Lakkar Bazaar is one of the most colourful markets in Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. This bazaar is full of wooden crafts and souvenirs, which makes it a paradise not only for shopaholics but also for tourists. As the name “Lakkar” means wood in Hindi, it clearly shows the specialty of this market. Here, one can get wooden items ranging from decor items to household utilities, all carrying the rich craftsmanship of Himachal Pradesh. Shopping here allows you not only to fulfil your urge to shop but also to understand the local culture and traditions of the place.
About Lakkar Bazaar
Image Credit: Lenaeriksson for Pixabay
Lakkar Bazaar is more than a shopping hub; it showcases cultural insight into the woodworking traditions of Himachal Pradesh. The entire market is on either side of a narrow road, with several shops lined up to form a vibrant, full-of-colour view. Lakkar Bazaar is a place that sells all kinds of wooden items.
It caters to all types of wooden items, from small souvenir key chains and other decorative items to large furniture and house items. At times, the work of crafts there is intricate and beautiful, demonstrating generations of finely tuned skill handed down from one generation to the next in such families of artisans.
Also Read: Things To Do In Shimla
Historical Significance Of Lakkar Bazaar
Image Credit: GermansLat for Pixabay
Lakkar Bazaar forms an integral part of the history and culture of Shimla, which is more than a hundred years old. Its roots may be traced back to the British colonial period, where Shimla served as the Summer Capital of British India. This needed an increased demand for wooden furniture and crafts. To address this need, master woodworkers of the local populace opened shops. Over time, the place became a specialised market for wooden goods, hence its name, “Lakkar Bazaar.” With time, the nature of commodities sold in the bazaar changed by changing tastes and needs. However, the spirit of traditional workmanship is at the core of Lakkar Bazaar, which makes it an important cultural landmark in Shimla.
Location: Near Ridge, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India (approximately 1 km from Shimla Railway Station)
Timings: 09:00 – 21:00 (may vary for individual shops)
Entry Fee: N.A.
Architectural Marvel Of Lakkar Bazaar
Image Credit: Kasjanf for Pixabay
Though Lakkar Bazaar does not boast of any grand architectural style, its beauty lies in the kind of traditional marketplace it is, with cute shops lining up on either side of a narrow street. The bazaar structure is typical of the hill station architecture of Shimla, modified to suit the steepness of the land at this point. Most shops are small, wooden structures, generally two or three stories high. Sloping roofs, especially in these buildings, characterise the landscape of Shimla to a great extent, for they are made to endure heavy snowfall.
It also makes for an excellent practical choice for constructing these shops but serves as a showcase for the material the bazaar is famous for. The architecture is not of a high standard; simplicity and functionality alone have given Lakkar Bazaar the required essence to be a traditional market. The structure and layout of the bazaar itself are a part of its charm and character. No experience may be available elsewhere in shopping through the maze of this market.
Related Post: Best Places To Visit In Shimla
Nearby Attractions Of Lakkar Bazaar
Many attractions in Shimla can be combined with a visit to Lakkar Bazaar. Some of these are as follows:
1. The Ridge
Image Credit: ShashankSharma2511 for Wikipedia
The Ridge is the very heart of Shimla—an ample open space with panoramic views of mountains, both nearest and farthest. This is the central point where locals and tourists love to be. The most outstanding element one can find here is the Neo-Gothic Christ Church, which is among the oldest churches in Northern India. The Ridge and the State Museum of Shimla also have many shops and cafes around them. The place is perfect for strolling purposes and offers a great view of the colonial charm of Shimla.
Location: The Ridge, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Timings: Open 24 hours
Distance: About 500 metres from Lakkar Bazaar
Entry Fee: Free
2. Mall Road
Mall Road is the main street of Shimla and the heart of all activity. This vehicle-free zone has shops, restaurants, and cafes, making this stretch ideal for an ambling walk. Branded stores and local handicraft shops—you name it and have it here. Beautiful views of the surrounding mountains add to the beauty of this road. Do not forget Gaiety Theatre, a stunning building dating back to the Victorian era located on Mall Road, which still hosts plays and cultural events.
Location: Mall Road, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Timings: Shops usually open from 10:00 to 21:00
Distance: Next to Lakkar Bazaar
Entry Fee: None
Related Post: Trekking Near Shimla
3. Jakhu Temple
Image Credit: Rohan1331 for Wikimedia Commons
The Jakhu Temple is situated at the highest point in Shimla and is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. This temple is famous for its 108-foot-high statue of Hanuman, which is visible from most parts of Shimla. While climbing this temple, one gets beautiful views over the city and the mountains. Do not get carried away with the friendly monkeys inhabiting the area.
Location: Jakhu, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Timings: 05:00 – 20:00
Distance: About 2 km from Lakkar Bazaar
Entry Fee: Free
4. Shimla State Museum
The Shimla State Museum is located in a colonial Victorian mansion. It provides glimpses into the rich cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh—ancient sculptures, paintings, coins, and handicrafts. This is one of the good museums that displays the history and culture of the place.
Location: Chaura Maidan, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Timings: 10:00-17:00, Closed: Mondays and public holidays
Distance: Approximately 1.5 km from Lakkar Bazaar
Entry Fee: INR 10 for Indians, INR 50 for foreigners
Related Post: Offbeat Places In Shimla
5. Viceregal Lodge
Image Credit: Manashc for Wikimedia Commons
One of the finest examples of British colonial architecture is the Viceregal Lodge, better described as Rashtrapati Niwas. Constructed in 1888, it used to serve as the residence of the British Viceroy of India. Nowadays, it is the Indian Institute of Advanced Study. Visitors can see several parts of the building and wander through its beautiful gardens. The lodge gives an exciting look into the colonial history of India and the architectural glory of the age.
Location: Observatory Hill, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Timings: 09:00 – 17:00 (Closed on Mondays)
Distance: Approx 5 km from Lakkar Bazaar
Entry Fee: INR 50 for adults, INR 30 for children
How To Reach Lakkar Bazaar
There are various ways to reach Lakkar Bazaar. Some of them are:
By Air: Fly to Shimla Airport (Jubbarhatti Airport) and take a taxi to Lakkar Bazaar (23 km)
By Rail: Take the toy train to Shimla Railway Station and walk or take a short taxi ride to Lakkar Bazaar.
By Road: Take a bus or drive to Shimla from major cities in North India, then reach Lakkar Bazaar by local transport.
You May Also Like To Read: Shimla In Winter
Lakkar Bazaar offers a different shopping experience and is not only about buying souvenirs. It is where one gets to see the rich woodworking traditions of Himachal Pradesh at work, meet highly skilled artisans, and imbibe the very culture. Whether it is a special gift, a piece of traditional craft, or just a flair for exploring a local market full of vibrancy, Lakkar Bazaar has a small something to delight everyone. Now is the time to plan a trip to Shimla and discover these wooden wonders of Lakkar Bazaar!
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Source: Pexels
Frequently Asked Questions About Lakkar Bazaar
What are the best items to buy at Lakkar Bazaar?
The best items to buy include wooden crafts, toys, decorative items, and traditional Himachali products like woollen shawls and caps.
Is bargaining allowed in Lakkar Bazaar?
Yes, bargaining is typical and expected in Lakkar Bazaar. However, remember to be respectful and reasonable in your negotiations.
What is the best time to visit Lakkar Bazaar?
The bazaar is open year-round, but the most pleasant time to visit is from March to June and September to November when the weather is mild.
Are there restaurants or food stalls in Lakkar Bazaar?
While the bazaar focuses on wooden crafts and souvenirs, several eateries and cafes are nearby on Mall Road.
How much time should I allocate for visiting Lakkar Bazaar?
Depending on your shopping interests, spend 1-2 hours exploring the bazaar thoroughly and enjoying the atmosphere.
People Also Read:
Turkish Grand Bazaar Bapu Bazaar In Jaipur Sarafa Bazaar
Unveil the hidden treasures of the globe and turn every travel dream into reality. As a Content Writer, I am passionate enough to craft stories from ancient wonders to modern marvels. My words paint the picture-perfect itinerary for unforgettable experiences. Let my words be your trusted guide to immerse in the diverse culture and discover the beauty of the unknown.
