Shimla’s lively markets and tempting street food stalls bring together the flavors, colors, and charm of this hill town. From wooden souvenirs in Lakkar Bazaar to spicy chaats near Mall Road, exploring these local spots is as rewarding as sightseeing. Here are the top places where culture meets craving.
1. Lakkar Bazaar
Why visit: Famous for handcrafted wooden goods, this bustling bazaar is also home to classic snacks and street eats.
Highlights: – Wooden walking sticks and toys – Aloo tikki stalls – Local woolens and caps
Timing: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Free
2. Lower Bazaar
Why visit: A chaotic yet vibrant market known for budget shopping and authentic local bites.
Highlights: – Momos and pakoras – Spices and dry fruits – Street-style chole kulche
Timing: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free
3. Mall Road Snack Counters
Why visit: Shimla’s iconic Mall Road is dotted with food stalls and counters offering quick, delicious bites.
Highlights: – Fruit chaat – Bread pakora – Veg rolls and milkshakes
Timing: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Free (snacks ₹30–₹100)
4. Tibetan Market (Near Rivoli Tunnel)
Why visit: A compact market offering both Tibetan goods and delicious momos with spicy chutney.
Highlights: – Handicrafts and woolens – Thukpa and noodle soups – Prayer flags and shawls
Timing: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry: Free
5. Krishna Bakery (Mall Road)
Why visit: One of Shimla’s oldest bakeries, offering baked goods and savory snacks at street-side prices.
Highlights: – Veg patties – Pineapple pastries – Samosas and tea
Timing: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free (snacks ₹20–₹60)
6. Middle Bazaar
Why visit: Less touristy than the Mall, this area offers a raw, local market vibe and authentic Himachali bites.
Highlights: – Kachoris and jalebis – Budget clothing – Daily-use items
Timing: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Free
7. Ram Bazaar
Why visit: A local favorite for groceries, woolens, and simple food joints serving classic North Indian meals.
Highlights: – Street-side eateries – Piping hot rajma chawal – Local crowd, less touristy
Timing: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free
8. Wake & Bake Café Takeaway Counter
Why visit: While the café upstairs is famous, the ground-level counter serves tasty street-style combos to go.
Highlights: – Siddu wraps – Masala tea – Fast, fresh options
Timing: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free (food ₹50–₹250)
9. Jakhoo Temple Base Stalls
Why visit: Before or after the steep temple climb, stop at these basic stalls for snacks and small religious souvenirs.
Highlights: – Boiled corn – Local sweets – Wooden toys and lockets
Timing: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free
10. Himachal Emporium Shopping Arcade
Why visit: While primarily a handicrafts outlet, the nearby stalls often serve Himachali tea and snacks for shoppers.
Highlights: – Chana chaat – Warm ginger tea – Himachali shawls and wool crafts
Timing: 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM
Entry: Free
Feature Image:- Photo by Anubhav Sonker on Unsplash
