Mumbai can often be a sensory overload, but Dadar’s Flower Market is a place that takes a different approach to the same thought. Dadar often splits opinions because of how it’s a beautiful and cultural neighborhood, yet one of the most crowded areas in Mumbai. The railway station can be overwhelming and suffocating for anyone who isn’t used to Mumbai’s crowd or someone who might be claustrophobic.
It’s also a matter of perception because the street right outside the station is pretty rustic and not the most developed. But then, why do we ask you to experience the Dadar Flower Market? Here’s all you need to know about that.
How To Get To Dadar Flower Market?
Dadar is well-connected as it’s a major railway station in Mumbai. It’s connected to the city’s Western Line and Central Line. But above that, Dadar is also a common stop in the city for outstation trains. So once you reach Dadar’s local railway station, you have to head to Dadar West side’s exit, which will be the last platform of the Western Line. Once you exit, you’ll reach the famously chaotic Phool Market.
When Should You Visit Dadar Flower Market?
Barring a few national holidays, heavy rains and occasions where the city is on lockdown (you know what we’re talking about), the market is always open and running in full swing. Even more so during festivals.
The market operates between 4 am and 8 pm. The best time to visit the flower market would be right when it opens, and it’s a perfect opportunity for some bustling street photography. This is when you get to enjoy the sight of the market being set up and how even at 4 am, business never stops.
Why Should You Visit Dadar Flower Market?
Mumbai’s paradoxical nature can often be fascinating. Now, we’re not saying that the street outside the station is well-maintained or exquisite. But that’s where the beauty lies. Streets in poor conditions, which are littered and polluted by mankind, are being used to sell the most beautiful of flowers. It’s no secret that certain parts of the street are filthy, and they stink. Yet, it’s a humongous flower market that sells a variety of pretty flowers for a cheap price.
But that’s not the only reason to visit Dadar Flower Market. If you need flowers, buying them from here would be worth your while. Now, one thing you should keep in mind is that some flowers are seasonal and won’t always be available. But most of them are always available, and the price would depend on whether they are local or imported. Like the local jasmine, white lilies, roses, and marigolds will almost always be cheaper than the imported tulips or peonies.
From religious ceremonies and festivals to marriages, this market is at the heart of it all. And the heart of this market is what makes it interesting. Now we won’t lie to you, the unrelenting crowd won’t be welcoming at all, and bargaining is the general norm here. Not all sellers will be hospitable, but that’s a part of it. In essence, this experience might not be for everyone, and it’s not the easiest experience to admire or appreciate, but that’s why it’s interesting.
All in all, if you keep the cons aside, the Dadar Flower Market is worth visiting for a bunch of reasons, along with people watching in general. If you’re wondering what you could do after the 4 am trip to the market, read our blog on experiencing Sunrise and Sunset in Mumbai.
FAQs
Is Dadar Safe?
Yes, Dadar is quite a safe city. It’s so crowded that you’re unlikely to ever be walking on desolate streets!
How Dadar Got Its Name?
Dadar is said to have got its name from a set of stairs built near where the railway station is now.
Is Dadar A Town?
Dadar is a major neighborhood within Mumbai City and also among the most populated.
How Far Is Bandra From Dadar?
Bandra is about 7 km away from Dadar. There’s road and regular train connectivity between the two places.
What Is Dadar Famous For?
Dadar Flower Market – Right after you get off at the west side of Dadar Railway Station, you’ll be in the Phool Market. The aroma and colors of the flowers would be an absolute sensory attack!
Shivaji Park – If you’re looking for a place to stretch your legs or just relax, then look no further than Shivaji Park. The nearby Narali Baug and Chaitya Bhoomi (Dr BR Ambedkar’s memorial) are worth visiting too.
Food – When in Dadar, street food is easy to come by, and delicious too! Try out Ashok Vada Pav near Kirti College, Kailash Lassi near the railway station (on the east side), and if you want to relish Persian cuisine, visit the Light of Bharat!
What Does Dadar Mean?
The name Dadar means ‘ladder’ or ‘staircase’ that connects Parel with Mahim.
How Many Dadar Stations Are There?
Dadar has 15 railway station platforms with 7 on the Western Line and 8 on the Central Line. Long-distance express trains halt here too.
Why Is Churchgate Called So?
Churchgate got its name from the St Thomas Cathedral near the railway station, and the ‘gate’ refers to a gate near Flora Fountain that used to be the southern boundary of the city. The gate was later removed, but the name stuck!
Is Dadar A Part Of South Mumbai?
Yes, Dadar is a part of South Mumbai, which extends all the way from Colaba to Mahim.
Is Juhu A Suburb?
Yes, the upmarket neighborhood of Juhu comes under the Mumbai Suburban District.
