The Georgetown Bazaar Walk

What this tour is about: On this tour, we explore the busy neighbourhood of Georgetown. This area consists of well-established specialised bazaars, with small winding streets, warehouses, covered wholesale markets, street stalls and retail shops.

Originally called ‘Black Town’, the area came up in the late 1600s after the founding of Fort St. George. Local people settled here to trade and do business with the fort. A portion of Black Town was flattened in the 1700’s, to provide an open area outside Fort St George. The residents of Blacktown re-settled just beyond the open area, in what was called New Black Town.

In the mid 1800’s, the open area (old Black Town) was used to construct the grand building of Madras High Court. In 1910, when King George visited India, Blacktown was renamed Georgetown. Today Georgetown continues to be a busy market area, selling everything under the sun: bangles, fabrics, fruits, vegetables, spices, stationery, jewellery, etc.

Tour Start Point: Entrance to Armenian Church
Tour End Point: King George Statue, opposite Flower Bazaar Police Station

Tour Route: Armenian Church – NSC Bose Road - High Court – Stationery Market – Fruit and Vegetable Market – Flower Market – Kasi Chetty Street and side lanes – King George Statue. Please note we will not be entering the churches, temples or the High Court premises.

Duration: 2 hours, all days of the week. Ideal in the evenings. Offered in the mornings also in winter.

Tour Notes: Please dress modestly and ensure you take permission if you are photographing people. Some people do not like it, but some will allow it. Please do not attempt to pay or tip people for allowing photography. Please note there are no toilets in this area, not even in the cafes.

Cost:
INR 1050 per person for 7-10 persons
INR 1350 per person for 5-6 persons
INR 1750 per person for 3-4 persons
INR 2150 per person for 2 persons
INR 3750 for a solo traveler

Includes: Knowledgeable guide, snacks at a local cafe and all taxes.

Excludes: Transport, tips, entrances.

If you need pick-up/drop from your hotel, please let us know and we can arrange it at additional cost.