When the sun sets, and the cities light up, India reveals a different charm altogether—one that thrives in its bustling night markets. From street food to local handicrafts and live music under the stars, these after-dark bazaars offer a sensory overload that captures the country’s vibrant spirit. Whether you’re a culture buff, a shopping enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys soaking up the pulse of a place after hours, here are the top five night markets in India you must explore.
This permanent open-air craft bazaar, managed by Delhi Tourism, is designed like a traditional rural haat with thatched roof cottages and handloom stalls. The market lights up as evening falls, and the atmosphere becomes more relaxed and romantic.
Artisans from different states display their wares on rotation, so you might find Kashmiri shawls one week and Madhubani paintings the next. Live performances, food stalls offering regional delicacies, and fairy-lit walkways make it one of the capital’s most enjoyable night-time escapes.
Opening Hours: The market opens daily from 11 am to 8 pm. Tickets, ranging from INR 20-INR 100, are available at the entry gates.
The Pink City is famous for its royal palaces and colourful bazaars, but come evening, Johari Bazaar near the iconic Hawa Mahal transforms into a glittering labyrinth of gems, mirror-work fabrics, and ethnic finery. Traditionally a daytime market, Johari Bazaar sees an evening resurgence during festivals and wedding season when it stays open late to cater to shoppers looking for bridal jewellery, bangles, and lehengas.
Lit by hanging lanterns and buzzing with bargaining voices, it’s a sensory treat that reflects the city’s regal legacy. It’s also the perfect place to sample traditional sweets and kachoris while you shop.
Opening Hours: Opens daily from 10 am to 11 pm
Located in the upscale neighbourhood of Hitech City, the Shilparamam Night Bazaar blends the rustic charm of a village fair with the convenience of modern infrastructure. Open all week until late in the evening, this market is part of a larger arts and crafts complex, designed to promote local artisans and their work.
The night bazaar comes alive after sundown with colourful stalls selling handlooms, pottery, woodwork, and traditional toys. Food courts serve authentic Hyderabadi cuisine, and there are regular folk music and dance performances. It’s a family-friendly space perfect for an immersive cultural experience.
Opening Hours: Opens daily from 10:30 am to 8 pm
Set along the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra, the Pan Bazaar market in Guwahati is an underrated gem. While still developing compared to other metro markets, its scenic riverside setting, cultural energy, and growing range of stalls make it a must-visit. On weekends and special occasions, local vendors line the riverfront with stalls selling tribal handicrafts, bamboo products, pickles, handwoven scarves, and more.
The breeze from the river, live folk music, and regional street food—from momos to pork curry—make for a lively evening. It’s a great place to experience Assam’s rich heritage in a contemporary setting.
Opening hours: Opens daily, generally between 10 am and 9 pm; however, some shops here might close earlier, by 7 or 7:30 pm.
A jewel in the crown of Indore’s culinary scene, Sarafa Bazaar is a must-visit for food lovers. What makes it unique is its transformation—from a bustling jewellery market by day to a legendary street food haven by night. As the sun sets, shuttered jewellery shops give way to sizzling food carts, neon-lit stalls, and mouthwatering aromas.
Open from around 8 pm until late into the night; this night market serves everything from local favourites like poha-jalebi, bhutte ka kees, and garadu to indulgent treats like malpua, rabri, and jaleba.
Opening hours: The jewellery market opens around 11 am and continues till 8 pm, followed by the food market opening, which operates till 2 am midnight.
