Mall Road in Manali
Shopping is a must activity for the people when they are on any vacation or business visit to any city. Manali is not any exception. Although, the tourists can shop anywhere in Manali whether it is shopping stalls outside Hadimba Devi Mandir or at bazaar where Vashisht Mandir and hot springs are located. But, shopping at Mall Road in Manali has its own charm. The highest town which is located at 1800 meters from the sea level, Manali is quite a cosmopolitan place in its own right. The foreigner tourists, Indian tourist from all over the country, Gaddis who are nomadic herdsmen and Tibetans all mix together at Mall Road quite amicably. The street is colorful assortment of different types of people and culture which jostle on a busy day.The Mall Road is located at downtown Manali near the Hadimba Devi Temple. One of the city’s main bus stands is also located nearby, where Volvo Buses stand between their runs. Mall Road is a street where the heart of the city is located. The bustling scene of the crowds provides the adrenaline in the veins. On one hand, there are some new brand stores which provide branded materials such as sports equipment and clothing to the tourists and locals. On the other hand, there are many old shops which are managed by the same family for various generations.
The Mall is busy with the crowded shops which sell lot of items which ranges from the woolen items such socks, gloves, mufflers and shawls. The shops also sell different handicraft items such as fabulous Tibetan handicrafts, rugs, caps, footwear, Kullu and kinnauri shawls. You can also explore many markets which are located at the Mall Road such Snow Lion Underground Market, Shangri La Shopping Complex etc. The other markets include Dragon Shopping complex, Hong Kong Market and Thai market. You can also shop at the New NAC Market, Tibetan market and lama underground. You can also purchase the amber, musk and saffron from street vendors. But, the main thing to remember is the fact that you need to bargain with the shopkeepers as they expect it and quote the higher prices.
Some of best shops where you can purchase local handicrafts such as rugs and handcrafted shawl are Bhuticco Weavers' Co-Operative and Himachal Handicrafts Emporium which are located at Manali Mall. The Tibetan Carpet Centre and Tibetan Bazaar are run by the refugee community which sells different items such as local tweeds, prayers wheel, Buddhist paintings, thangkas and rugs. They also sell turquoise and silver jewelry and Chinese goods.
When your stomach starts rumbling because of hunger, you can partake food from any lovely restaurant which are located at the Mall road. The cuisine which is available ranges from Indian to Italian, Chinese and continental cuisines to soothe all the palates. If you don’t want to eat meals, you can also enjoy various types of snacks and fast food which is available all over the area. You can also pick up the local pickles, jellies and fresh fruit jams from the market. The Mall Road is open for business from 10 am to 7 pm.
How to Reach Mall Road Manali
Mall Road Manali is located in downtown Manali. It is very easy to reach there from all parts of Manali by rickshaw, bus and taxi..