Murree, the hill station nestled in the lush green hills of Pakistan’s northern areas, is not just a popular tourist destination for its natural beauty but also for its vibrant shopping scene. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs to take home, traditional clothing, or unique handicrafts, Murree offers plenty of opportunities to shop while enjoying the cool, fresh mountain air. This guide will take you through the best places to shop in Murree for an unforgettable retail experience.
1. Mall Road: The Heart of Shopping in Murree
Mall Road Market
The heart of Murree’s shopping scene is undoubtedly Mall Road, a bustling street filled with a variety of shops, cafes, and eateries. This is the main area where both locals and tourists flock to explore and shop for everything from handicrafts to traditional clothing. You’ll find everything from woolen garments to shawls, stoles, and traditional Pakistani fabrics in stores along Mall Road. The shops here also offer a variety of wooden souvenirs, handmade jewelry, and beautifully crafted home decor. If you’re looking for some mementos to remember your trip by, Mall Road is the ideal place to start your shopping journey.
Murree Mall
For those who prefer a more modern shopping experience, Murree Mall is a popular destination. Located on Mall Road, this shopping mall features an array of retail outlets, selling everything from clothing and footwear to gadgets and accessories. Woolen sweaters, jackets, and scarves are some of the most popular items that shoppers look for, making it the perfect place to gear up for the chilly weather in the mountains.
2. Patriata (New Murree) Market: A Scenic Shopping Experience
Patriata Market
If you venture a little further into the area known as New Murree, also called Patriata, you’ll find a unique market that offers a variety of local products and souvenirs. Patriata is famous for its scenic beauty and the chairlift ride that offers breathtaking views, but it also has a small yet vibrant market. The shops here sell handicrafts, woolen items, and traditional Pakistani textiles. You can also find hand-carved wooden items and stone sculptures that make great souvenirs to take home.
Patriata Souvenir Shops
In addition to the local shops, Patriata Souvenir Shops sell traditional shawls, handmade scarves, and wooden carvings, perfect for gifting or keeping as a memento. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the beautiful natural surroundings make shopping in Patriata a delightful experience.
3. Kashmir Point: Shopping with a View
Kashmir Point Bazaar
Kashmir Point is one of the most popular tourist spots in Murree, known for its panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The area also features a charming bazaar where you can shop for local handicrafts, woolen clothes, and home decor items. The shops here offer a wide range of woolen shawls, blankets, and sweaters to keep you warm during the colder months. It’s a great spot to pick up some traditional souvenirs, and the amazing views make the shopping experience even more memorable.
4. Mall Road Extension: Hidden Gems and Local Crafts
Local Handicrafts Shops
If you’re looking for something more authentic and unique, the Mall Road Extension area offers a variety of local handicrafts that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Murree and the surrounding regions. From hand-painted ceramics to woven baskets, carved wooden figures, and local woolen fabrics, this area is full of hidden gems for anyone looking to bring home a piece of Murree’s cultural charm. The shops here often feature traditional Pakistani textiles and handcrafted home décor that you won’t easily find elsewhere.
Artisan Shops
Additionally, the artisan shops on Mall Road Extension offer a selection of handmade jewelry and wooden artwork, including chess sets, tables, and hand-carved figurines. These unique and beautifully crafted items are perfect for collectors or anyone who appreciates fine craftsmanship.
5. The Local Wool Shops: Get Cozy with Murree’s Woolens
Murree Woolen Market
As the weather in Murree can get chilly, especially in the winter months, Murree Woolen Market is a must-visit for anyone looking to buy warm clothing. The market offers a vast selection of woolen sweaters, cardigans, shawls, scarves, and blankets. These locally produced woolen items are a perfect way to stay warm during your trip or as thoughtful gifts for loved ones back home. Many of the woolen products are handcrafted by local artisans, ensuring you are buying something truly unique.
Woolen Accessories
Along with clothing, you can find an assortment of woolen accessories like mittens, socks, and hats. These items are perfect for keeping cozy during the colder months or as gifts to bring a piece of Murree back home. Woolen products from Murree are known for their quality and warmth, making them a favorite shopping choice for visitors.
6. Unique Souvenir Shops in Murree
Traditional Souvenirs and Crafts
If you want to bring home a piece of Murree’s unique charm, souvenir shops scattered across the town sell local handicrafts, hand-painted pottery, brass items, and traditional musical instruments. These shops offer a wide range of products that represent the local culture and are great mementos of your visit to Murree.
Wooden Items and Carvings
One of the specialties of Murree is wooden carvings, and you can find beautifully crafted wooden frames, keychains, clocks, and sculptures in many of the souvenir shops. These make for meaningful gifts and souvenirs, representing the local craftsmanship and artistry of Murree.