Punjabi Market

Punjabi Market, also known as Little India, is a bustling neighborhood along Main Street in East Vancouver, British Columbia. This area is the heart of the city's South Asian community, offering a dense concentration of Indian, Pakistani, and Punjabi businesses. Visitors can explore a variety of shops selling colorful fabrics, traditional jewelry, and Bollywood movies, as well as grocery stores stocked with spices, lentils, and fresh produce. The neighborhood is famous for its restaurants and sweet shops, where you can sample authentic dishes like butter chicken, samosas, and gulab jamun. During festivals such as Diwali and Vaisakhi, the streets come alive with decorations, music, and special events. The market provides a sensory experience with vibrant storefronts, the aroma of spices, and the sound of bhangra music. It's a cultural hub that offers a glimpse into the traditions and daily life of Vancouver's South Asian population.

Don't miss

• Browse Indian clothing stores for saris, salwar kameez, and accessories
• Sample freshly made sweets like jalebi and barfi at local sweet shops
• Stock up on spices, rice, and specialty ingredients at Indian grocery stores
• Enjoy a meal at a popular restaurant serving Punjabi cuisine
• Visit during Vaisakhi (April) for a vibrant street festival with parades and food

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Punjabi Market

Cheapest way inGratuity-Based Vancouver City Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour4.6★ · 378 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$5 per personSee dates →Best full dayBangkok: Floating Market and Train Market Experience4.9★ · 2,777 travelers~9 hoursFree cancellationFrom$24 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleVancouver Self-Guided Bike or Ebike Rental4.9★ · 154 travelers6–9 hoursFree cancellationFrom$40 per personSee dates →

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How travelers rate it

Know before you go

• Many shops accept credit cards, but cash is handy for smaller purchases.
• Dress comfortably for walking; you may want to try on clothing.
• Come hungry to sample diverse dishes from restaurants and food stalls.
• Check event calendars for festivals like Diwali (October/November) for a more festive atmosphere.

A bit of history

Punjabi Market emerged in the 1970s as South Asian immigrants settled in East Vancouver. Over decades, it grew into a commercial and cultural center, with Main Street becoming the go-to destination for South Asian goods and cuisine in the city.