Getting There / Directions
Shankar Textile Market is located in the Moti Begumwadi area. It is situated right across from the Hariom Textile Market and is very close to Kashi Textile Market and Tirupati Textile Market.
| From Location | Distance | Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Surat Railway Station | 2.0 KM | ~9 mins |
| Udhna Junction | 3.7 KM | ~13 mins |
| Surat International Airport | 15.3 KM | ~34 mins |
About Market
Shankar Textile Market is a well-established wholesale powerhouse with over 20 years of history in Surat’s textile trade.
While it started as a specialized saree market, it has grown into a diverse hub for all types of women’s ethnic wear. The market features upper-floor passages that physically connect it to the Kashi Textile Market for easy access.
It is the preferred destination for business-minded traders who are comfortable with a busy, traditional market environment to get the lowest possible prices.
Who Should Visit / Who Should Avoid
| Who Should Visit | Who Should Avoid |
|---|---|
| ✅ Experienced traders seeking bulk “cut-piece” or budget sarees | ❌ Casual shoppers looking for a luxury mall experience |
| ✅ Fabric designers sourcing raw materials and silks | ❌ Visitors sensitive to extreme heat, sweat, and crowds |
| ✅ Buyers looking for wholesale wedding wear like Chaniya Cholis | ❌ People who do not enjoy bargaining or “hustle” |
| ✅ Retailers sourcing dupatta material and cut pieces | ❌ Those traveling in large private vehicles |
Highlights & Specialities
- Historical Saree Hub: Famous among veteran traders for being a “treasure trove” of printed sarees available in high volumes.
- Cut Pieces by Weight: Unlike newer markets, the upper section of Shankar Market is renowned for selling saree cut pieces (2-3 meters) by weight.
- Budget “Joint” Sarees: Specialist sellers sort, fold, and pack “second-hand” or joint sarees to sell at very cheap, wholesale rates.
- Wedding & Indo-Western: The market has expanded to offer heavy one-piece gowns, Indo-western outfits, and affordable wedding Chaniya Cholis.
Leading Wholesale Destination for Women’s Wear
Shankar Market remains a top choice for sourcing diverse women’s clothing, especially for retailers who want to maximize their budget.
Many shopkeepers here act as semi-manufacturers and resellers, facilitating cash-based transactions that keep prices low.
Best Market for Designer Fabric Sourcing
Beyond finished garments, the market is a “hub for designers”.
From synthetic fabrics to cotton and silk, designers can find a wide range of raw materials at the lowest prices in Surat to assemble custom collections like wedding Chaniya Cholis.
Common Buying Risks & How to Avoid Them
| Risk | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|
| Theft & Safety | Be alert and keep your belongings secure at all times, as crowds can make the lanes quite busy. |
| Frauds & Cheating | Be wary of “local persons” or brokers leading you to shops; deal directly with owners. |
| Quality Variations | Always inspect products carefully before payment, as some sellers deal in surplus or “second” stock. |
Important Things to Know Before Visiting
- Bargaining is Key: This is a market where you must “bargain at your best” to get the right price.
- Cash Transactions: Most trade, especially in lot sarees and cut pieces, happens through cash.
- Transport Services: So many trusted transport services are available nearby for retailers to ship parcels efficiently.
- Patience Required: Due to thousands of small shops and a chaotic environment, finding the best material requires time and patience.
Market Facilities / Amenities
- ✅ Wholesale & Retail Mix: While primarily wholesale, many shopkeepers offer retail sales or can guide you to nearby retail-friendly shops.
- ✅ Interconnected Layout: Easy movement between Shankar and Kashi markets through internal ways on upper floors.
- ✅ Shipping Logistics: Reliable parcel services like VRL are located within 2KM to handle bulk logistics.
- ✅ Nearby Food: Numerous local food stalls are available, though the street environment can be cluttered.
What Not to Expect
- Easy Parking: There is virtually no street parking; visiting by four-wheeler is highly discouraged.
- Western Wear: The market is strictly for Indian ethnic wear and traditional garments; do not look for western-style ready-made clothing.
- Cleanliness: Expect very congested, narrow, and often “dirty” streets compared to fancy shopping malls.
Commonly Asked Questions
Is Shankar Market open on Sunday?
No, the market is closed on Sundays.
Can I buy single pieces (retail) at Shankar Market?
Yes, several shops offer retail latest designs for women’s wear, though many merchants are wholesalers only.
What is the most famous item at this market?
It is most famous for bulk printed sarees and saree cut pieces sold by weight.
Is there parking available for visitors?
No, the area is extremely congested with no street parking; visiting by four-wheeler is strongly discouraged.
How do I ship bulk parcels from here?
So many reliable transport services are available nearby the market to handle bulk logistics and shipping for retailers.
