Exploring Modern Shopping Options in Port Blair

Port Blair, the vibrant capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a dream destination for many travellers, known for its stunning beaches, historical significance, and unique island culture. While shopping for traditional souvenirs like shell crafts and wooden artefacts is a popular activity, the town’s retail landscape is gradually evolving. Beyond the bustling traditional bazaars, a new wave of modern shopping options is emerging, catering to both the everyday needs of locals and the diverse preferences of contemporary travellers. This guide explores these modern shopping avenues, helping visitors discover everything from convenient shopping centres to chic boutiques and stores stocking familiar brands.

The shopping scene in Port Blair is increasingly reflecting a trend seen in many popular tourist destinations: the integration of modern conveniences and retail formats. This evolution offers visitors familiar shopping experiences while also providing locals with access to a broader range of goods and services. It signifies a local economy that is modernizing and aligning with mainland consumer trends, all while striving to maintain its unique cultural retail identity.

Modern Malls & Shopping Centres: Your Hubs for Convenience

While Port Blair may not feature the sprawling mega-malls found in large metropolitan cities, it offers several shopping centres and mall-like establishments that provide a convenient and varied shopping experience. It’s worth noting that some online searches for “malls in Port Blair” may yield results for large malls located in mainland India ; the establishments in Port Blair are generally more modest in scale but serve as important retail hubs.  

Lulu Shopping Mall, Aberdeen Bazaar

Positioned as a premier shopping destination in the heart of Port Blair, Lulu Shopping Mall in Aberdeen Bazaar is a significant modern retail anchor for the city. It attracts both locals and tourists with a diverse array of retail options, ranging from trendy clothing stores to outlets selling artisanal handicrafts, catering to a wide variety of tastes and preferences. The atmosphere is often described as bustling and lively, creating an engaging shopping environment where visitors can also experience elements of local culture.  

Beyond retail, Lulu Shopping Mall features a selection of eateries, offering everything from traditional Indian cuisine to international fast-food options, providing a convenient spot for a meal break during a shopping excursion. The mall is also known to frequently host events and promotions, adding an element of excitement to each visit. Its central location makes it easily accessible, and it offers ample parking facilities.  

• Location & Navigation: Main Road, Aberdeen Bazaar, Mohanpura, Port Blair – 744101. Situated in the heart of Port Blair.  
• Contact: +913192235055.  
• Operating Hours: Daily, 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM.  

NL Lifestyle Mall (formerly F3 Ambience Mall), Phoenix Bay

Once known as F3 Ambience Mall, this establishment, now reportedly operating as NL Lifestyle Mall, was considered Andaman & Nicobar Islands’ first mall, offering a contemporary shopping experience. It has been a destination for clothing, accessories, and electronics, and has included a food court. Some reports suggest that the mall was sold and has been undergoing renovations, particularly for its food court areas, with the new name NL Lifestyle. Stores for clothing and artificial jewellery were noted as still being available during this transition.  

The presence of such a mall, even in transition, marked a pioneering step in Port Blair’s modern retail development. Given the potential changes, visitors might find the current offerings or atmosphere different from past descriptions, and it’s advisable to check locally for the most up-to-date information. There have been conflicting reports regarding its Sunday operations; while some older sources indicated it was closed on Sundays , more recent listings suggest it is open daily.  

• Location & Navigation: Mohanpura, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Phoenix Bay – 744101. Also listed as MP9Q+WGX, Mohanpura or Mohanpura, Sri Vijaya Puram. It is conveniently located near the STS Bus Stand.  
  
• Operating Hours: Generally listed as 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily. However, travellers may wish to verify Sunday opening hours due to some conflicting information.  

Mubarak Mall (Thomas Colony) & Mubarak Hypermarket (Phoenix Bay)

It is important for visitors to distinguish between Mubarak Mall and Mubarak Hypermarket, as they are distinct entities in different locations.

Mubarak Mall: Located in Thomas Colony, Mubarak Mall is listed as a shopping centre. It offers facilities such as wheelchair-accessible car parking. Some user reviews describe it as a convenient place for grocery needs, including items like dry fruits, chocolates, and bakery products. This suggests it may be a smaller shopping complex anchored by grocery retail.  

• Location & Navigation: Junglighat, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Thomas Colony, Port Blair – 744101.  
• Operating Hours: Open until 9:00 PM.  

Mubarak Hypermarket: Situated in Phoenix Bay, Mubarak Hypermarket is a more prominent modern retail destination, often described as the go-to place for all household needs and potentially the only true hypermarket on the island. It stocks an extensive range of products including fresh fruits and vegetables, grains, spices, various household essentials, crockery, small electrical appliances, and gift items. A key feature is its fixed pricing policy, with products sold at the Maximum Retail Price (MRP).  

• Location & Navigation: Biggie Line, Sri Vijaya Puram, Phoenix Bay, Port Blair – 744101 (Near Bengali Club).  
• Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday: 8:30 AM – 8:30 PM; Sunday: Closed.  

Dhan Shopping Mall, Prem Nagar

Dhan Shopping Mall, located in the Prem Nagar area, appears to be a more specialized shopping complex, housing notable stores such as AURAA – A Lifestyle Brand, which offers unique gifts, home decor, and souvenirs , and Fabindia, known for its ethnic wear and organic products. This indicates a focus on lifestyle products and branded ethnic fashion, appealing to shoppers looking for distinctive items.  

• Location & Navigation: Dhan Shopping Mall, Prem Nagar, Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, 744102. Fabindia is listed at Shop Nos. 03, 17, 18, 19, and 20, Main Road, Delanipur (Survey No 57/7, J.N., Prem Nagar), Port Blair – 744102. The Prem Nagar and Delanipur addresses likely refer to the same complex or very close vicinity.
  
• Operating Hours: Mall-specific hours are not detailed, but AURAA – A Lifestyle Brand operates Monday-Thursday & Saturday from 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM, Friday from 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM, and is closed on Sundays.  

The “mall” concept in Port Blair is clearly evolving. While establishments like Lulu Shopping Mall and NL Lifestyle Mall aim to provide a more comprehensive shopping centre experience with retail, food, and potentially entertainment, others like Dhan Shopping Mall function more as shopping complexes with a few key anchor stores. Mubarak Hypermarket, on the other hand, represents the modern large-format supermarket. This differentiation is important for visitors to understand, as not all places termed “malls” will offer the same scale or variety of experience. The development of these varied shopping centres, regardless of their size, contributes significantly to the modernization of Port Blair’s retail landscape, offering alternatives to traditional bazaars and catering to a wider spectrum of consumer needs.

Table 1: Quick Guide to Port Blair Malls & Shopping Centres

Chic Boutiques & Branded Finds: Fashion Forward in Port Blair

Beyond the larger shopping centres, Port Blair offers a selection of charming boutiques for those seeking unique style statements, alongside stores where visitors can find familiar brands. This combination caters to different shopping motivations – the thrill of discovering something new versus the comfort of known quality.

Unique Boutiques for Distinctive Style

• Vastraanjali: Nestled in DAG Colony (some listings also mention Phoenix Bay), Vastraanjali is a women’s clothing store that beautifully merges traditional aesthetics with contemporary fashion. It offers an inspiring selection of sarees, salwar kameez, kurtis, and other ethnic and casual chic wear, often featuring vibrant colours and intricate patterns.
  • Location & Navigation: DAG Colony, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, 744101.  
  • Contact: +913192232418.  
  • Operating Hours: Varied; e.g., Mon-Fri: 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM, Sat: 12:00 PM – 7:30 PM, Sun: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM. (Note: S11 has 8:30 am for Monday closing, likely a typo and should be pm).
    
• Ramolon: Located in DAG Colony (also mentioned near Aberdeen Bazaar), Ramolon is a souvenir store that presents an eclectic range of “quirky handicrafts and artistic souvenirs made by local artisans”. It aims to provide a cultural experience, connecting visitors with the heart of the Andaman Islands through its art and locally made crafts, from traditional artworks to decorative pieces and small trinkets.
  • Location & Navigation: 10, Gandhi Bhawan, near Maharashtra Mandal, Port Blair, DAG Colony, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, 744101. Another reference point is “near APWD and opposite to Gurudwara Lane near Aberdeen Bazaar”.  
  • Operating Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM.
    
• The Panache Boutique: Situated in the bustling Aberdeen area, opposite the iconic Clock Tower, The Panache Boutique is recognized as a leading boutique in Port Blair. While specific product details are not extensively listed, its category suggests a focus on fashion apparel and accessories, offering a wide range of products or services.
  • Location & Navigation: Shop No. 2, Ground Floor, Agency House Arcade, Bazar, Aberdeen, Port Blair – 744104 (Opposite Clock Tower).  
  • Contact: Phone number available on Justdial by clicking “Show Number”.  
  • Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Sunday: Closed.
    
• AURAA – A Lifestyle Brand: Found within Dhan Shopping Mall in Prem Nagar, AURAA is a gift and lifestyle store. It curates a collection of unique and high-quality products that reflect local culture and craftsmanship, including exquisite souvenirs, elegant corporate gifts, custom gift baskets, and a variety of home-enhancing items like decor pieces, scented soaps, artistic pillows, and ceramic mugs.
  • Location & Navigation: Dhan Shopping Mall, Prem Nagar, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, 744102.  
  • Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday & Saturday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM; Friday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM; Sunday: Closed.  

Familiar Brands and Local Retail Chains

Port Blair’s branded fashion scene is characterized by a mix of local multi-brand outlets (MBOs) that stock national and international brands, strong local retail chains, and a few exclusive brand outlets (EBOs). This creates a different shopping dynamic compared to mainland cities, which often have a higher concentration of EBOs and large department store chains. The limited direct presence of some major national chains may, in fact, foster a more diverse retail environment, allowing local entrepreneurs and boutiques to flourish.

• Blue Ink: This store operates as a multi-brand fashion hub, stocking well-known labels such as Levi’s, Crocs, Allen Solly, and Van Heusen. It caters to both men and women, offering apparel and footwear. Blue Ink appears to have at least two locations:
  
  • Phoenix Bay: D M K Building, Opposite Ambedkar Auditorium, Marine Road, Phoenix Bay, Port Blair – 744101. Open until 8:45 PM.  
  • Prem Nagar (Blue Ink Uptown): ATR Main Road (Near Anand Paradise Theater School Line), Prem Nagar, Port Blair – 744103. Contact: +913192233722.
    
• Goenka’s: A significant local retail chain, Goenka’s is described as a “family shopping paradise” with multiple floors offering trendy to ethnic wear for all ages, and is also noted as a good spot for wedding outfits. The Goenka group operates various store formats across Port Blair and other parts of the islands, including “Goenkas Bambooflat Family Store,” “Goenka’s Aberdeen Bazar,” “Goenka’s Bathubasti,” “Goenka’s Trends” outlets, and even a supermarket (“Goenka Mega Mart,” detailed later). They offer a wide range of fashion apparel and accessories.
  
  • Key Locations & Navigation:
    
    • Aberdeen Bazar: 1st Floor MB 80, RK Complex, Aberdeen Bazar (Opp. Sampat lodge, near Clock Tower), Port Blair – 744101. Contact: 9609573939.  
    • Bambooflat (Family Store): Near Jetty, Sri Vijaya Puram, Bambooflat, Port Blair – 744107. Open 8:30 AM – 8:30 PM. Contact: 9609017300.  
    • Bathubasti: Ground Floor, Bathubasti (below Axis bank), Port Blair – 744105. Contact: 9609144003.  
    • (Other locations include Diglipur, Goenka’s Trends in Bambooflat and Aberdeen Bazar, Zola Showroom in Bathubasti, and their Head Office in Minnie Bay. Full list and contacts available on their website ).
      
• Bata: The well-known national footwear brand, Bata, has a presence in Port Blair. Their store (ID 4231) offers a range of footwear for men, women, and children, along with accessories.
  • Location & Navigation: M A Road, Phoenix Bay, Port Blair, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, 744102. Another listing mentions A. J. Traders at Kerala Samajam, Phoenix Bay, M A Road, as a Bata dealer.  
  • Contact: 9434260336.  
  • Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
     
• Fabindia: This popular national brand, known for its ethnic wear, handloom textiles, personal care products, and organic food items, has an outlet in Port Blair.
  • Location & Navigation: Dhan Shopping Mall, Shop Nos. 03, 17, 18, 19, and 20, Main Road, Delanipur (Survey No 57/7, J.N., Prem Nagar), Port Blair – 744102.
    
• Reliance Footprint: While Reliance Footprint is a major footwear retail chain in India, its physical presence in Port Blair is not clearly confirmed by the provided research material. Some listings are either for other cities or refer to its online store. Travellers seeking this specific brand may need to rely on online shopping options or verify locally.  

Major National Retail Chains – Presence Check

Many travellers might be accustomed to finding large national department store and fashion retail chains in most Indian cities. In Port Blair, the presence of some of these larger chains appears limited:

• Lifestyle, Pantaloons, Max Fashion, Westside, Zudio: Based on general company information and store locators for mainland India, these major fashion retail chains do not seem to have dedicated, large-format stores in Port Blair currently. While some local stores might stock products from brands associated with these chains (e.g., Allen Solly, Van Heusen via Blue Ink ), the full department store experience of a “Lifestyle” or “Pantaloons” is likely unavailable.
  
• Croma, Reliance Digital (Electronics): Similarly, major electronics chains like Croma and Reliance Digital do not appear to have physical stores in Port Blair, with the electronics market being served by local retailers.  

This highlights that the modern shopping experience in Port Blair, while growing, has its own unique character, relying more on local enterprises and select national brands rather than a full replication of mainland India’s extensive retail chain network.

Table 2: Snapshot of Key Branded Stores & Boutiques in Port Blair

Exploring Key Shopping Areas: A Mix of Old and New

Port Blair’s primary shopping experiences are often concentrated in its traditional market areas, which are increasingly incorporating modern retail elements. These bustling streets offer a vibrant atmosphere where visitors can find a wide array of goods.

Aberdeen Bazaar: The Bustling Heart

Aberdeen Bazaar stands as the main shopping hub of Port Blair, a historic and lively marketplace that pulses with activity. It offers a quintessential Port Blair shopping experience, presenting a diverse range of items. Here, shoppers can find everything from locally made souvenirs, intricately crafted woodwork, unique jewellery, and traditional fabrics to local artwork, leather goods, clothing, footwear, and household items. The atmosphere is particularly vibrant in the evenings, with local snack vendors adding to the lively scene.  

This area is not just about traditional stalls; it also houses more organized retail outlets. The renowned Sagarika Government Emporium is located here, offering authentic handicrafts. Several boutiques and stores like The Panache Boutique , Queen Sea Shell Craft , Island Craft Emporium , and a branch of Goenka’s are also situated in or around Aberdeen Bazaar, blending modern retail with the traditional market feel. A key landmark for navigation is the Clock Tower. This organic integration of modern retail into an existing commercial heartland allows visitors to experience an authentic local market while also accessing contemporary shopping options.  

MG Road: A Shopper’s Stroll

MG Road (Mahatma Gandhi Road) is another significant commercial street in Port Blair, buzzing with local shops and stalls that cater to a variety of shopping needs. It’s an excellent place for a “family shopping spree,” offering clothing (including traditional Indian wear like colourful lungis and sarees), footwear, fashion accessories, and unique tribal jewellery. If you’re planning a longer stay or need daily essentials, MG Road is a good place to stock up. The street is also dotted with eateries, perfect for a quick bite after a shopping excursion. For those interested in local products, MG Road is recommended for sourcing authentic Andaman spices, jute items, and cane goods. Modern retail establishments like the City Super Shoppee department store and the Bata footwear store (located on M A Road, which is an extension or part of the general MG Road area) can also be found here.  

These traditional market areas demonstrate an adaptation to modern retail trends, creating a hybrid shopping environment where the old and new coexist, offering a richer and more integrated cultural and shopping journey for tourists.

Specialty Shopping: Electronics, Handicrafts, and Local Gems

Beyond general apparel and malls, Port Blair has specific avenues for specialty shopping, particularly for electronics and authentic local handicrafts.

Electronics Stores: Gadgets and Gizmos

For electronics, Port Blair relies on established local shops rather than the large national chains commonly found in mainland Indian cities. This means the range of products or specific high-end brands might differ, and after-sales service will be localized. However, these local businesses are vital for both residents and tourists needing electronic goods or repairs.

• Techmec Electronics: A long-established store (since 1985) located in Aberdeen Bazaar, Port Blair HO, 744101. They also function as a service centre for Philips mobiles.
  • Contact: 9434280931.  
• Universal Sales Agencies: Also situated in Aberdeen Bazaar, Port Blair HO, 744101. This store serves as a Panasonic mobile service centre.
  • Contact: 03192 230173, Mobile: 9434282222.  
• Super Electronics: Located at Port Blair HO, 744101.
  • Contact: 03192 246198, Mobile: 9476045666.  
• Lulu Electronics: Found on MG Road, Phoenix Bay, near Aberdeen Bazaar.  

Other local electronics stores include Hajira Electronic Centre and S.M Agency, both in the M G Market / Mohanpura Road area.  

Table 3: Electronics Hubs in Port Blair

Modern Handicraft & Souvenir Stores: Authentic & Quality Keepsakes

For those looking to take home a piece of Andaman’s unique culture, several stores offer authentic handicrafts and souvenirs with a more curated and reliable shopping experience. The “modern” aspect here often relates to fixed prices, quality assurance, and direct support to artisans.

• Sagarika Government Emporium: This government-run emporium is a highly recommended destination for authentic Andaman handicrafts, ensuring fair, fixed prices and supporting local artisans. It showcases a wide spectrum of items, including beautiful shell jewellery, intricate coconut shell crafts, wooden artefacts made from local woods like Padauk, colourful tribal artefacts, jute products, and local spices. While generally praised for authenticity, some visitor feedback suggests occasionally checking for old stock or price consistency at billing.
  • Location & Navigation: Middle Point, Port Blair (Opposite the State Library).  
  • Contact: 03192-234774.  
  • Operating Hours: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (or 8:45 AM to 6:45 PM as per ). Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays.
    
• Queen Sea Shell Craft: Specializing in items made from seashells, this store also offers unique crafts from bamboo, cane, and coconut shells, including jewellery, photo frames, and keychains. (Note: While some sources mention a store by this name on Havelock Island, there is a distinct Port Blair location).
  • Location & Navigation: Supply Lane, Aberdeen Bazar, M G Road, Port Blair HO – 744101.  
  • Operating Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM. Accepts cash payments.
    
• Island Crafts Emporium: This establishment functions as both a wholesale and retail shop for local crafts and is also a dealer in sea shells.
  • Location & Navigation: Supply Lane, Aberdeen Bazar, Hospital Road, Port Blair HO – 744101.  
  • Contact: 9933222027 / 7865030922.  
  • Operating Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
    
• Khadi Gramodyog Bhavan / Khadi Outlets: Khadi outlets are generally known for hand-spun and hand-woven cloth, village industries products, and local items at affordable prices. While some online listings for “Khadi Gramodyog Bhavan” in Port Blair are misattributed to mainland cities , travellers interested in Khadi products may find them at government-supported outlets or local stores specializing in traditional textiles. It is advisable to inquire locally for specific Khadi store locations in Port Blair.  

Supermarkets & Department Stores: Everyday Conveniences with a Modern Touch

For everyday necessities, groceries, and a broader range of household items, Port Blair has several supermarkets and department stores that offer an organized and convenient shopping experience. This marks a significant shift towards modern, organized retail for daily needs, enhancing convenience for both locals and tourists, especially those on longer stays or preferring self-catering options.

• Mubarak Hypermarket: (Also mentioned under Shopping Centres) This is a key player, described as potentially the “only hypermarket on the island”. It offers an extensive selection of groceries, fresh produce, household items, crockery, small electricals, and more, all under one roof with fixed MRP prices.
  • Location & Navigation: Biggie Line, Phoenix Bay, Port Blair – 744101 (Near Bengali Club).  
  • Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday: 8:30 AM – 8:30 PM; Sunday: Closed.
    
• VMR Supermart: This supermarket is known to stock groceries, and some listings mention organic products and Wi-Fi availability. It has garnered positive customer ratings.
  • Location & Navigation: Ma Road, Port Blair HO, Port Blair – 744101.  
  • Website: www.vmrenterprises.com.
    
• S-Mart: Located in Delanipur, S-Mart is a supermarket and general store offering groceries, snacks, dry fruits, and other essentials.
  • Location & Navigation: No 68/2 M A Road, Delanipur, Port Blair – 744102 (Opposite Govt Sec School Delanipur).  
• Goenka Mega Mart: Part of the local Goenka retail group, this supermarket provides another option for grocery and household shopping.
  • Location & Navigation: Garacharama, Port Blair – 744105 (Near Vinayaka Temple).  
  • Operating Hours: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM.  
  • Website: www.goenkamegamart.com.
    
• City Super Shoppee: This departmental store, with a long history in Port Blair (established 1986 and claiming to be the first supermarket in 2000), offers a wide variety of products including groceries, stationery, household items, hotel wares, kitchen wares, and electronics. They also provide home delivery services and cater to government orders, functioning as a wholesale supplier too.
  • Location & Navigation: Aberdeen Bazar, M G Road, Port Blair – 744101. Another entry points to a location near the Clock Tower on M G Road, Aberdeen Bazar – 744104. These likely refer to the same establishment or very close branches within the main market area.  

Other supermarkets mentioned in local listings include Tee Tee Enterprises in Bambooflat and Skds Super Market in Dollygunj, catering to various localities.  

Tips for a Savvy Shopper in Port Blair

Navigating the shopping scene in Port Blair can be a delightful experience with a few handy tips:

• Bargaining: Be prepared to bargain politely in local markets like Aberdeen Bazaar and with street vendors, as it’s often part of the shopping culture. However, prices are generally fixed in government emporiums (e.g., Sagarika), modern shopping centres, branded stores, and supermarkets like Mubarak Hypermarket. Understanding this duality is key.
  
• Best Times to Shop: For a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds, weekday mornings are often ideal for visiting malls and popular stores. Markets like Aberdeen Bazaar come alive in the evenings, offering a more vibrant atmosphere. Remember that some markets, like the Junglighat Sunday Market, operate on specific days and times (Sunday morning to afternoon).
  
• Payment Methods: While larger establishments and malls are likely to accept credit/debit cards, it’s wise to carry sufficient cash, especially when shopping in smaller shops, local markets, or for street food. Connectivity issues can sometimes affect card payment systems in some locations.
  
• Authenticity & Quality: When purchasing local handicrafts, especially items like pearls or valuable shell crafts, opt for reputable sources like Sagarika Government Emporium to ensure authenticity and fair pricing. Always check the quality of items, particularly pearls. It’s a good practice to keep receipts for purchases like shells, as they might be required for inspection at the airport during security checks.
   
• Eco-Friendly Shopping: Look for sustainable and eco-friendly products. Chidiya Tapu is mentioned for its eco-friendly shops offering items made from natural materials. Jute and bamboo products are also widely available and make for great environmentally conscious purchases.  
• Getting Around: Key shopping areas are generally accessible by auto-rickshaws or local transport. Using Google Maps with the specific addresses and landmarks provided throughout this guide will aid in easy navigation.
  
• Local Specialties to Look For: Don’t forget to explore Andaman’s signature souvenirs: intricately carved shell crafts, elegant pearl jewellery, items made from the local Padauk wood, creative coconut shell crafts, aromatic spices, and eco-friendly jute and bamboo products.

Exploring the modern shopping options in Port Blair reveals a retail environment that is thoughtfully blending contemporary convenience with its unique island charm. While it may not boast the vast malls of mainland metropolises, the town offers a respectable and growing array of choices for the modern traveller. From the convenience of shopping centres like Lulu Shopping Mall and hypermarkets like Mubarak Hypermarket to the curated collections in boutiques such as Vastraanjali and Ramolon, and the presence of familiar brands like Bata and Fabindia, visitors can find much more than just traditional souvenirs.

The integration of modern retail within historic market areas like Aberdeen Bazaar and MG Road allows for a shopping experience that is both practical and culturally immersive. Government emporiums like Sagarika play a crucial role in providing authentic, fixed-price local crafts, ensuring that the essence of Andaman artistry is accessible and supports local artisans.

For travellers, this means an opportunity to shop for daily necessities, find fashionable apparel, pick up unique gifts, or simply enjoy a modern retail environment. By being aware of the types of stores available, their locations, and a few local shopping customs, visitors can make the most of Port Blair’s evolving and increasingly diverse shopping scene.

Here’s a quick guide to the best modern shopping spots in Port Blair, complete with what to buy, where to go, and how much to spend!

1. Sagarika Emporium: High-Quality Handicrafts at Fixed Prices

Sagarika Emporium is a government-run store that supports local artisans by selling authentic Andaman handicrafts. It’s a perfect place if you prefer fixed prices without the hassle of bargaining. The products here are of high quality, making it a popular spot for tourists looking for souvenirs.

What to Buy:

• Pearl jewelry and accessories
• Handcrafted wooden items made from Andaman padauk wood
• Shell-decorated mirrors, boxes, and home décor
• Eco-friendly jute bags

Cost Range:

• Wooden artifacts: ₹500 – ₹3,000
• Pearl jewelry: ₹1,500 – ₹5,000
• Shell products: ₹300 – ₹2,000

Tips:

• Since this is a government store, prices are non-negotiable but fair.
• Carry both cash and cards as payment options are flexible here.

2. Aberdeen Bazaar: Where Modern Meets Traditional

Aberdeen Bazaar is Port Blair’s main shopping area and offers a mix of traditional markets and newer stores. While you’ll find plenty of street vendors selling handicrafts, there are also modern clothing stores, electronic shops, and local boutiques.

What to Buy:

• Casual and beachwear at modern clothing stores
• Electronic goods and accessories
• Locally made beauty and wellness products

Cost Range:

• Clothing: ₹500 – ₹2,500
• Electronics: ₹1,000 – ₹10,000 depending on the product
• Handicrafts: ₹300 – ₹2,000

Tips:

• Explore side streets for boutique stores offering unique clothing and accessories.
• Bargaining is common with smaller vendors, but larger stores have fixed prices.

3. Andaman Handicrafts Emporium: Boutique Shopping Experience

This boutique store offers beautifully curated collections of local arts and crafts. It’s similar to Sagarika Emporium but focuses more on modern designs inspired by Andaman culture.

What to Buy:

• Designer shell jewelry
• Hand-painted home décor items
• Coconut shell lamps and sculptures

Cost Range:

• Jewelry: ₹1,000 – ₹3,000
• Decorative items: ₹500 – ₹2,500

Tips:

• The emporium often collaborates with local artists, so check out limited-edition pieces.
• Look for seasonal discounts, especially during tourist peaks like October to March.

4. N.K. International Shopping Arcade

Located near major hotels, N.K. International Shopping Arcade offers a modern shopping experience with a range of stores under one roof. This arcade is ideal if you’re looking for convenience, as it has fashion outlets, electronic shops, and a small supermarket.

What to Buy:

• Branded clothing and footwear
• Electronics and phone accessories
• Groceries and daily essentials

Cost Range:

• Clothing: ₹1,000 – ₹3,500
• Phone accessories: ₹300 – ₹1,500
• Groceries: ₹100 – ₹1,000 depending on the items

Tips:

• If you’re staying at a nearby hotel, this is a good place to pick up last-minute essentials.
• Compare prices with other stores before buying electronics.

5. Atho Yona Shopping Complex

This is a relatively new addition to Port Blair’s shopping scene and caters primarily to locals. However, tourists can also find affordable options for clothes, footwear, and beauty products.

What to Buy:

• Ready-made clothing and footwear
• Budget-friendly cosmetics and skincare products
• Household items

Cost Range:

• Clothing: ₹500 – ₹2,000
• Cosmetics: ₹100 – ₹1,000
• Household items: ₹200 – ₹1,500

Tips:

• While the prices are already reasonable, it doesn’t hurt to ask for discounts.
• Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds.

6. Big Mart Supermarket: For All Your Essentials

For those staying in Port Blair for a few days, Big Mart is a one-stop shop for groceries, toiletries, and other essentials. It’s similar to chain supermarkets you’d find in mainland cities, offering a clean, organized shopping experience.

What to Buy:

• Snacks and beverages
• Personal care products
• Packaged souvenirs like locally made cookies or spices

Cost Range:

• Groceries: ₹100 – ₹2,000
• Personal care: ₹50 – ₹1,000

Tips:

• Stock up on water bottles and snacks if you plan to visit remote islands.
• Big Mart accepts cards and digital payments, making it convenient for tourists.

7. Phoenix Bay Harbour Shopping Stalls

Before boarding ferries to nearby islands like Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) and Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep), you’ll find a cluster of stalls near the Phoenix Bay Jetty. These stalls sell quick souvenirs and travel essentials.

What to Buy:

• Hats, sunglasses, and beachwear
• Small souvenirs like magnets and keychains
• Travel essentials (water bottles, sunscreen, etc.)

Cost Range:

• Hats and sunglasses: ₹200 – ₹800
• Souvenirs: ₹100 – ₹500

Tips:

• Prices here can be inflated for tourists, so don’t hesitate to negotiate.
• Buy any last-minute items you need for your island trips.

8. Online and Delivery Services in Port Blair

While Port Blair doesn’t have access to all the e-commerce services available on the mainland, some stores offer local delivery options. You can also find a few online platforms for booking local handicrafts and groceries.

Popular Services:

• Local grocery delivery apps
• Handicraft stores with online catalogues for pre-orders

Tips:

• Check with your hotel to see if they have partnerships with local delivery services.
• Pre-order handicrafts to avoid carrying large items during your flight.

9. Shopping Tips for Modern Port Blair

1. Carry Both Cash and Cards: While many stores now accept digital payments, some smaller shops still prefer cash.
2. Explore Multiple Stores: Prices and product quality can vary, so visit a few stores before making big purchases.
3. Look for Local Brands: Support small businesses and artisans by choosing locally made products over mass-produced items.
4. Check Product Quality: Especially for electronics and clothing, make sure you inspect items before buying.
5. Avoid Peak Hours: Markets can get crowded in the late afternoon and evening, so try shopping earlier in the day.

Port Blair offers a unique shopping experience where traditional markets meet modern stores. Whether you’re browsing high-quality handicrafts at Sagarika Emporium or picking up essentials at a supermarket, there’s something for everyone. By exploring both local and modern shopping options, you’ll discover hidden gems that reflect the rich culture of the Andaman Islands.

So, happy shopping, and don’t forget to bring home a piece of Andaman’s charm!

Have you shopped in Port Blair? Share your favorite stores and finds in the comments below!