
Old Bunder Fish Market
Mangalore's vibrant Old Bunder Fish Market: a bustling hub for the freshest seafood straight from the Arabian Sea. Experience local life and incredibl...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Freshest catch & peak activity

Old Bunder Fish Market
Best Time
Freshest catch & peak activity

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Mangalore's vibrant Old Bunder Fish Market: a bustling hub for the freshest seafood straight from the Arabian Sea. Experience local life and incredible variety.
"The freshest catch you'll find, straight from the boats! A must-visit for seafood lovers."

🎯 Arrive Before Dawn
For the absolute freshest seafood and to see the market at its liveliest, aim for a 4-5 AM arrival. :sunriseovermountains:
👃 Brace for the Smell
It's a fish market! Embrace the strong, authentic aroma of fresh seafood. :nose:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Morning Auction
Dhakke Port
Witness the vibrant chaos as fishermen unload their daily catch. A true spectacle of local commerce.

Unbeatable Freshness
Market Stalls
Discover an incredible variety of seafood, from Anjal to prawns, straight from the Arabian Sea.

Fish Cleaning Services
Designated Cleaning Stalls
Convenient and affordable fish cleaning services available for a small fee, making your purchase hassle-free.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Early Bird
Prepare for the Senses
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Before Dawn
For the absolute freshest seafood and to see the market at its liveliest, aim for a 4-5 AM arrival. :sunriseovermountains:
👃 Brace for the Smell
It's a fish market! Embrace the strong, authentic aroma of fresh seafood. :nose:
💰 Bargain Smart
Prices are competitive, but a little friendly bargaining can go a long way. Know your prices! :moneywithwings:
🧽 Bring a Bucket
A lidded bucket is handy for transporting your fish, especially after cleaning. :bucket:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Before Dawn
For the absolute freshest seafood and to see the market at its liveliest, aim for a 4-5 AM arrival. :sunriseovermountains:
👃 Brace for the Smell
It's a fish market! Embrace the strong, authentic aroma of fresh seafood. :nose:
💰 Bargain Smart
Prices are competitive, but a little friendly bargaining can go a long way. Know your prices! :moneywithwings:
🧽 Bring a Bucket
A lidded bucket is handy for transporting your fish, especially after cleaning. :bucket:
🧼 Cleaning Service
Utilize the affordable fish cleaning stalls for a hassle-free experience. :broom:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Old Bunder Fish Market for its incredible variety and unparalleled freshness, offering a true taste of Mangalore's coastal life. While the strong seafood aroma and bustling crowds are part of the authentic experience, many find the early morning visit highly rewarding. The convenience of fish cleaning services and the competitive prices make it a must-visit for seafood lovers.
"Visited morning,
Dhakke Fish Market is one of the best places in Mangalore for fresh seafood straight from the boats! The variety is excellent—Anjal, Pomfret, Prawns, Crabs, Bangude (Mackerel), and many more at reasonable prices. If you go early in the morning, you’ll get the freshest catch.
The market is quite busy, and as expected, it has a strong seafood smell, so be prepared. Bargaining is common, and it's best to have an idea of prices beforehand. If you're looking for fresh fish at wholesale rates, this is the place to be!"
Bhuvan B
"It's the largest market for sea food, hundreds of varieties Dhakke Port Fish Market, also known as the Old Port or Bunder in Mangalore, is a bustling spot where fresh fish is brought in daily by local fishermen. The market is known for its vibrant and chaotic atmosphere, where a wide variety of fish can be found at competitive prices. It's best visited early in the morning, around 5 AM, to experience the full activity and to get the freshest catch"
Shariff
"Visiting ealry morning is very good
4 AM where the boats reaches the dakke and unloading of the fishes takes place
U can visit around 6 am also
There are variety of fishes available both in large and small quantity in less price
For cleaning the fishes separate stalls are available where they clean the fishes for 20/-"
Sudarshan. DJ
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Bunder Fish Market, also known as Dhakke Fish Market, is located near the Old Port in Mangalore. You can easily reach it by auto-rickshaw or taxi from anywhere in the city. It's a well-known landmark, so most drivers will know the way.
Parking can be challenging due to the market's busy nature and narrow lanes. It's best to arrive early or consider using ride-sharing services or auto-rickshaws.
The market is bustling and can be crowded. Move with the flow of people and be mindful of your surroundings. If you're looking for specific fish, ask the local vendors for guidance.
After your market visit, you can explore other parts of Mangalore like Panambur Beach or Kadri Manjunath Temple, which are relatively close by.
Yes, the market is very active and generally safe during its peak hours. However, always be aware of your belongings in crowded areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entry fee to visit the Old Bunder Fish Market. It's a public market, and you can freely walk around and observe the activities.
The market is most active from 4 AM to 9 AM. While some activity might continue later, the prime time for fresh catch and auctions is in the early morning.
No advance booking is required. You can visit anytime during the operating hours.
Yes, you can buy fish in both large and small quantities. While wholesale rates are available, vendors also cater to individual buyers.
To avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting between 7 AM and 9 AM, though the freshest catch is usually gone by then. The peak rush is between 4 AM and 6 AM.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find an incredible variety, including Anjal (Kingfish), Pomfret, Prawns, Crabs, Bangude (Mackerel), Squid, Octopus, and various other local sea fish.
Yes, there are separate stalls where women offer fish cleaning services for a nominal fee, typically around ₹20 per kg.
Absolutely! Ice is readily available around the market, often sold by vendors who can also help you fill your bucket.
Wear comfortable, sturdy footwear that you don't mind getting wet or dirty. Light, breathable clothing is also recommended due to the humidity and activity.
It's a fantastic place for vibrant, candid photography capturing the essence of local life and commerce. Be respectful of vendors and ask permission before taking close-up shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the market itself is focused on selling raw fish, there are local eateries and restaurants in the vicinity of the Old Port area where you can get fresh seafood prepared.
Typically, the market is for purchasing raw fish. You'll need to take your cleaned fish to a nearby restaurant or cook it yourself if you have facilities.
Prices vary based on the type of fish, size, and season. Generally, you can find them at reasonable, often wholesale, rates, especially if buying in bulk.
Mangalore is known for its coastal cuisine. Look for dishes featuring the fresh catch from the market, like fish curry, fried fish, or seafood preparations.
While the market itself is a working environment, many local eateries in Mangalore maintain good hygiene standards. It's always wise to choose busy, reputable places.
📸 📸 Photography
The early morning hustle, the colorful boats, the variety of fish on display, the interactions between vendors and buyers, and the fish cleaning process all offer great photographic moments.
It's always best practice to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially vendors. Many are happy to oblige if asked politely.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for capturing both wider scenes and details. A fast prime lens can be good for low-light conditions. Consider a weather-sealed camera if possible.
The golden hour just after sunrise offers beautiful light. The peak activity between 4 AM and 7 AM provides the most dynamic scenes, though it can be challenging with crowds and lighting.
Avoid intrusive photography, be mindful of the strong smells and wet surfaces, and don't block the flow of traffic. Focus on capturing the authentic atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the visual spectacle: the colorful boats, the variety of fish, and the energetic vendors. The fish cleaning service can be a point of interest for kids, showing them a practical aspect of the market. Ensure children wear closed-toe shoes as the ground can be wet and slippery. It's a great educational outing, offering a real-world lesson in commerce and local culture.
🎣 Seafood Enthusiasts & Foodies
This is the perfect place to buy fish for a home-cooked meal. Utilize the cleaning services and then take your fresh catch to a local restaurant that offers cooking services, or prepare it yourself if you have the means. The experience of selecting and purchasing your own seafood directly from the source is incredibly rewarding for any foodie.
📸 Photographers
Use a versatile lens to capture both wide shots of the market and close-ups of the details. Be prepared for wet conditions and potentially low light in some areas. Respectful interaction is key; always ask permission before photographing individuals. The market offers a unique opportunity to document local life and a vital industry.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heartbeat of Mangalore's Fishing Community
Visitors can witness an incredible array of marine life, from popular varieties like Anjal and Pomfret to more exotic catches such as octopus and squid. The sheer volume and diversity are astounding. The atmosphere is energetic, a symphony of calls, bargaining, and the distinct aroma of the sea. It’s an experience that engages all senses and provides a deep appreciation for the hard work that goes into bringing seafood to our tables.
Beyond the commerce, the market offers a unique cultural immersion. Observing the interactions between fishermen, vendors, and buyers, and understanding the rhythm of this ancient trade, is a highlight for many visitors. The availability of fish cleaning services adds a layer of convenience, making it easier for shoppers to take their purchases home. The market also serves as a vital hub for ice supply, crucial for preserving the freshness of the catch.
Navigating the Market: Tips for a Smooth Visit
Bargaining is a common practice, so having an idea of fish prices beforehand can be helpful. Don't be afraid to negotiate respectfully. For those planning to cook their catch, the fish cleaning services available for a small fee are a lifesaver. Bringing a lidded bucket is also a practical suggestion, especially for transporting cleaned fish. Ice is readily available, so you can easily purchase some to keep your fish fresh on the way home.
While photography is encouraged to capture the vibrant scenes, always be respectful of the vendors and their work. Ask for permission before taking close-up shots of individuals. The market is a working space, so be mindful of the flow of people and avoid obstructing pathways.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit