Special appreciate to dear Mehta Sir ❤️.
As I stepped into the antique store in Udaipur, I was immediately transported back in time. The air was filled with a faint scent of aged wood and history, creating an atmosphere of nostalgia and wonder. The dim lighting accentuated the beauty of the artifacts, casting delicate shadows on the intricate carvings and ornate designs.
Each corner of the store was a treasure trove, filled with exquisite pieces from different eras. I marveled at the collection of vintage jewelry, their gemstones gleaming under the soft lights. The ancient sculptures and statues, each telling a unique story, captivated my imagination. I couldn't help but run my fingers gently over the weathered surfaces, feeling the texture of history beneath my fingertips.
One of the highlights was a beautifully crafted chest, adorned with detailed inlays and brass fittings. I could almost hear the whispers of the past as I admired its craftsmanship. The shopkeeper, an elderly gentleman with a wealth of knowledge, shared fascinating tales about each piece, adding depth to my experience.
The visit was not just about admiring the antiques; it was a journey through time, a chance to connect with the rich cultural heritage of Udaipur. The ambiance, the stories, and the beauty of the artifacts made this visit an unforgettable moment, leaving me with a deep appreciation for the timeless artistry preserved within the walls of that...
Read moreI would recommend Ashoka Arts as the ONLY place in Udaipur for buying artwork and handicrafts. They had fair pricing unlike other shops, with miniature paintings beginning from Rs 50. It is actually an art school as well, and they conduct art classes for visitors too. I really wish we had discovered this shop earlier, before we were looted by other handicraft shops. They have prices printed on their products, and don't charge extra for foreigners (unlike most shops here) - they are very ethical. We entered at 10pm when they were closing, but Mr Akshay not only kept the shop open for the next 1.5hrs, but also explained the nature and variations of painting styles in great detail, and we could appreciate the art even more because of that. The best part is they were not aggressive or pushy in making us buy from them. They have a great collection of wall hangings, purses and cushion covers as well, all locally made. They also made sure we got transport to our hotel, when there were no Uber or Auto rickshaws available at that hour. We came with the intention of buying 1 painting, but left with at least 10 items :) Visiting Ashoka Arts was one of the highlights of our trip, and their hospitality is extremely...
Read moreThe shop to go in Udaipur. The owners have done a huge effort to price-mark all the items. Bargaining is not an option but the prices are so competitive that will always be cheaper on what you can get elsewhere. And by not having to deal with the bargaining and pushing to buy, the experience is much more enjoyable. Is the shop to go by domestic visitors, and there are good reasons for it. The owners are very warm, polite, chill and trustworthy. They are making a genuine effort to change the customer experience in Udaipur in their shop but also trying to convince other owners to follow up the same approach.
We were looking for a specific artwork which was being sold in other four shops for a starting price between 2-3 of what was being sold in Ashoka Arts. In Ashoka we bought it at the real and reasonable market price, with no need to bargain.
Highly...
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