PALGHAR

Kelva Beach in Palghar district is a favored spot for weekend getaways, celebrated for its expansive sandy shoreline and picturesque scenery. Unlike bustling city centers, Kelva does not have a large, unified market space; instead, visitors encounter a selection of small local markets and numerous vendors, especially on weekends and holidays, catering to the needs and interests of tourists.

The area does not feature a large, formal market, but is characterized by a vibrant mix of local vendors and temporary stalls that set up along the beach, creating a lively and informal market environment. Tourists can enjoy local Maharashtrian snacks such as vada pav, misal pav, bhajiyas, coconut water, and fresh seafood, which are available from small eateries and food stalls scattered along the beach. During busy times, additional vendors appear, offering beachwear, toys, hats, and handmade souvenirs. Surrounding villages add to the market scene by supplying agricultural produce such as coconuts, betel leaves, and bananas, which can often be found at roadside or beachside stands. Kelva’s proximity to fishing communities also means that fresh seafood is widely available, both at the beach and in neighboring fish markets such as Satpati Port, which is known for its energetic commerce and export activity. The market atmosphere at Kelva Beach tends to be more pronounced on weekends and public holidays, providing visitors not only with shopping opportunities but also a sense of the local coastal lifestyle. Although this market experience is casual and seasonal, it offers a unique glimpse into life on the Maharashtra coast, with authentic local foods and crafts as its highlights.

Kudus Market is known for its supply of non-perishable goods, including onions, garlic, ginger, dry snacks, furniture, vegetables, and whole spices. Buyers often purchase onions in bulk (typically 50–60 kg) to store for the year. The market usually begins in the second week of May or when prices fall, enabling cost-effective bulk buying. Sellers stay on-site for about a month, and the market shuts with the first rainfall in June.

Manor Market is one of the rare places where the barter system is still in use. People, including members of the indigenous community, trade items they no longer need in exchange for useful goods. Buyers can bring an object and negotiate a direct swap with sellers. This traditional form of exchange is seldom seen in contemporary markets.

The Naigaon and Arnala Fish Markets are well-known across Mumbai and the surrounding districts for their seafood supply. A variety of fish, including shrimp, pomfrets, squid, and sturgeon, are available, with ghol fish sometimes fetching over ₹20,000 for four whole fish. Many large restaurants source their seafood from these markets. Located on the outskirts of Naigaon, the market is positioned away from residential areas to manage the strong smell of fish. The Koli community primarily runs the operations at both markets.

Situated along the main road within the Vajreshwari village, Vajreshwari Market traces its origins to the Peshwa era. Locals say it developed after Chimaji Appa’s (a military commander and statesman of the Maratha empire) conquest of Vasai Fort from the Portuguese, following which he fulfilled a vow to build a Mandir for Vajreshwari Devi. The market gradually formed around the Mandir and remains active to this day.