Mumbai: Top Ten Places for Kids Shopping

There is no dearth of places to shop in India and Mumbai is its fashion capital. There is a great variety of clothing, accessories, toys, books for kids and here’s our guide on some of the best places to find them:

Hobby Ideas, Kemp’s Corner:

For kids that are into their arts and crafts, The Hobby Stores are kind of a paradise. They call themselves “India’s first Craft % Hobby Store” and whether or not they are doesn’t matter. What doesn’t matter is that they have everything from beads to calligraphy to stickers to whatchumacallits all under one roof. Kids can spend hours browsing or if you are able, attend one of their workshops for more fun.

Crossword Books Store, Kemp’s Corner:

Just next door to Hobby Idea is Crosswords. This chain of bookstores has a great range of books for the avid reader, but their kids’ section at the back is particularly inspiring with a huge sign welcoming you to “Hogwarts Express”. Here you will find books distributed by age and popular titles such as Dr. Seuss and Dora, as well as local favorites like Amar Chitra Katha (every Indian kid grows up on these comics based on Indian mythology). You will also find a host of DVDs and activity books. Take a load off from all these intellectual pursuits by grabbing a snack at the Moshés Cafe upstairs.

Landmark Bookshop, Phoenix Mills:

They call this a bookshop but it’s more like a department store. Books, DVDs, CDs, a huge section dedicated to video games, a toy section and the largest kids’ book section I have seen in Mumbai. There’s even a little toy train in the toy department that the kids can play on while you browse, in addition to a ton of bikes, cars and other items on display to try. We are particularly partial to the large collection of Enid Blyton books.

OmVed:

This is a very special store for babies. Specializing in “natural living” OmVed’s baby products are made of the softest organic bamboo cotton with beautiful Indian prints and motifs. They have onesies, blankets, swaddles, pillows, and much more. I actually bought five of the same baby blankets from here, for all my friends with new babies. No exaggeration. You can also choose from their beautiful collection of baby toiletries including body washes, lotions, massage oils and special products for new mums. For older kids, you can buy from eco-themed organic t-shirts (their sizing is a bit funny so make sure to look at them before you buy). You will pay for quality so don’t expect discount shopping here but it is totally worth it.

Premsons Bazaar, Breach Candy:

Before international standard malls and department stores hit Mumbai, people had Premsons. It’s a bit of a culture shock but there’s no better place to get “local” kids’ stuff like toys, Indian clothes, baby supplies (Pampers, Pigeon products), bangles, bindis, hair clips, etc. (Another alternative is Colaba Causeway where the stores are harder to find). You’ll get tons of items themed with your favorite character but beware that they are usually made in China and not the safest plastic quality. Great for fun, inexpensive things.

FabIndia:

This chain of ethnic clothing stores has a wonderful selection of kurtas for adults and kids, in addition to shawls, dupattas, pants, and bags. Some of the larger stores carry a full range of furniture, bedspreads and lighting. Recently they also launched a range of foods, spices and condiments as well as toiletries. Reasonably priced and great for gifts as well.

Neemrana Boutique:

For exclusive handmade chikan clothing and kurtas, Neemrana is where those in the know go. You’ll pay for the beautiful silks and cottons but be blown away by the beautiful work and colors. Kids sizes too, and you won’t find this stuff anywhere else in Mumbai. For the uber-trendy, buy a couple of georgette kurtis to wear as a cover-up on the beach. This is where Barney’s and Neiman get their inspiration, and you’ve have it a fraction of the price.

Just Moms:

If you are looking for baby supplies, everything from well-known brands of medications, toiletries (including sunblock), bottles, diapers, car seats, clothes and toys, this is the place to go to. The owner, Vikas, is particularly knowledgeable which may be a comfort to you if you are feeling a bit overwhelmed by India.

Mothercare:

The UK-based international chain Mothercare set up shop in India a few years ago and has been a godsend to eager new mums looking for high-quality clothing, car seats, toiletries, furniture and nursing and maternity gear. This is particularly for people from the States as Mothercare has a presence in Europe, Australia and other parts of Asia. If you have an infant, I especially recommend the multi-packs of onesies in sleeveless, short-sleeved or long-sleeved options that serve as a great basic under  everything.

Hamley’s:

I wasn’t going to include Hamley’s but there is truly no list of kid’s shopping stores that is complete without Hamley’s if it is an option. In Mumbai, it is at High Street Phoenix (as are many good things). Hamley’s is one of the most prestigious toy stores in the world. with its own range of toys, games, and arts and crafts. A must-stop if Hamley’s isn’t present in your country.