Pokhara’s relaxed lakeside charm is perfectly matched by its colorful local markets and vibrant street food scene. From Tibetan dumplings to buzzing bazaars, Indian travelers will love exploring these authentic local hotspots.
1. Lakeside Market
Why visit: The most famous shopping stretch in Pokhara, lined with curio shops, cafes, and casual food carts.
Highlights: – Handicrafts and pashmina – Momos and sweet corn – Views of Phewa Lake
Timing: 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Free; best explored on foot
2. Mahendrapul Market
Why visit: A busy shopping and food zone where locals shop for daily needs and grab quick eats on the go.
Highlights: – Affordable clothes and shoes – Thukpa and chowmein stalls – Traditional sweets
Timing: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Free entry; located in central Pokhara
3. Old Bazaar (Purano Bazaar)
Why visit: Historic trading hub with traditional architecture, spice markets, and ethnic food joints.
Highlights: – Spices and dried goods – Bara and aloo chaat – Cultural vibes
Timing: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry: Free; accessible by local taxi or bike
4. Tibetan Refugee Camp Market
Why visit: Great for handicrafts, woolen goods, and authentic Tibetan snacks like laphing and tingmo.
Highlights: – Handmade carpets – Tibetan jewelry – Laphing noodles and yak cheese
Timing: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free; located near Devi’s Fall
5. Chipledhunga Bazaar
Why visit: One of Pokhara’s oldest markets, filled with fabrics, local utensils, and quick street food bites.
Highlights: – Bargain fashion – Pani puri and sekuwa – Daily household goods
Timing: 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM
Entry: Free; close to Mahendrapul
6. Amarsingh Chowk Evening Food Stalls
Why visit: A local favorite for cheap, delicious food after dark — full of momo stalls and noodle corners.
Highlights: – Fried momos – Spicy noodle bowls – Fast service
Timing: 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM
Entry: Free; busiest between 6–8 PM
7. Srijana Chowk Market
Why visit: A growing urban hub with local vendors, supermarkets, and food carts serving everything from rolls to pakoras.
Highlights: – Street egg rolls – Masala fries – Small shops and mobile vendors
Timing: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Free; can get crowded in the evening
8. Bindhyabasini Temple Periphery
Why visit: Besides spiritual visits, this area has sweet shops, fruit stalls, and simple snack carts.
Highlights: – Traditional Nepali sweets – Fresh fruit juices – Temple prasad
Timing: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry: Free; perfect for morning market strolls
