Manek Chowk

Manek Chowk is a historic public square in the walled old city of Ahmedabad, Gujarat, located near Jama Masjid and Bhadra Fort. Established in the early 15th century, it functions as a multi-purpose market that transforms throughout the day. It is notable for its morning vegetable market, daytime bullion and jewellery bazaar, and famous late-night street food market, making it a central landmark for heritage, shopping and local cuisine within Ahmedabad's UNESCO World Heritage City area.

Visitors can expect a large open square surrounded by historic buildings and narrow lanes in Ahmedabad's old city. During the day the square operates as a busy jewellery and bullion market, while after around 9:00 PM it transforms into a bustling open-air street food market with numerous stalls serving Gujarati snacks, dosas, sandwiches, kulhad pizza and sweets. The area is crowded, lively and illuminated at night, with seating at stalls and close proximity to heritage structures like Jama Masjid and Teen Darwaza.

Manek Chowk dates to the founding of Ahmedabad in 1411 by Sultan Ahmed Shah I and is named after the saint Maneknath associated with the city's foundation legend. It contains Manek Burj, the foundation bastion of the walled city, and has served for centuries as the central market square adjacent to Bhadra Fort and Jama Masjid.

Manek Chowk is a major cultural and culinary landmark reflecting Ahmedabad's living heritage. Its transformation from vegetable market in the morning to jewellery market by day and street food market at night illustrates traditional chowk culture. It is an integral part of daily social life and food culture in the walled city's UNESCO World Heritage urban fabric.