Laad Bazaar, Hyderabad

Laad Bazaar stretches across four roads and covers an area of one kilometer. Famous for its vibrant bangles and traditional items, the market has a history dating back to the Qutub Shahi and Nizam eras, making it a living heritage of the city. The name "Laad Bazaar" comes from "laad," meaning lacquer, a key material used in making the popular bangles.

There are several legends about the origin of Laad Bazaar. One attributes it to Ladli Begum, the wife of the sixth Nizam of Hyderabad, Mir Mehboob Ali Khan. Another traces it to Abdur Razzaq Laary, a Golconda army general, or to Lord Rippon, with "Lord Bazaar" eventually becoming "Laad Bazaar." Regardless of its origin, the charm of Laad Bazaar remains unmatched.

The market offers a wide range of colorful bangles, zari and embroidery works, sarees, traditional clothing, and semi-precious stones. Laad Bazaar pearls are also famous. Bargaining is essential here, and after some haggling, you’ll find prices surprisingly low.

Laad Bazaar is a bustling fair with everything from delicious food to bridal wear, sequinned skirts and bags, Hyderabadi pearls, and junk jewelry. You can enjoy a view from the top of Charminar before diving into the glittering Chudi Bazaar. Its proximity to both Charminar and Chowmahalla Palace adds to its appeal. The bazaar attracts around 500-600 foreign tourists daily, making it popular among both national and international visitors.