Mall Road Kasauli – Shopping, Street Food & Souvenirs Guide

Mall Road in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, is a lively pedestrian street and the city’s cultural hub. Its colonial charm makes it a must-visit spot for shopping and leisure. Travelers can explore local handicrafts, woolen shawls, and Himachali Topis. Food lovers can enjoy momos, chaat, and other street delights. It’s also a great place to pick up unique souvenirs. Mall Road promises a colorful experience for every visitor. Below, you’ll find tips for shopping, dining, and exploring this iconic street.

Key Points

• Shopping Hub: Mall Road is renowned for woolen clothes, handicrafts, books, jewelry, and local wines, with something for every budget.
• Street Food Delights: Expect a variety of local eats like momos, chana puri, and Maggi noodles, alongside cozy cafes offering diverse cuisines.
• Souvenirs: Popular items include wooden handicrafts from Lakkar Bazaar, Kullu shawls, Himachali Topi, and local spices from nearby markets.
• Navigation: Easily accessible on foot, Mall Road is best visited in the early morning or late evening to avoid crowds.

Shopping on Mall Road

Mall Road is a shopper’s paradise, lined with stores offering everything from traditional Himachali crafts to modern branded items. Here are some highlights:

• Woolen Clothes: Shimla’s chilly climate makes woolen garments a must. Shops offer sweaters, jackets, shawls, and caps at competitive prices, perfect for keeping warm or gifting.
• Handicrafts: Visit Himachal Emporium for locally made shawls, carpets, and wooden items. These showcase Himachali craftsmanship and are ideal keepsakes.
• Books: Maria Brothers, Shimla’s oldest bookstore, is a gem for book lovers, stocking rare antique books, maps, and prints.
• Jewelry: Traditional Tibetan jewelry, including necklaces and earrings, is available in shops near the hills, reflecting the region’s cultural heritage.
• Local Wines: Wine stores along Mall Road sell exotic fruit-based wines like cherry, strawberry, and plum, offering a unique taste of Himachal at affordable prices.

Street Food and Dining

Mall Road is a foodie’s haven, with street stalls and cafes catering to all tastes. Here’s what to try:

• Street Food:
  • Momos: Steamed or fried dumplings filled with vegetables or meat, a local favorite.
  • Chana Puri: Spicy chickpea curry served with fried bread, a quick and flavorful snack.
  • Maggi Noodles: A popular street food, often spiced up with local flavors.
• Restaurants and Cafes:
  • The Brew Estate: Offers craft beers and gourmet dishes like wood-fired pizzas, with stunning Shimla views.
  • Café Shimla Times: A cozy spot with Indian and Continental dishes, known for its hot chocolate and scenic ambiance.
  • Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar: Located in The Oberoi Cecil, this fine-dining restaurant serves international cuisines in a colonial setting.

Souvenirs and Local Products

Mall Road and its nearby markets are ideal for picking up souvenirs that capture Shimla’s essence. Here are top recommendations:

• Wooden Souvenirs: Lakkar Bazaar, a short walk from Mall Road, is famous for wooden handicrafts like carved sticks, toys, candle stands, and small idols, all showcasing local artistry.
• Shawls and Blankets: Kullu and Kinnauri shawls, along with Tibetan rugs, are prized for their warmth and intricate designs, available at shops along Mall Road.
• Himachali Topi: This traditional cap with a colorful band is a cultural symbol, widely available in Lakkar Bazaar and Mall Road shops.
• Local Spices and Dry Fruits: Lower Bazaar, near Mall Road, offers local spices and dry fruits like almonds and walnuts, perfect for culinary enthusiasts.
• Tibetan Handicrafts: The Tibetan Market, close to Mall Road, is a great spot for unique jewelry and handicrafts at budget-friendly prices.

Souvenir	Where to Find	Description	Price Range
Wooden Handicrafts	Lakkar Bazaar	Carved sticks, toys, candle stands, idols	₹100–₹1,000
Kullu/Kinnauri Shawls	Mall Road, Himachal Emporium	Warm, intricately designed shawls	₹500–₹5,000
Himachali Topi	Lakkar Bazaar, Mall Road	Traditional cap with colorful band	₹100–₹500
Local Spices/Dry Fruits	Lower Bazaar	Local spices, almonds, walnuts	₹50–₹500
Tibetan Jewelry	Tibetan Market	Unique necklaces, earrings, and bracelets	₹200–₹2,000

Navigation and Tips

• Getting There: Mall Road is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from most parts of Shimla. Taxis or local buses are available for those staying farther away. Nearby attractions include Scandal Point, Kali Bari Temple, and Gaiety Theatre.
• Best Times to Visit: Early morning or late evening for a quieter experience. Daytime is lively but crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• Shopping Tips: Bargaining is common, particularly for handicrafts and souvenirs. Compare prices across shops and check quality, especially for woolen items.
• Dining Tips: Try local dishes like momos and chana puri for an authentic Himachali experience. Cafes offer a relaxed atmosphere for longer meals.

Wrapping Up Your Journey on Mall Road Kasauli

A trip to Kasauli is incomplete without a stroll down Mall Road Kasauli, where shopping, street food, and souvenirs create the perfect mix of local charm. Whether you’re exploring heritage shops or indulging in piping-hot momos, Mall Road Kasauli truly captures the town’s spirit. If you’re planning a couple’s getaway, don’t miss our guide to romantic places in Kasauli for couples for more travel inspiration.

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