Tibetan Market Manali
Discover unique Tibetan crafts, leather goods, and delicious street food in Manali's vibrant underground market.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better prices
Tibetan Market Manali
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better prices
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover unique Tibetan crafts, leather goods, and delicious street food in Manali's vibrant underground market.
"It has its own vibe to it - paved street, lot of people, good street food options and overpriced things available to buy."
🎯 Bargain Hard!
Prices are often inflated. Don't be afraid to negotiate for the best deals. :moneybag:
🍜 Try Laphing
This unique Tibetan street food is a must-try! :food_bowl:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Authentic Tibetan Crafts
Various shops within the market
Discover unique Tibetan handicrafts, jewelry, and clothing. Look for quality and authenticity.
Leather Goods
Leather shop near the end of the market
Find surprisingly authentic and reasonably priced leather jackets and accessories.
Laphing Delicacy
Street food stalls
Don't miss trying laphing, a unique Tibetan dish that's a must-try street food experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Scammers
Bargaining & Authenticity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bargain Hard!
Prices are often inflated. Don't be afraid to negotiate for the best deals. :moneybag:
🍜 Try Laphing
This unique Tibetan street food is a must-try! :food_bowl:
Mall road manali on weekend
🚶♀️ Watch for Scammers
Be aware of your surroundings and potential scams. :eyes:
🧥 Quality Jackets
Look for good quality jackets, especially from the shop near the end. :coat:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bargain Hard!
Prices are often inflated. Don't be afraid to negotiate for the best deals. :moneybag:
🍜 Try Laphing
This unique Tibetan street food is a must-try! :food_bowl:
🚶♀️ Watch for Scammers
Be aware of your surroundings and potential scams. :eyes:
🧥 Quality Jackets
Look for good quality jackets, especially from the shop near the end. :coat:
🛍️ Explore Hidden Gems
Venture into the underground market for unique finds not on Mall Road. :gem:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Tibetan Market a vibrant, underground bazaar with unique shopping opportunities and delicious street food like laphing. While some note inflated prices and potential scammers, the market's distinct vibe and the chance to find authentic crafts and leather goods make it a worthwhile experience for many.
"It's an underground market. A hidden place to buy good stuffs from Tibetan market. They have several shops which are not easily available at other shops at mall road.
In particular a leather shop near end of market run by A Kashmiri, have some really authentic and reasonable price range. The very first shop at right have some good jackets."
Anoop Kumar
"It has it's own vibe to it - paved street, no vehicles allowed, lot of people, lot of scammers, good street food options and overpriced things available to buy.
I tried laphing, momos and jalebi. All of it tasted good - laphing is a must try!"
Karen Sequeira
"We can purchase types of swales, the best quality sweeter"
Chaitanya Krishna Tadavarthi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tibetan Market is located near Manali's Mall Road. You can easily walk there from most hotels on the Mall Road. If you're coming from further away, local taxis or auto-rickshaws can take you to the Mall Road vicinity.
While there isn't direct public transport into the market itself, Manali's local bus services will get you to the main Mall Road area, from where it's a short walk.
Most visitors reach Manali by overnight bus from Delhi or Chandigarh. Flights are available to Kullu airport, followed by a taxi ride to Manali.
Parking directly at the market is not possible as it's a pedestrian zone. However, there are parking lots available on Mall Road, a short walk away.
Ride-sharing apps are not as prevalent in Manali as in larger cities. It's generally easier to rely on local taxis or walk from Mall Road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entry fee or ticket required to visit the Tibetan Market. It's an open-air market accessible to everyone.
The market typically opens around 10 AM and stays open until late evening, around 8 PM or 9 PM. However, hours can vary, especially during off-season.
Yes, the Tibetan Market is open on weekends, but it tends to be significantly more crowded on Saturdays and Sundays.
Generally, the market operates daily. However, it's always a good idea to check locally or with your hotel if you're visiting during a major festival or holiday.
The market is usually open until around 8-9 PM, offering a lively evening atmosphere. Some stalls might close earlier.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
You can find a variety of souvenirs including Tibetan handicrafts, woolen clothing, shawls, jewelry, prayer flags, and decorative items.
Yes, bargaining is a common practice in the Tibetan Market. Be polite but firm when negotiating prices for a better deal.
Many visitors recommend the leather shop located near the end of the market for authentic and reasonably priced jackets. The first shop on the right is also mentioned for good jackets.
While many items are inspired by Tibetan culture, not everything is authentically Tibetan. Look for craftsmanship and ask about the origin if authenticity is important to you.
Woolen shawls, handmade jewelry, and small Tibetan handicrafts make excellent gifts. Laphing is a unique food item to try but not ideal for gifting.
🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining
Laphing is highly recommended as a unique Tibetan dish. Momos and Jalebi are also popular and tasty options available at the street food stalls.
Yes, momos can often be made with vegetable fillings, and laphing is typically vegetarian. Jalebi is also a sweet vegetarian option.
Street food prices are generally reasonable, though some items might be considered overpriced by some visitors. Expect to pay a few hundred Indian Rupees for a satisfying meal.
While momos and laphing are common, finding more elaborate traditional Tibetan dishes like Thukpa might be less common in the main market stalls.
The market primarily consists of street food stalls and small shops. For sit-down meals, you'll find more options along the main Mall Road.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their stalls.
The vibrant stalls, colorful textiles, and bustling crowds offer great photo opportunities. The paved street and unique architecture add to the visual appeal.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light. Evenings provide a lively atmosphere with artificial lighting, creating a different mood.
Drone photography is generally not permitted in crowded public spaces like markets due to safety and privacy concerns.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for capturing both wider market scenes and details. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is also great for candid shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When it comes to food, momos and jalebi are generally kid-friendly options. Laphing might be an acquired taste, so perhaps let the adventurous eaters try it first. The market is a pedestrian zone, making it safer for walking around, but always maintain supervision. Look for smaller, less intricate items if you're buying souvenirs for children to avoid any small parts.
💰 Budget Travelers
For food, the street stalls offer delicious and affordable meals. Trying laphing, momos, and jalebi is a budget-friendly way to experience local flavors. While some visitors note that prices can be 'overpriced,' this is often relative and depends heavily on your bargaining skills and what you're comparing it to. By being savvy, you can score some great deals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Market Vibe
Despite the potential for scams, the market is a treasure trove for those seeking unique items. From authentic Tibetan handicrafts to surprisingly good quality leather goods, there's a wide array of products. The key is to approach the shopping experience with a discerning eye and a willingness to haggle. Don't be afraid to walk away if a price isn't right, and always compare items across different stalls.
Beyond shopping, the market is a culinary adventure. Street food stalls offer local delicacies like laphing, momos, and jalebi. Trying these dishes is an integral part of the market experience, providing a taste of local flavors and a break from browsing. The overall vibe is one of discovery, where you can find hidden gems and experience a slice of Manali's local life.
The Art of Bargaining and Authenticity
While the market is named 'Tibetan Market,' it's important to note that not all goods are necessarily of Tibetan origin. Many items are inspired by Tibetan culture or are made by artisans from surrounding regions like Nepal. For instance, a highly-praised leather shop near the end of the market is run by a Kashmiri vendor, offering authentic and reasonably priced leather goods. If you're looking for specific Tibetan crafts, it's wise to inquire about the origin of the items. This doesn't diminish the market's appeal, but it helps manage expectations and ensures you're getting what you believe you are.
Ultimately, the Tibetan Market is a place where you can find unique items at potentially good prices, provided you engage in the local shopping culture. The experience is as much about the interaction and the hunt for a bargain as it is about the purchase itself.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit