Quick answer: Ghungroo anklets are silver anklets with small round bells that chime softly as you walk. Pick a bell count and size you are comfortable hearing all day, check the length against your ankle measurement, and choose sterling silver (92.5% pure silver) for a bright sound and a clean look.
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There is something very Indian about the sound of a payal. A faint chime from the next room, a soft jingle on a staircase, the little bells that announce a bride or a child running to the door. Ghungroo anklets carry that sound in a modern, wearable form. If you love the idea of an anklet that you can hear as well as see, this guide will help you choose one, size it, style it and keep it chiming for years. You can browse the full range of silver anklets any time, and the notes below will help you pick the right pair.
At a glance: silver ghungroo anklets
- What they are: anklets with small hollow bells, called ghungroo, attached along the chain or hanging in a cluster.
- Sound: a soft, light chime, more noticeable on a hard floor than on carpet.
- Best for: festivals, weddings, traditional outfits, dance practice and everyday wear if you enjoy the sound.
- Size tip: measure your ankle and add a little room so the bells swing freely.
- Care tip: keep the bells dry and wipe the silver with a soft cloth after wearing.
What does ghungroo mean?
Ghungroo is the Hindi word for a small bell, usually round and hollow with a tiny ball or pellet inside. When the bell moves, the pellet strikes the inner wall and makes the chime. Ghungroos are strongly connected with Indian classical dance forms, where dancers wear long strings of them around the ankles, and they also appear in everyday jewellery. In a silver anklet the bells are scaled down so that the piece feels light and comfortable instead of loud.
You will also see the same idea called payal with bells, chhan chhan payal or jingle anklets. All of them describe a chain with small bells, and the differences lie in the chain pattern, the number of bells and the finish.
Why silver suits ghungroo anklets
Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver mixed with a small amount of copper for strength. It is a classic choice for payals because silver has long been the traditional metal for anklets in India. It also gives a clear, bright tone to small bells and has a clean, cool shine that sits well against the skin. Tarnish, the grey or dark layer that silver can develop, is only a surface effect and wipes off, so a pair that has been stored for a while can look new again with a gentle clean.
Styles of silver ghungroo anklets
Classic chain with bells
A fine chain with small bells spaced at regular gaps is the most common design. It is easy to wear, light on the ankle and works with both traditional and western outfits. If you are buying your first pair, this is the safest choice.
Cluster bell payal
Here the bells hang in small groups or in a tiered pattern. The sound is a little fuller and the look is more festive. It suits sarees, lehengas and wedding functions.
Oxidised ghungroo anklets
The darker finish gives the bells an antique look. It pairs especially well with cotton, handloom and block print outfits. If you like this mood, look at oxidised picks across the store.
Bells with beads or charms
Some designs mix tiny bells with beads or small charms. They look playful and are popular for summer outfits, beach days and casual wear.
Single strand versus double strand
A single strand is delicate and minimal. A double strand adds more bells and more presence, and it can look striking with ethnic wear. If you wish to wear two anklets together, take a look at our post on traditional payal vs modern silver anklets for tips on balancing the look.
| Style | Sound level | Look | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic chain with bells | Soft | Light and simple | Daily wear, casual outfits |
| Cluster bell payal | Medium | Festive and full | Weddings, festivals |
| Oxidised ghungroo | Soft to medium | Antique and earthy | Handloom and cotton outfits |
| Bells with beads or charms | Soft | Playful | Summer, travel, casual wear |
| Double strand | Medium to strong | Statement | Special occasions |
How to choose the right size
A ghungroo anklet should rest comfortably at the ankle bone without pinching, and the bells should have room to swing. If the chain is too tight, the bells cannot move well and the sound becomes dull. If it is too loose, the anklet slides down toward the foot and can catch on straps or hems.
- Wrap a soft measuring tape or a thin strip of paper around your ankle just above the bone.
- Note the length and add a little room, usually about a centimetre or so, depending on how snug you like it.
- Compare the number with the length listed on the product page, and check whether the chain has an adjustable extension.
- Measure in the evening, when your feet are at their usual size.
Our detailed anklet size guide walks through the measuring steps with more examples, and it is worth a read before you order.
How loud are ghungroo anklets?
This is the question most buyers ask. Silver ghungroo anklets are usually much softer than the long dance strings, because the bells are tiny and there are fewer of them. On a tiled or marble floor you will hear a gentle chime with each step. On carpet, grass or while sitting you will hear very little. If you work in a quiet office or share a room with someone who sleeps lightly, choose a design with fewer or smaller bells, or save your payals for evenings and festivals.
Before you buy, look at the product description to see how many bells there are and how big they are. A pair with six or eight small bells will sound very different from one with twenty.
How to style ghungroo anklets
With sarees and lehengas
The anklet is almost hidden by a long hem, but the chime still adds to the festive feel. Choose a cluster bell design and wear it on both ankles for a balanced look. For wedding outfits, read our bridal payal guide.
With kurtas and palazzos
A classic chain with bells peeks out nicely under a straight pant or palazzo. Pair it with flat sandals or kolhapuris for an easy daily look.
With western outfits
A single strand with a few bells looks charming with cropped jeans, a midi skirt or a summer dress. Keep it to one anklet and let it be the only noticeable accessory at the ankle.
With toe rings
Anklets and toe rings are often worn together for a complete foot look. Explore silver toe rings to match the finish of your payal.
Matching the rest of your jewellery
- If you wear oxidised earrings, choose an oxidised anklet, and browse silver earrings to find a pair.
- Keep a necklace simple. A fine chain from silver necklaces will not compete with the sound and shine at your feet.
- Match metal tones. Silver anklets look best with silver jewellery, though a touch of colour from stones adds contrast. See silver rings for matching finger pieces.
Wearing ghungroo anklets every day
Many people enjoy wearing a light ghungroo anklet daily. A few habits make it more comfortable:
- Choose a fine chain and small bells so the anklet does not feel heavy.
- Make sure the clasp is secure and check it from time to time.
- Take it off before heavy workouts, swimming or sleeping if the bells bother you.
- Be careful around loose clothing and blankets, as the chain can snag.
Budget and gifting ideas
Ghungroo anklets are a lovely gift for a sister, a daughter, a friend or a new bride. If you are working to a budget, you can start with anklets under 1500 or step up to anklets under 3000 for more detailed designs. If you prefer a warm tone, see gold plated anklets. For presents, gifts for her brings together ideas for different occasions, and wedding has pieces for the big day.
Zalkari silver jewellery carries BIS registration HM/C-7791385109 and ships across India with cash on delivery. You get 5% off on online payment, and first time customers can use code WLC200 for Rs 200 off. To see what other customers pick often, check bestsellers.
Care guide for ghungroo anklets
The bells make care a little different from a plain chain, because water and polish can get trapped inside the hollow bells.
- Wipe the anklet with a soft dry cloth after each wear to remove sweat and dust.
- Avoid soaking the anklet in water or cleaning liquids, since moisture inside the bells can dull the sound.
- Keep it away from perfume, lotion and sunscreen, which can dull the shine.
- Store it flat or loosely coiled in a pouch so the chain does not tangle and the bells do not dent.
- If the silver darkens, use a soft silver polishing cloth and follow the steps in our guide on how to clean your anklets at home.
Buying checklist
- Read the length and any extension chain details.
- Count the bells and note their size.
- Check the finish, either polished or oxidised.
- Look at the clasp type and how secure it feels.
- Decide whether you want one anklet or a pair.
- Confirm the silver standard on the product page.
Frequently asked questions
What is a ghungroo anklet?
It is an anklet with small bells, called ghungroo, attached to the chain. The bells make a soft chime as you move.
Are silver ghungroo anklets noisy?
They are usually soft, especially compared with dance ghungroos. The sound depends on the number and size of the bells and on the floor you are walking on.
Can I wear a ghungroo anklet to office?
Yes, if you choose a design with few, small bells and you are comfortable with the gentle sound. Otherwise keep it for evenings and weekends.
How do I clean a payal with bells?
Wipe it with a soft cloth and use a silver polishing cloth for tarnish. Avoid soaking it, because water can stay inside the bells.
Which ankle should I wear it on?
Wear it on whichever ankle feels more natural, or on both. There is no rule about comfort, so choose what you like.
Will the bells fall off?
Well made bells are firmly attached, but check the anklet from time to time and avoid pulling on the chain.
Final thoughts
A ghungroo anklet is one of the few pieces of jewellery that you can enjoy with your ears as well as your eyes. Choose a size that lets the bells move, a bell count that suits the places you will wear it, and keep the silver dry and clean. If you are putting together a festive look, also browse silver pendants and gods to finish the set.