier when you make them feel comfortable. Making jokes or asking questions is always welcome.
