Food & Shopping
Shimla is not only famous for its breathtaking landscapes but also for its delicious local cuisine and shopping experiences. From authentic Himachali dishes to Tibetan flavors, and from woolen handicrafts to wooden souvenirs, Shimla has something for every traveler.
1. Must-Try Food in Shimla
a) Himachali Delicacies
- Chana Madra – A creamy dish made with chickpeas and yogurt, flavored with local spices.
- Dham – A traditional Himachali meal served on special occasions, consisting of rice, dal, rajma, curd, and boor ki kadi.
- Babru – A Himachali version of stuffed puris, filled with lentils.
- Sidu – A local bread made with wheat flour and stuffed with poppy seeds, best enjoyed with ghee or mutton curry.
- Tudkiya Bhath – A special Pahadi-style pulao cooked with lentils and spices.
b) Tibetan & Chinese Food
- Thukpa – A delicious noodle soup, perfect for Shimla’s chilly weather.
- Momos – Served steamed or fried with spicy chutney.
- Laphing – A spicy Tibetan street food, gaining popularity in Shimla.
c) Street Food & Snacks
- Chole Bhature – A favorite North Indian dish available at many eateries.
- Bun Samosa – A unique Shimla specialty, where a samosa is served inside a bun with chutneys.
- Gulab Jamun & Jalebi – Perfect desserts to enjoy in the cold weather.
- Mittha – A sweet dish made with rice, dry fruits, and saffron.
d) Cafés & Bakeries
- Cafe Sol – Famous for its continental food and beautiful ambiance.
- Wake & Bake Cafe – A popular café on Mall Road, serving delicious pancakes and hot chocolate.
- Honey Hut – A unique café offering honey-based products and desserts.
- Indian Coffee House – A historic café known for its South Indian filter coffee and old-school charm.
2. Best Places for Shopping in Shimla
Shimla is a shopper’s paradise, offering unique Himachali handicrafts, woolen clothes, wooden souvenirs, and jewelry.
a) Mall Road
- The most famous shopping street in Shimla.
- Best Buys: Woolen clothes, souvenirs, books, jewelry, and handmade artifacts.
- Shops to Visit: Himachal Emporium (for handicrafts), Tibetan Market (for shawls), and Minchy’s (for fruit wines and jams).
b) Lakkar Bazaar
- Best place to buy wooden handicrafts, home decor, walking sticks, and souvenirs.
- Great for budget-friendly shopping.
c) Tibetan Market
- Located near the Ridge, this market is great for Tibetan handicrafts, jewelry, bags, woolen clothes, and carpets.
- Bargaining is recommended!
d) Himachal Emporium
- A government-run shop on Mall Road, selling authentic Himachali handicrafts, shawls, and woolen garments.
e) Lower Bazaar
- Famous for local groceries, spices, and street food stalls.
- Perfect for buying fresh apples, jams, pickles, and handmade soaps.
f) Ram Bazaar
- Best place to buy woolen sweaters, shawls, and traditional Himachali caps.
What to Buy in Shimla?
✅ Woolen Clothes: Pashmina shawls, Himachali caps, handmade woolen sweaters.
✅ Wooden Handicrafts: Decorative items, souvenirs, and wooden walking sticks from Lakkar Bazaar.
✅ Tibetan Jewelry: Silver rings, prayer beads, and antique jewelry from the Tibetan Market.
✅ Fruit Wines & Jams: Apple wine, apricot jam, and rhododendron syrup.
✅ Handmade Soaps & Organic Products: Available at the Himachal Emporium and local stores.
Best Time for Food & Shopping in Shimla
- Summer (March–June): Ideal for street shopping and trying local delicacies.
- Winter (October–February): Best for enjoying hot snacks like samosas, gulab jamun, and thukpa in the cold weather.
- Festive Season: Visit during Christmas and New Year for special markets and street fairs.
Pro Shopping Tip:
- Bargaining is common in local markets, especially in the Tibetan Market and Lower Bazaar.
- For authentic handicrafts, buy from government emporiums like the Himachal Emporium.
Shimla offers a perfect blend of food and shopping experiences that make every visit special. Whether you’re sipping hot coffee at a cozy café, tasting traditional Himachali dishes, or exploring the vibrant bazaars, the city never disappoints!
