Before Kolkata's floating market, did you know about these 2 floating markets of India?

Floating markets essentially came into existence as a means of sustenance for riverside communities. This clearly explains the genesis of such markets in Thailand, where most communities were built on the sides of the river.

Later, the concept of floating markets spread in the neighbouring countries, including Indonesia, Myanmar, Vietnam and India too.

Floating markets in India may not be a common feature and it is perhaps their rarity that eventually turned them into popular tourists attractions as well.

Kolkata is now the  latest into the list of floating-market destinations. The city is gearing up for a proud display of a unique floating market on its water front, near Patuli area, in January next year.

But did you know that this won't be the first-ever floating market in India? In fact, there are two other floating markets, that are, interestingly, located on either ends of the country. So, while you await the opening of Kolkata's floating market, let us take you through the two that our country is already proud of:

1. Dal Lake floating market, Srinagar

One need not reiterate the picturesque beauty of the Dal Lake, with the beautiful shikaras (boats) leaving ripples against the heavenly mountainous backdrop. What also adds to its charm is the famous floating vegetable market that, till now, has been deemed the only one of its kind in India and the second in the world, according to the official website of Jammu and Kashmir Tourism.

There are no permanent shops on the lake; it is an old, makeshift market that conducts the sale and purchase of vegetables, between 5 am and 7 am every day. Most of the vegetables are grown on the lakeside.

2. Floating mall on Kerala backwaters

Amidst the serene allure of the backwaters in 'God's Own Country, Kerala, you will also find a floating shopping mall in the low-lying Kuttanadu area of the Alapuzha district.

Called the Floating Triveni Super Store, the mall sells items ranging from grains to television sets, at subsidised rates, according to reports by The Hindu.

Besides catering to local villagers, the floating mall is also a major tourist attraction in the area.

The mall is open from 8 am to 6 pm and allows 20 people on board at a time for safety reasons.

And you thought, floating markets are only in Thailand!. So, are you looking an international or domestic this time?