Empress Market

Karachi

DESTINATIONS pakistan karachi Shopping Empress Market

Empress Market

The Empress market's story dates back to the times of the British Raj, when it was first inaugurated and named after the then-empress Queen Victoria. It remains in operation today, and is a busy marketplace selling all manner of produce, including that which isn't in stock at markets elsewhere in the city.

Useful Information

Address: Saddar Bazar Quarters, Karachi
Opening House: Daily 7am–11pm

Shopping

Saddar, the old area of the city, is home to a number of markets. Zainab Market and Bhori Bazaar are full of stalls selling handcrafted items such as woodwork, clothes and leather garments. For jewellery, head to Sarafa Bazaar, which is a gold and silver market, while the Empress Market is great for spices and worth a trip for the atmosphere alone. Aside from the souks, Zaibunnisa Street is lined with fashionable boutiques and jewellers, while Tariq Road in the neighbouring PECHS district offers much of the same. Need a new carpet for the living room? Then head down to Abdullah Haroon Road, where you can pick up quality new or antique carpets from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran. If the thought of haggling leaves you in a cold sweat, head to the Clifton and DHA areas, where you will find a number of malls offering a range of brand-name outlets in air-conditioned surroundings.