“The historic ‘Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Market’, formerly known as ‘Crawford Market’, was built in 1869 during the time when Mumbai was called ‘Bombay’. It was named after Arthur Crawford, but now it is remembered in honor of the Indian social reformer, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule. Despite being located near the Police Headquarters in South Mumbai, it is still commonly referred to as ‘Crawford Market’ by the locals.
This market, which is renowned for its age and popularity, is a preferred destination for purchasing festive decorations, dry fruits, vegetables, and more. While there are other wholesale markets in Mumbai, this place offers the best deals compared to shops in the western and central suburbs.
People visit this market not only for its affordable prices, but also for the wide range of options available. Its iconic heritage appearance adds to the charm. In addition to special shopping for Diwali and Christmas, there are also shops selling plastic crockery, chocolates, and even pets and birds…”
What to Expect While Shopping at Crawford Market
During vacations and festival seasons, this market becomes extremely crowded. Despite the availability of the BMC public pay and park system, finding parking can be a challenge if you plan to shop here with your vehicle. This historic building, which dates back to the time when Mumbai was ruled by the British, still retains its unique charm, especially at night (refer to pictures). It is considered a heritage structure.
Until 1996, this market was the only wholesale market in Mumbai. However, as transportation improved and the need for larger and better spaces arose, the wholesale market shifted to Navi Mumbai APMC market. The market is filled with small and big shops that offer a wide range of fruits, vegetables, dry fruits, and other nuts at wholesale rates. However, the narrow lanes inside the market can get quite crowded in the evenings.
In one corner of the market, you can also find imported products such as cheese and chocolate. Everything from fruits and vegetables to party decorations like candles, children’s caps, snow spray, balloons, sweets, chocolates, biscuits, and bakery products can be found here. Additionally, there is a variety of imported toys available for children and toddlers.
Shops List: Brands and Products Sold at This Wholesale Rate Market
Curious about what Crawford market is known for? If you’re planning a shopping trip there, here’s what you can expect.
Although this place is not known for its bargaining opportunities, as the prices are already discounted, you can still try to negotiate a few deals if you are buying in large quantities. The goal should always be to get the best deal at the cheapest price, just like every Mumbaikar does.
Crawford Market is renowned for its extensive range of merchandise, which includes an array of fresh produce like fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, seafood, spices, condiments, tea, coffee, dried goods such as grains and pulses, household items like kitchenware and cleaning supplies, personal care products such as soap and cosmetics, clothing, accessories, toys, gifts, books, stationery, art, and antiques. This bustling market attracts both tourists and locals alike.
The architecture of the building is characterized by Gothic-style arches, spires, and turrets, along with intricate stone carvings and stained glass windows. A prominent feature is the grand entrance located on the southern side, distinguished by a sizable archway. Inside, the building follows a rectangular layout, with a central corridor spanning its length and smaller rooms and stalls branching off on either side. Constructed using a combination of stone and brick, the building boasts a slate roof and ornate stone embellishments.
Crawford Market enjoys excellent accessibility via local buses, trains, and taxis. Situated near the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, a major transportation hub in the city, reaching the market is convenient. For those driving to Crawford Market, parking lots are available in the vicinity. However, it is important to note that traffic congestion can be significant in this part of the city, particularly during peak hours. Given its location in a densely populated area, walking to the market from nearby neighborhoods is a convenient option.
What to Know Before Your Visit
Opening and Closing Hours (Weekly Closed Days)
Crawford Market operates daily from approximately 9 or 10 am until 8 pm, with the exception of Sundays when it typically remains closed. However, being in the vicinity of this market on Sundays can still be enjoyable, as a whole new array of street vendors emerge.
So if you ask, Is crawford market open today ? then answer is Yes, if it is not Sunday.
Best time to Visit This Market
Crawford Market in Mumbai, India is a well-known spot for tourists. Although it’s open all year round, it’s recommended to plan your visit between November and February when the weather is more pleasant. Mumbai’s temperatures can get quite high and humid, so if you’re not a fan of the heat, it’s best to avoid visiting during the busiest tourist season.
Where is it located in Mumbai
The bustling Crawford Market, which is also referred to as Mahatma Jyoti Phule Mandai, can be found in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. It is positioned across from the Mumbai Police headquarters, to the north of Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station, and to the west of the J.J. flyover at a heavily trafficked intersection.
Address: The market’s official address is Mata Ramabai Ambedkar Marg, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001.
Which all station to get down to reach (Nearest Railway Station)
Crawford is conveniently linked to CST station for those traveling from Central Mumbai Route. The closest station for the Western Railway route is ‘Marine Lines’, which is only a 10 to 15-minute walk from the railway station or a 5-minute taxi ride away.
If you are planning to visit Mumbai by train using the Western Railway route, the nearest railway station would be Marine Lines. However, if you are traveling via the Central railway route, CST is the most preferred and closest railway station.
Online Shopping Options
It is important to be cautious of individuals who pose as online sellers or wholesale dealers at Crawford market, as they may be opportunists selling their own private products. Instead, it is recommended to explore the variety of products available at this market, which are sold offline only at this location.
While similar products may be found on various online shopping platforms, it is beneficial to take note of the wide range of goods sold at Crawford market, including fresh produce, meat, poultry, seafood, spices, condiments, tea, coffee, grains, pulses, kitchenware, cleaning supplies, personal care products, clothing, accessories, toys, gifts, books, stationery, art, and antiques. This market is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.
More Attractions Near This Market
- Charni Road Markets
- Famous Badshah Falooda Exactly Opposite Market for snacks and refreshment, See menu.
- Jama Masjid, An Old Muslim Mosque.
- Kalbadevi Market, Famous for clothes shopping.
- Very old and famous Mumbadevi Temple.
- Zaveri Bazaar (Jewelry market)
- Mohammad Ali road famous during EID and also for small big shopping.
- Tourist Attraction, Gateway Of India.
- Nariman Point Promenade.
- Also checkout attractions and their nearest station here and area wise attractions.
WHAT PEOPLE SAYS ?
There are various opinions about the cost here. Some people claim it is inexpensive, while others argue that there is no significant difference. A few individuals have encountered aggressive salespeople, but many others have had positive experiences.
What is your experience for current year Shopping ?
One line Comment below that actually helps others to decide about their next visit to Crawford market.
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