Have you ever passed down streets in which there are fresh fruits, colourful stuff, and ancient ornaments jumbled together? It is the Crawford market in Mumbai. It feels like the city itself. Crawford Market (also known officially as Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Mandai) is popular with both local and foreign visitors seeking bargains, fresh fruit and vegetables, and relics in the marketplace.
Every street is a story, whether it is a pet shop or spice street, a wholesale shop or street food stand. Crawford Market is a collection of surprises, whether it is the souvenirs that you purchase or the old Bombay charisma you soak in. This guide will demonstrate to you where it is and what time you will find it, where to go near it, and all that you can anticipate seeing when you go there.
History & Heritage of Crowford Market Mumbai
In India of that time, Crawford Market was constructed under British rule and completed between 1869 and 1871 as one of the major trading centres. It was named after Arthur Crawford, who was the early municipal commissioner of Mumbai and changed its name to Mahatma Phule Mandai in honour of the social reformist Jotirao Phule. It was designed by architect William Emerson, combining Norman, Victorian, and local architectural styles, and features oversized skylights that allow light to enter the building. It was the first Indian electricity-lit market. Crawford Market expanded with time to be more than a vegetable and fruit market to include pet shops, imported goods, decorations, and much more.
What is Crawford Market Famous For
There are a lot of things for which the Crowford Market is renowned. A few of them are:
1. Fresh Produce & Variety
From fruits, vegetables, chicken, and rare imports to chocolates, everything is there.
2. Pet Section
Mumbai has only a small number of markets that have pet shops. One may purchase birds, fish, and small animals here.
3. Architecture & Heritage
The ancient architecture has hewn panels by John Lockwood Kipling and Gothic influences. It is a hangout place for photographers.
4. Specialised Lanes
There is typically a specialisation in each lane, and one of them specialises in flowers, lighting, stationery, spices and so on.
5. Cultural Experience
It is more than shopping. Vendors calling, bargaining, tasting local snacks, and sightseeing; you can see all those.
Things to See at Crawford Market, Mumbai
A few things that you should not miss exploring while in the Crowford Market include:
1. Flower Lane
The Flower Lane is an area that is colourful in garlands, vases and floral decorations. The scent is full of flowers, and the scenery is bright.
2. Lohar Chawl (Lighting Lane)
This lane will contain shops that contain lights, lamps, ceiling lights, fairy lights and lamp shades. Good for individuals who enjoy the interior appearance of their homes.
3. Mirchi Galli (Spice Lane)
Vendors of all sorts of stuff, including local chilli and exotic powders, abound in the Spice Lane. It is a feast for the nose.
4. Pet Shop Section
Here, you can find birds, rabbits, fish tanks, and pet products. Be careful and gentle with the animals.
5. Imported Goods & Chocolates
There are outlets that deal with foreign chocolates and cheeses, among other imported goods that are hard to find in regular shops.
Crawford Market Timings
If you’re visiting the Crowford market, knowing about its timings can be really helpful.
The majority of the shops start to open at about 9:00-10:30 AM and end at about 8:00 PM.
Some argue that the market opens at 11:00 am and closes at 8:00 pm when dealing in retail parts.
Many parts of the market are closed on Sundays or part of Sundays.
Certain sections might have their hours terminated too soon, or their hours are variable.
It has been found that most shops shut down or work a few hours on Tuesdays.
The early morning is the most appropriate time to go, as the produce is fresh and there are fewer people.
Crawford Market Location & Direction
If you’re wondering, ‘Where is the Crawford Market in Mumbai?’ Well then, it is located in South Mumbai, barely north of CST and close to Dhobi Talao and Mohammed Ali Road. It is also known as Mahatma Phule Mandai. The Crawford Market direction is facing the Mumbai Police Headquarters and is near the JJ Flyover station.
How to Reach Crawford Market:
By Train: Get out at CST or Masjid Bunder. From there, it will be a short walk or local taxi ride to the market.
By Road: On road, you are dropped by BEST buses/taxi near Dhobi Talao or Zaveri Bazaar. There are areas in South Mumbai where auto rickshaws are prohibited.
By foot: Whoever remains close to CST, Kala Ghoda, or Fort can walk to the Crawford Market along old heritage lanes.
Places To Visit Near Crawford Market
The market is literally located in the centre of South Mumbai, and it is surrounded by some of the most recognisable places in the city. There are beautiful architectures, art galleries and places that are calm and quiet and are just a few minutes walk or even by a very short cab ride that reveal the true beauty of Mumbai. These are some of the places that you cannot afford to visit when in Crawford Market:
1. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus CST
The CST is part of the UNESCO World Heritage, and it is also among the most famous railway stations in the city of Mumbai, situated only a 5-minute walk away from Crawford Market. Its Gothic design, coloured windows in stained glass, as well as domed turrets, make it a site to visit.
Distance: 500 meters
2. Marine Drive
Want to relax at the end of a long shopping session? Stop at Marine Drive, only a 10-15-minute drive. The ocean breeze, panoramic Arabian Sea and the dawn of the sunset make it the ideal spot to rest on the completion of a trip around Crawford Market, Mumbai. You will be able to get a snack from a local seller and see the lights of Queen Necklace at night.
Distance: 3.5 km
3. Gateway of India
The Gateway of India is a well-known landmark of Mumbai that is situated close to Colaba; it is approximately 15 minutes away from Crawford Market. It overlooks the Arabian Sea, offers the most frequented photo sessions, a ferry ride, and street food places. There is also the legendary Taj Mahal Palace Hotel right across.
Distance: 4.5 km
4. Flora Fountain & Fort Area
A walk through the old Fort area will discover marvellous colonial-type architecture, the renowned Flora Fountain and several cafes and bookstores. This is a wonderful neighbourhood where one is easily entertained by the architecture, history, and taking a leisurely walk following a visit to Crawford Market.
Distance: 1.5 km
5. Colaba Causeway Market
When you liked the shopping atmosphere in Crawford, you will find Colaba Causeway next on your list! Being famous with fashionable accessories, apparel and souvenirs, it is a heaven for street shoppers. There are also some friendly cafes, such as Leopold and Cafe Mondegar, close by.
Distance: 5 km
Tips for Visiting
Some tips that will help you have the best experience while visiting the market are given below.
Visit early in the morning to obtain the freshest produce and fewer people.
Keep cash since most of the small vendors might not accept cards.
Shops are supposed to be bargained appropriately.
Be careful with pet shops, observe hygiene, and be gentle with the animals.
Wear comfortable footwear; the lanes of the market are very narrow and crowded.
Unless you want to get robbed, make sure you carry your bag with you; pick-pocketing can occur during a busy marketplace.
You cannot miss the pretty architecture, see the skylights, carvings and old stonework.
Conclusion
Crawford Market is not just a market to visit, but it is a breathing component of the heart and history of Mumbai. It has wholesale food stalls, spice stalls, pet stores and historic buildings in the Crawford market. Every corner tells a story. It is a place where you will be awestruck, regardless of whether you are going to get fruits, chocolates, spices, decoration, or just the chaotic appeal of the place. Having the idea of its hours, location and what to see, you can make your visit to Mumbai a rewarding walk through its past and present. Take a camera, an empty bag, and curiosity, and you will find Crawford Market fascinating.
