The lanes branching off Paharganj's Main Bazaar are lined with small shops selling handicrafts, fabrics, cushion covers, pashminas, silver jewellery, and export-surplus clothing aimed at the international traveller market. While quality is mixed and persistent salesmanship can be tiring, patient shoppers can find genuine Indian textiles and craft items at fair prices — substantially cheaper than the tourist shops near major monuments.
The Multani Dhanda lane in particular is worth exploring for fabrics and embroidered textiles. Early morning is the best time to shop before the heat and crowds build up. Always compare prices across several shops and be prepared to walk away — the opening price is rarely the best price available.