Chalai - The Big Market in Thiruvananthapuram

An age-old shopping area, the Chalai Market in the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, sprawls over an area of 2 square kilometers. Though a narrow road with lanes joining it from either side, Chalai Market located near the East Fort, offers you almost everything you need. The market is known for commodities like fruits, vegetables, household items, jewellery, handicrafts, photo frames, perfumery, spices and more.

History
Towards the end of the 18th century, Raja Kesava Das, the Dewan of Travancore, established Chalai Market with an intention to make this bazaar a central point for the supply of commodities to the Travancore kingdom. For that, the Killi and the Karamana rivers nearby were used to carry goods from different parts.

Even though a crowded place, an evening walk through the hustle and bustle of this market is a pretty good experience as it offers some kind of nostalgic feeling, especially for the residents of Thiruvananthapuram City.

How to reach:
Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram Central, via Central Theater Rd, about 1 km
Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, National Highway 66, about 4 km.