Enter a vibrant, bustling location that embodies the free-spirited atmosphere of Goa; welcome to the world-renowned Anjuna Flea Market, Goa. This marketplace is more than just a market; this is a sensory overload and possibly the last remaining evidence of the 1960s hippie era. What you can enjoy is an open-air market with hundreds of stalls, nestled under the canopy of swaying coconut trees, with an inviting aroma of incense, tempting street food, and a live band as a backdrop.
You can enjoy how the tie-die fabric dances in the wind as the cymbals and jingles of silver jewelry act as a soundtrack to life’s possibilities. You will indeed find everything you wanted, and a thousand things you did not know you wanted. Most importantly, you will enjoy the experience of being a part of the encounter, and the culture of the bohemian lifestyle that is a signature of North Goa.
A Shopper’s Paradise: Things to Do & Buy
No trip to the Anjuna Flea Market, Goa, is complete without a definitive shopping spree. You’ll find endless unique items in this veritable shopping paradise. Bargain and hone your bargaining skills while you’re at it! As you stroll through each stall, you’ll discover an astounding range of items. You’ll want to shop bohemian style, including flowing skirts, crop tops, and the classic harem pants.
You’ll want to shop for beautiful silver jewelry and accessories, semi-precious stones, and funky jewelry. You’ll want to check out the items made of leather or home decor like dreamcatchers, lamps, and Tibetan handicrafts. You should also note, as in most of India, that bargaining is to be expected rather than frowned upon. For best results, offer a price that is roughly 50% below that of the seller’s price, and bargaining with a smile will yield the best results on your favorite souvenirs.
More Than Shopping: Activities & Cultural Beats
Shopping may be the main attraction, but the market offers so much else that keeps visitors entertained. You might get a fun henna tattoo or a “fake” tattoo by a talented ink artist. A lot of families and vendors alike take the opportunity to get their hair braided with beads to get into the full hippie vibe.
When you need a break from shopping, follow your nose to the food stalls that capture tastes from around the world. Imagine Israeli falafel and hummus, German sausages, and tons of Chinese and Goan food! You can sit on makeshift benches, eat your food, and enjoy live music that is usually provided by our column of local and travelling musicians.
Sunset & Socials: The Transition into Nightlife
By the start of the evening, the Anjuna Flea Market, Goa can only be described as magical. It’s a great place to grab some souvenirs, but once you lift your head up from the shopping frenzy you paid for, it is a more social and relaxed setting, allowing for some great people watching. The market doesn’t normally become a post – clubbing zone, but it is the perfect atmosphere for pre-drinking.
Just grab an ice cold Kingfisher beer or cocktail from one of the many bars from the surrounding shops, and you’re good to go. With live music on-going, the fairy lights bright, it is a a great place to chill with friends, trade travel stories, and plan the plan the remainder of your night out in Anjuna which is famous for it’s beach shacks and trance parties.
Interesting Facts: The History Behind the Hustle
The background of this market is every bit as colourful as the stalls that line its paths. It was established in the 1960s by hippies who sold their possessions, later to find a way to fund their extended stay in Goa, establishing a community bazaar. This is also the history behind its bohemian vibe and alternative edge – it is genuinely bohemian and not just another commercial market.
Back then, it was a genuine point of barter practice where traders relied on goods alone to trade. Cash is equally as common as barter today, but you will also find a flavour of the eclectic and interesting trade that would have happened a decade ago.
Understanding this historical context is a deepening experience to your visit, and connects you to all those generations of travelling souls that have transformed the market into the incredible Goan institution it is.
Location & How to Get There: Finding the Hippie Heartbeat
Where to begin this great day here in the amazing village of Anjuna in North Goa! The market is right next door to the incredible Anjuna Beach (hence a good location for a day to evening adventure!). The Anjuna Flea Market is on every Wednesday and absolutely transforms the village into a jam-packed go-to place!
The best way to reach the market is to rent a scooter or bike, it allows you to explore on your own terms. Alternatives include taking taxis or auto rickshaws from any major point in North Goa like Calangute, Baga or Mapusa. Just follow ‘the signs’ to the main parking area and, you’ll know you’ve arrived at the flea market when you see the sea of people and colourful tarpaulin roofs!