Chennai, India

Best places to shop in Chennai

5 markets, malls and shopping districts in Chennai — what to buy, when to go, and the tourist traps to avoid at each one.

Last updated 2026-08-09

1. T. Nagar: Ranganathan Street and Pondy Bazaar

One of the highest-turnover retail districts in India — silk saris, gold, clothing and household goods, at Nalli, Pothys and the vast Saravana Stores.

Where: Bazaar
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Daily 10:00–21:00; avoid festival weekends
Cost: Budget–Mid
Tip: Nalli and Kumaran are the long-established silk houses. Kanchipuram silk is sold by weight of the zari as well as the cloth — ask for the breakdown.

2. Kanchipuram silk weaving centres

The temple town two hours away where the silk saris are woven — cooperative societies sell direct from the looms.

Where: Street Shopping
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Daily 09:00–18:00
Cost: Mid–Luxury

Watch outPowerloom saris from elsewhere are sold in Kanchipuram as handloom Kanchipuram silk. Genuine pieces carry a Silk Mark and a handloom mark, and the zari is tested — ask to see both.

3. Poompuhar and Central Cottage Industries

The Tamil Nadu state emporia — bronze icons, Tanjore painting, palm-leaf work and temple jewellery at fixed prices.

Where: Market
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Monday to Saturday 10:00–20:00
Cost: Mid-range

4. Express Avenue and Phoenix Marketcity

The city's main modern malls — international and Indian brands, cinemas and food courts.

Where: Mall
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Daily 10:00–22:00
Cost: Mid-range

5. Mylapore and Kapaleeshwarar temple bazaar

The traditional market around the temple tank — flowers, brass lamps, silver, devotional items and filter coffee.

Where: Bazaar
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Daily 06:00–21:00
Cost: Budget