56 Dukan : A Food Paradise in Indore
56 dukan: Indore is often called the food capital of India, and the title is well deserved. The city has a unique food culture where people love to experiment with flavors and also preserve traditional tastes. While Sarafa Bazaar is famous as a late-night street food market, 56 Dukan is another iconic place that has made Indore a paradise for food lovers. The name itself is interesting.
The history of 56 Dukan
Chhappan means fifty six in Hindi, and the street originally had fifty six shops lined up in a row. Each shop had something different to offer, making the area a favorite among locals. Over the years, Chhappan Dukan has become a modern food hub, but its charm and authenticity remain intact.
Walking down Chhappan Dukan is like entering a world filled with flavors. The aroma of freshly cooked food greets you at every step. From breakfast to dinner, and even late-night snacks, you can find it all here. Families, students, office goers, and tourists flock to this street to enjoy good food at affordable prices. For anyone visiting Indore, experiencing Chhappan Dukan is a must.
What makes 56 Dukan special
56 Dukan is different from other food streets because it is buzzing throughout the day. Unlike Sarafa Bazaar, which comes alive only at night, Chhappan Dukan serves food from early morning till late evening. The area is also known for being cleaner and more organized compared to typical street markets. The atmosphere is lively but family friendly, making it a safe and enjoyable spot for everyone. Another special thing about Chhappan Dukan is the variety it offers. You can find traditional Indore snacks, South Indian delicacies, sandwiches, Chinese food, sweets, juices, and even international flavors.
Must try foods at 56 Dukan
One of the main reasons people visit Chhappan Dukan is for its food diversity. Here are some of the most popular dishes that you should not miss when visiting this paradise.
1. Poha Jalebi
Indore is incomplete without poha jalebi. At Chhappan Dukan, you will find this dish in many stalls. The soft, spiced poha topped with sev, coriander, and pomegranate seeds is served with hot crispy jalebis. The sweet and savory combination is filling and sets the perfect mood for your food journey.
2. Shikanji
Indore style shikanji is not the usual lemon drink found in other parts of India. It is a thick, creamy milk-based drink flavored with saffron, cardamom, and dry fruits. Served chilled, it tastes more like a dessert and is one of the specialties of Chhappan Dukan. Many shops here are famous only for their shikanji.
3. Pav Bhaji
The buttery pav bhaji served at Chhappan Dukan is another favorite among food lovers. The bhaji is full of spices and vegetables, cooked with generous amounts of butter, and served with pav toasted on the pan. The aroma of pav bhaji fills the air in the evenings and attracts crowds around the stalls.
4. Sandwiches
This street is also known for its innovative sandwiches. From classic veg sandwiches to loaded grilled varieties with cheese, corn, paneer, and sauces, the options are endless. Students and youngsters especially love the affordable and filling sandwiches here.
5. Garadu
Garadu is one of the most popular street foods found in Indore’s famous 56 Dukan (Chappan Dukan). It is made from deep-fried yam (arbi), cut into small pieces and double fried until crispy. The hot garadu is then tossed with a special masala mix of spices like black salt, red chili, cumin, and tangy lemon juice.
This spicy, crunchy, and flavorful snack is especially loved during winters and has become a must-try dish for anyone visiting Indore’s 56 Dukan food street.
6. Fruit Shots
Fruit shots at 56 Dukan, Indore are small glasses filled with layers of fresh fruit juices, pulps, and sometimes chunks of fruits topped with spices and tangy flavors. They are colorful, refreshing, and served in different varieties like mango, pineapple, strawberry, orange, and mixed fruit.
These shots are a healthy and fun street food option, perfect for cooling down after spicy snacks at 56 Dukan.
7. Sweets and desserts
Indore has a strong sweet tooth, and Chhappan Dukan reflects that perfectly. Rabdi, malpua, gulab jamun, rasmalai, and kulfi are just a few options available. Some stalls have been serving traditional sweets for decades, and their recipes are cherished by locals. In recent years, ice cream parlors and bakeries have also added modern desserts to the list.
8. Juice and fruit stalls
If you want something refreshing after heavy food, juice stalls at Chhappan Dukan are perfect. Freshly squeezed orange juice, sugarcane juice, and fruit shakes are always in demand. Some stalls also serve colorful fruit salads and fruit shots topped with masala, which are light and healthy.
The atmosphere of 56 Dukan
What makes 56 Dukan truly special is its atmosphere. The street is always lively, with groups of friends chatting, families enjoying snacks, and vendors calling out to attract customers. The vibrant lighting in the evenings adds charm to the place. On weekends, the crowd is even bigger, making the street look like a festival ground. Despite the rush, the energy of the place is positive and welcoming.
Best time to visit 56 Dukan
56 Dukan is open all year round, but the best time to visit is in the evening when the street comes alive with lights and crowds. Morning is also a good option if you want to enjoy poha jalebi and a calm atmosphere. Summers in Indore can be hot, so evenings from October to March are more comfortable for walking around and trying food.
How to reach 56 Dukan
Chhappan Dukan is located in the New Palasia area of Indore, which is central and well connected. If you are coming by train, it is about 5 kilometers from Indore Junction railway station. From Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport, the distance is around 12 kilometers. Autos, taxis, and app-based cab services are easily available. Local city buses also pass through Palasia, making it convenient for budget travelers.
Why you should visit Dukan
Chhappan Dukan is more than just a food street. It represents the culture and spirit of Indore. The variety of food, the friendly vendors, and the cheerful crowd make it an unforgettable experience. Every corner of the street has something new to offer, and you can never taste it all in just one visit. For food lovers, this is truly a paradise where tradition meets modern flavors.
Travel Tips for visitors
If you are planning to explore Chhappan Dukan, here are a few simple tips:
• Eat in small portions so you can try more items.
• Carry cash as some stalls may not accept digital payments.
• Weekdays are less crowded compared to weekends.
• Do not miss the special drinks and sweets, as they are highlights of the street.
Conclusion
Indore is a city that lives and breathes food, and Chhappan Dukan is one of its brightest jewels. Whether you are a tourist or a local, this street has something that will make you come back again and again. From the morning poha jalebi to evening pav bhaji and late night sweets, the journey of flavors here never ends. If you want to experience Indore’s food culture in its truest form, make sure Chhappan Dukan is on your list.
Frequently asked questions
What is 56 Dukan in Indore famous for?
56 Dukan is famous for its wide variety of street food, especially garadu, poha-jalebi, fruit shots, samosas, and modern fusion snacks.
Where is 56 Dukan located in Indore?
56 Dukan is located in the New Palasia area of Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
Is 56 Dukan only for vegetarians?
Yes, 56 Dukan is a purely vegetarian food hub.
Which are the must-try dishes at 56 Dukan?
Some popular dishes include garadu, khopra patties, fruit shots, poha-jalebi, shikanji, and sandwiches.
