For shoppers with Indian visa, India is fast becoming a shopping haven, yielding great bargains if you know what to look for and where. The secret to a satisfying shopping expedition is to go where the locals go, whether it is on the world-class malls, the ubiquitous roadside stalls or the so-called bargain shops. 

There are lots of things to see and buy in India, normally near the public market in the small urban or rural villages, and in the sprawling malls all over large urban areas. Majority of Indian visa holders focus on handicrafts and native products. In fact, some smart Indian visa tourists get designer brand products at very low costs. Take note, however, that shopping in India is a little bit different. The shopping culture follows that of most other Asian countries where bargaining is not just normal but is even expected.

Here are some of the best tips that can help Indian visa bearers get the best products for the best price.

• Once you see an item which you think is a must have, never give in to the temptation. Wait until you are halfway through the mall or stalls before grabbing that item of obsession. Indian visa holders can find better products at even lower prices. You can also ask for bargain at every stall and compare their prices.


• If you are asked to name your price, always start the bid at the lowest possible price. Walking at malls with fixed price items helps in knowing the current price, this way you can offer bids at lower prices. Smart India visa holders should have an eye of the price.


• In most roadside stalls, you can ask for discounts, half the original price, when you purchase several items at one time. It’s just like purchasing wholesale but this time of several different items.


• Do not reveal how much interested you are at an item. It pays to be a little indifferent in Indian shopping culture.


• Once the shop keeper lowers down the price, try to bargain for a little more. Often than not, they can give discounts of up to fifty percent depending on how persistent or effective you make bargains.


• On the other hand, if the shop keeper does not give in to your bargain threaten him or her that you will walk away. Better yet, simply walk out and find for another shop. There are lots of other stalls and shops willing to give you discounts.

Although bargaining is part of the Indian culture, it’s not really meant to lower prices of commodities. Foreign travellers with India visa need to understand that this practice is just entirely for fun, a way of interacting with the shop keeper. You should not feel deprived or disappointed if you fail to win a bargain. So if you already have an India visa, you need to consider learning this Indian custom.

Newbie travellers coming to India with their Indian visa should learn these things first before shopping around.