Linking Road Market in Mumbai: The Cheapest and Most Fashionable Market in Mumbai

Bandra is not just famous for Shah Rukh Khan’s Mannat; although it is the main attraction, no matter how much I deny it, another thing you should look forward to in Bandra is the Linking Road market in Mumbai. 

This one is not as cheap as Delhi’s Sarojini Nagar market, but you’ll find the best craftsmanship and designs here without worrying about the quality of clothes. 

Let’s look at the major attractions of this market and how it became so popular over the past decade. 

Bandra Linking Road Market: Overview and History

Over the years, Linking Road has changed from being a peaceful residential neighborhood to a busy business center. 

It started to become well-known in the middle of the 20th century and has since come to represent shopping in Mumbai.

RD National College might be the main reason for the rapid growth of the market when fashion shops first started to pop up. 

From a bird’s-eye view, Bandra Market Linking Road is a go-to place and the first choice for Mumbai’s subjects. Even the Bollywood troupers have shown their interest and hyped the market beyond words. 

On one hand, many people in Mumbai have called it a cheap flea market; Times Now named it among one of the Most Expensive Markets in India. 

Timings of Linking Road Market in Mumbai 

There are no fixed opening or closing timings for the Linking Rd market; different shops in the market close at different times. 

But ideally the market opens at 10 am and closes at 9 pm; most shopkeepers by this time retire back to their homes and only the food joints see the rush. 

Although during the festive season like Holi, Diwali, Ganesh Chaturthi, Janmashtami, etc., the whole market stays awake as late as 11 p.m. 

You might also find some shops closed on Mondays and Thursdays; as I said, there are no proper timings set for the entire market, but you’ll still find lots of shops open throughout the day. 

Best Time to Visit The Flea Market at Linking Road Mumbai

The market is usually crowded with people throughout the year but if you’re looking for the best time to visit the Bandra Market Linking Road, here is what you need to keep in mind ~

1. Visiting during summers (March to June): The temperature of Mumbai during the summer will make you sweat and feel uncomfortable. So avoid going during these months. 

2. Visit During Monsoon (July to September): The market is one of the best places to visit in September. But remember, since it rains a lot in Mumbai, the peak monsoon season is not the best time to visit. 

3. Make a visit in the winter (October to February): Winter makes up for the best time to visit the Liking Road market since it’s neither too hot nor too cold, and you can freely explore. 

Why Visit the Linking Road Market: What to Shop? 

Linking Road is the street-style flea market that you might find in every city. The difference is you’ll find all new, interesting, and in-fashion stuff here without worrying about the quality. 

On my visit, I made a full list of things you can expect to buy from here, along with where you’ll find the best stuff. 

So keep reading if you want to make the most of your shopping expedition. 

1. Clothes

It is obvious; the first thing you’ll see right after entering the market are clothes… and more clothes. Women’s stuff mainly dominates the market.

The cloth market starts from the Hotel Linkway or Bata showroom. Be it hot pants from Xtacy, jeans from the underground market, or branded stuff from showrooms, you’ll find exactly what you need here.  

If you explore the street market, you can easily buy ethnic and western wear starting from ₹150 to ₹500. You can also find some amazing plus-size ethnic wear in the Shifa collection up to 8XL, located in the Gazebo market.

2. Footwear

You’ll see the latest collection of heels and shoes for both men and women here; the stock is always regulated, so surf for the best quality and cheap prices.

The best place to shop for footwear is Mochi Lane, which is a whole street filled with shops selling just footwear. 

3. Jewelry

If you want to purchase beautiful imitation jewelry, Linking Road Mumbai is the best place to be. 

Sukkhi showroom is one of the oldest and best places to buy artificial jewelry. Trust me on this one; you won’t regret it. If not Sukkhi showroom, you’ll also find street vendors selling earrings and other stuff just for ₹50. 

4. Makeup

You can also buy cheap makeup from the roadside stalls. Although I won’t recommend it because it was so cheap, it felt too good to be true, which maybe it is. 

Most probably the makeup was not of genuine quality, but if you still want to buy, you’ll get a commendable variety here. 

Enjoy this short YouTube video by Meenakshi Salvi vlogs on the Linking Road market.

Bandra Linking Road Market Photo 

Look at these photos of the vibrant Linking Road Mumbai market ~

How to Reach Linking Road Mumbai?

Reaching the Linking Road market in Mumbai is relatively straightforward due to its central location and excellent connectivity. Here’s the location and some ways to get there:

• Address — Linking Road Market 33rd Road, Khar West Mumbai, Maharashtra

• By Train: Mumbai’s local train network is one of the most efficient ways to travel around the city.

1. Western Line

• Santacruz Station: You can alight at Santacruz Station, which is about 2.6 km from the market. From there, it’s a short rickshaw or taxi ride to the market.

• Bandra Station: Get off at Bandra Station, which is the closest railway station to Linking Road. From there, it’s a 4.6 km rickshaw or taxi ride to the market. You can also walk if you want, which takes about 15-20 minutes.

2. By Road: Linking Road is well-connected to other major roads and can be accessed via taxis, rickshaws, or private vehicles.

• Taxi/Rickshaw: Taxis and autorickshaws are readily available throughout Mumbai. You can easily pick one to take you directly to Linking Road. Make sure to specify whether you want to go to the Bandra or Santacruz end of the Linking Road.

• Bus: Several buses have routes that pass through Linking Road. You can check the current bus routes and schedules.

3. By Metro: While the Metro stations in Mumbai are expanding, currently it does not have a direct stop at Linking Road. However, you can take the metro to the nearest station, which is Gondavali Metro Station, and then switch to a taxi or rickshaw.

4. By Car: If you’re driving, Linking Road is accessible via major roads like the Western Express Highway and SV Road. Parking can be a challenge, especially during peak hours, so look for designated parking areas or park at a nearby mall.

What to Eat? The Best Street Food of Linking Rd Market

After spending a whole day rummaging through thousands of clothes and footwear for hours in the market, food is the second most important thing you’ll need (first is patience).

Here are some amazing food joints near the market so you can stuff yourself with good food and conclude your shopping trip on a delicious note. 

1. Benne: Heritage Bangalore Dosa

South Indian food is best when it comes to travel outings; you should definitely try out their masala dosa.

Address — Shop no. 1, plot 85, TPS 3, Louis Bell Building, 16th Rd, opposite Shree Sagar, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050

Price — ₹83

2. Magnolia Bakery 

Honestly, no street food can compare to the freshly baked brownies and croissants; try some at the Magnolia Bakery. 

Address — No. F/862, CTS, Maqba Heights, Pali Rd, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050

Price — ₹661

3. Farmer Café 

Chocolate works wonders with just anything! But have you ever had it with avocados? Try the most popular chocolate avocado smoothie at Farmer Café.  

Address — Shop No. 1, Celeste Bldg, Plot No. 470, Kinchin CHS, 14th Rd, Khar, Khar West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400052

Price — ₹720

4. Bastian, Bandra 

Have a drink and chill at China Gate Bandra West, enjoying all kinds of Chinese and seafood you can imagine! 

Address — 2nd Floor, Tamang Niwas, 155, Waterfield Road, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050

Price — ₹725

Shopping Tips for Linking Road Market in Mumbai

Here are some useful shopping tips and tricks if you’re shopping for the first time in Mumbai’s Bandra Linking Road Market. 

1. The main clothing market starts from the KFC outlet, so ask the rickshaw driver to leave you there. 
2. I’ll advise you not to start shopping as soon as you enter the market; walk and explore a bit, since you’ll find even better collections and prices as you move deeper into the market. 
3. It’s always best to visit the market on weekdays instead of weekends; you’ll find less rush. 
4. If you’re visiting for the first time, bargain as much as you can, and don’t show them that you’re new in the city. 
5. Buy from street vendors, since they sell items for quite cheap prices. 
6. Don’t be rude to the street sellers; if you’re not getting the price you desire, just walk away. 
7. Although almost all shops accept UPI payments, still on the safe side, keep cash and change with you. 
8. Carry a large tote to the market to keep your stuff safe without straining your hands too much. 
9. The shopkeepers have kept the market clean and welcoming for the buyers, so make sure you don’t litter there. 

Tourist Places Near the Linking Road Market 

The total time you’ll need to explore the whole market is about 2–3 hours; after that, you have the whole day to explore the surroundings as much as you want! 

If you are new in the city, let me help you! Here are some amazing tourist places near the market that you can cover in a single day. 

1. Shree Ghanteshwar Hanuman Mandir (1.4 km) 
2. St. Andrew’s Auditorium (1.9 km)
3. Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount (3.7 km)
4. Bandra Bandstand (3.2 km)
5. Juhu Beach (4.7 km)

Final Words

You can shop for anything on the Fashion Street Bandra Linking Road Market, from clothes to daily toiletries and household necessities; everything is super cheap here and easily available. 

So what are you waiting for? Get your bag, bottle, sunglasses, and lots of time to explore the Linking Road market for as long as you want. 

P.S. I hope you’ve made your notes!