Tibetan markets in Delhi, also known as “Tibetan Colony,” are a collection of shops and marketplaces selling various Tibetan goods, including traditional clothing, textiles, jewellery, and handicrafts. These markets are known for their vibrant colours and unique items and are popular destinations for tourists and locals alike. They offer a variety of goods, including traditional Tibetan clothing and accessories, handmade crafts, Tibetan incense, and thangkas (Tibetan religious paintings). In addition to these goods, many of these markets also have street vendors selling Tibetan food such as momos, thukpa, and tsampa.
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See also: Delhi’s Chandni Chowk market: Where to shop, what to shop, and how to reach
Some popular Tibetan markets in Delhi include the Janpath market, the Tibetan market in Majnu ka Tila, and the Tibetan Handicrafts Centre. These markets are known for their vibrant and colourful displays of goods, as well as the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of the vendors. They are popular among tourists and locals looking for unique souvenirs and gifts.
A tour of Delhi’s top four Tibetan markets
Tibetan markets in Delhi sell goods made by Tibetan refugees living in Delhi. These markets are popular for traditional Tibetan handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. These markets offer a wide variety of goods, such as traditional Tibetan clothing, jewellery, singing bowls, prayer flags, incense, and more. Several Tibetan markets in Delhi, India, sell various items such as clothing, jewellery, handicrafts, and traditional Tibetan food. Some popular Tibetan markets in Delhi include:
Tibetan market- Majnu Ka Tila
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Majnu Ka Tila is one of Delhi’s oldest and most famous Tibetan markets. It is located near the Yamuna River and is known for its traditional Tibetan clothing, jewellery, and crafts. Many of the vendors in this market are Tibetan refugees who have settled in Delhi. It is a popular destination for tourists purchasing traditional Tibetan items such as prayer flags, incense, and thangkas (Tibetan religious paintings).
How to reach
By Metro
The closest metro station is Vidhan Sabha, on the Yellow Line. You can take an auto-rickshaw or a bus to reach the market.
By Bus
Several DTC buses run to the Majnu ka Tilla area. You can also take a bus from ISBT Kashmere Gate or ISBT Anand Vihar.
By Car
You can also drive to the market, and there is parking available near the market.
Timings: 10:30 am to 8:00 pm; closed on Mondays
Restaurants nearby
- Tibet Kitchen
- Shambhala
- Himalayan Kitchen
- Little Tibet
- New Aruna Hotel
Tibetan market- Lajpat Nagar
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Lajpat Nagar is another popular Tibetan market in Delhi, known for its wide variety of goods at relatively low prices. It is located in South Delhi and is known for its traditional Tibetan clothing, jewellery, and crafts. The market is also famous for its food, with many Tibetan and Chinese restaurants in the area.
How to reach
By Metro
The Lajpat Nagar Tibetan market in Delhi can be reached by public transportation such as the metro or bus. The nearest metro station is Lajpat Nagar on the Violet Line; one can take an auto-rickshaw or walk to the market.
By Bus
One can also take a bus to Lajpat Nagar, get down at the Lajpat Nagar Bus Stop, and walk to the market.
By Cab/taxi
It is also reachable by private vehicle or taxi.
Timings: 10:00 am to 9:30 pm; closed on Mondays
Restaurants nearby
- Afghan Darbar Restaurant
- Kabul-Delhi Restaurant
- Pind Balluchi
- Ching Wah
- Kent’s Fast Food
Tibetan market- Janpath
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Janpath Tibetan market, also known as Janpath Flea Market, is a famous market in Connaught Place, New Delhi, known for its Tibetan handicrafts, woollen garments, and souvenirs. It is located on Janpath Road and offers a wide variety of items. Visitors can find various products, including traditional Tibetan clothes, bags, jewellery, and other decorative items. The market is known for its unique and affordable items, as well as its friendly vendors. It is a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs from India. The market is also known for its low prices and bargaining culture. It is located on Janpath Road and is open daily.
How to reach
By Metro
Janpath Tibetan Market in Delhi can be reached by taking the Delhi Metro and getting off at Rajiv Chowk station. From there, you can take a taxi or rickshaw to Janpath Road.
By Bus
Alternatively, you can take a bus to Connaught Place and get off at Janpath.
By Car
You can park your car at a nearby parking lot and walk to the market if you are driving.
Timings: 11:30 am to 9:00 pm; closed on Sundays
Restaurants nearby
- Punjab Grill
- Kala Svasti
- Imperfecto
- Bunta Bar
- Barrumbar
Tibetan market- Paharganj
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Paharganj is a neighbourhood in the heart of Delhi, India. It is known for its budget hotels and street markets, including the Tibetan market, which sells a variety of Tibetan handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. The market is a popular destination for tourists and backpackers and a hub for Delhi’s Tibetan exile community. You can find a wide variety of Tibetan products, including hand-woven carpets, traditional Tibetan clothes, prayer flags, incense sticks, singing bowls, and many other traditional Tibetan items. Visitors can also find Tibetan food and drinks in the area.
How to reach
By Metro
Paharganj Tibetan market in Delhi can be reached by taking the metro and getting off at the New Delhi metro station, which is located near the market. You can walk to the market or take a short rickshaw ride.
By Bus/ taxi
You can also take a bus or taxi to the market, which is located near the Main Bazaar in Paharganj.
Timings: 10:30 am to 10:00 pm; closed on Mondays
Restaurants nearby
- Metropolis Restaurant and bar
- Diamond Restaurant and Bakery
- Madan Cafe & Restaurant
- Sam’s Cafe
- Saffron Restaurant
The markets are open daily and are great places to find unique and authentic Tibetan souvenirs. The prices are generally reasonable, and haggling is accepted and expected. It is a great place to explore Tibetan culture, tradition, and lifestyle.
Tibetan markets also have several food stalls that serve traditional Tibetan dishes such as momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and tsampa (roasted barley flour). It’s a good idea to visit these markets in the morning or early afternoon to avoid the crowds and heat.
These markets are popular among tourists, locals, and ex-pats for their unique Tibetan atmosphere and variety of products. These markets are also a platform for Tibetan refugees to sell their products and support their livelihoods.
It is worth noting that these markets are not exclusively Tibetan, and you will find Indian and other ethnic vendors as well. Overall, these markets offer a unique shopping and cultural experience for visitors to Delhi.
FAQs
What are Tibetan markets in Delhi?
Tibetan markets in Delhi are markets that sell a variety of Tibetan goods, including handicrafts, textiles, jewellery, and food items. Many Tibetan refugees have settled in Delhi and have set up shops in these markets.
Where are the Tibetan markets located in Delhi?
The two main Tibetan markets in Delhi are Majnu Ka Tila and Lajpat Nagar. Majnu Ka Tila is located near the university and is a popular destination for backpackers and budget travellers. At the same time, Lajpat Nagar is a more upscale market that caters to a wider range of shoppers.
What are some things I can buy in the Tibetan markets?
Some popular items that can be found in the Tibetan markets include traditional Tibetan clothing and jewellery, prayer flags, incense, singing bowls, prayer beads, thangkas (Tibetan religious paintings), and traditional Tibetan knives (khukuri). You can also find various Tibetan food items like momos, thukpa, and Tibetan bread.
What are the prices like in the Tibetan markets?
Prices in the Tibetan markets can vary depending on the item and the shop. Generally, the prices are lower than you would find in other markets in Delhi, but it is always a good idea to negotiate with the vendors.
Are the Tibetan markets only open on certain days?
Tibetan markets are usually open daily, but some shops may close on certain days. It's best to visit the markets during the weekdays when they are less crowded.
