Rishikesh may be known for its ashrams and yoga retreats, but its local markets and street food lanes are equally enchanting. From spiritual souvenirs to sizzling snacks by the Ganges, the town offers a colorful blend of culture and cuisine you won’t want to miss.
1. Lakshman Jhula Market
Why visit: This bustling riverside market is lined with shops selling everything from handicrafts to yoga essentials.
Highlights: – Spiritual idols and beads – Incense sticks and clothes – Street snacks and herbal teas
Timing: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free
2. Triveni Ghat Street Stalls
Why visit: Just steps from the sacred ghat, these food stalls offer a taste of Rishikesh’s most beloved local snacks.
Highlights: – Aloo tikki, chaat, and jalebi – Fresh lemon soda and tea – Perfect evening munch stop
Timing: 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Free (₹20–₹100 per item)
3. Ram Jhula Market
Why visit: Located near many ashrams, this compact market is ideal for picking up yoga gear and sattvic snacks.
Highlights: – Prayer items and yoga mats – Ayurvedic soaps and oils – Street food like samosas and lassi
Timing: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free
4. Swarg Ashram Lane
Why visit: A peaceful shopping lane filled with spiritual shops, cafés, and ashram stalls selling local produce.
Highlights: – Mala beads and spiritual books – Organic food counters – Quiet, no-vehicle zone
Timing: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Free
5. Rishikesh Main Market (near Triveni Road)
Why visit: The town’s central market is the best place to explore daily local life and buy practical goods.
Highlights: – Clothes, utensils, and groceries – Hidden street food gems – Lively local crowd
Timing: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Free
6. Pappu Chaat Bhandar
Why visit: A popular street-side chaat vendor near Ram Jhula known for crispy and spicy Indian snacks.
Highlights: – Aloo tikki chaat, dahi puri, and golgappa – Fast service and generous toppings – Local favorite
Timing: 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free (₹30–₹80 per plate)
7. Rajasthani Kachori Wala near Lakshman Jhula
Why visit: A small cart serving some of the crispiest kachoris with spicy sabzi — a must-try breakfast fix.
Highlights: – Deep-fried kachoris – Spiced potato curry – Early morning favorite
Timing: 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM
Entry: Free (₹20–₹30 per plate)
8. German Bakery at Lakshman Jhula
Why visit: A cult-favorite for decades, this bakery serves wholesome snacks, breads, and light Indian meals.
Highlights: – Fusion Indian-European menu – Rooftop seating with river views – Chill, boho vibe
Timing: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Free (₹100–₹300 per meal)
9. Local Fruit Juice and Lassi Carts
Why visit: Stay refreshed with cold-pressed juices and creamy lassis found across all major market lanes.
Highlights: – Mango, pineapple, and sugarcane juice – Sweet and salted lassi options – Served in clay or steel cups
Timing: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free (₹20–₹50 per glass)
10. Evening Food Market near Triveni Ghat
Why visit: This area comes alive after sunset with stalls dishing out sizzling Indian street food.
Highlights: – Chole bhature, pakoras, jalebis – Open-air dining vibes – Ideal post-Aarti food stop
Timing: 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Free (₹30–₹100 per dish)
Feature Image:- Photo by Akshat Jhingran on Unsplash
