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Traditional markets are a good places for tourists to learn about local culture. In the traditional market, there are many kinds of traditional foods and drinks, local residents and speak in local languages. When you are in Penang, take your time to visit the Chowrasta Market. It is located at Lebuh Tamil Road, George Town, Penang. The market opens from 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The name Chowrasta comes from the Indian language चौक रास्ता (chauk raasta) which means city park. The word chowk itself is commonly found in various markets in cities in India. The word Chowrasta also means four crossroads in Urdu. The use of Indian language in this market is related with history that in the mid 19th century, the area was inhabited by many Tamil tribes from South India. The Chowrasta market building was first established in 1890 by the Commissioners of the Municipality of George Town - the precursor of the Pulau Pinang Perblisaran, MPPP. In 1961 the buildings of the Chowrasta market were demolished and built new. The building that we see until now. As the oldest market in Penang, the Chowrasta market is one of tourist destination. Tourist come to Chowrasta market because easy to reach, clean market, sell many things, offer cheaper price and safe. Seller can speak Malay, Chinese and English, so don't have to worry about communication with them. Many buses stop at stops located in front of the market. You can take buses numbers 10.11, 101, 103, 104, 201, 202, 203, 204, 206, 502 and the CAT Shuttle bus (Central Area Transit, which in 2018, the CAT changed to the abbreviation of Congestion Alleviation Transport). CAT Shuttle Bus is free of shuttle service that you can take. Tourist can reach Chowrasta market easIly. Although the traditional market is crowded with visitors and traders, all shanties are neatly arranged, both inside the building and on the edge of the road. The market looks clean and no trash. So visitors feel comfortable to walk around teh market. Various items and foods are available in here. From raw food ingredients (such as vegetables, meat and fruits)to prepared meals. You can also have a culinary tour at the Chowrasta market. There are many foods such as various noodles, vermicelli and dim sum, pork floss. Food that is influenced by Chinese and Malay culture. When you want to buy souvenirs, it is available too. There are various kinds of souvenirs (key chains, t-shirts, wall hangings, magnetic fridge, book marker and others). There are even plant sellers. In traditional market, the price is cheaper than items in the store. The price in each seller is the same, so you do not have to bargain. Just choose which items you like. It can be said that the price is 30% cheaper than prices in most stores. You can save your money. It is safe market. Although the market is always crowded, or even a little bit jostling, but there are no pickpockets or snatches. Even so, it would be nice for you to remain careful. It is a good idea to put the Chowrasta market in your itinerary when you visit Penang. Even as a place to enjoy breakfast in the morning before visit other tourist attractions.