How long does it take to walk through Fordsburg?

A complete walking route through Fordsburg typically takes between 2 to 3 hours. This allows enough time to browse the Oriental Plaza and enjoy a few food stops along Mint Road.

Is Fordsburg safe for a neighborhood stroll?

Fordsburg is generally safe for a neighborhood stroll during daylight hours, especially when the markets are active. Like any urban area in Johannesburg, it is recommended to keep valuables hidden and stay aware of your surroundings.

What are the must-try foods in Fordsburg?

You must try the 'Akhalzwaya' style chips at Sollys Corner, samosas from street vendors, and traditional mithai (sweets) from Shalimar Delights. The area is also famous for its grilled tikka chicken.

When is the best time to visit Fordsburg Square?

The best time to visit is on a Saturday morning when the street market is at its peak. Friday evenings are also vibrant, but some shops may close briefly for midday prayers on Fridays.

Can I visit the Hamidia Masjid?

Visitors can view the historic exterior of the Hamidia Masjid at any time. If you wish to enter, ensure you are dressed modestly and avoid visiting during prayer times unless you are there to worship.

Is the Oriental Plaza open every day?

The Oriental Plaza is generally open Monday through Saturday. It typically closes on Sunday afternoons and has limited hours on Fridays to accommodate midday prayers.

Is this walking route suitable for families?

Yes, it is family-friendly and offers a great cultural education. Children usually enjoy the colorful markets and the wide variety of sweets available at the different stops.

Fordsburg Spice and Flavor Route | Walking Tour

About This Tour

Step into a sensory explosion in Fordsburg, Johannesburg’s historic Indian and South African-Asian heart. This self-guided walk invites you to explore a neighborhood where the air is thick with the scent of roasted cumin, sweet syrupy jalebis, and sizzling street food. Fordsburg is more than just a culinary destination; it is a living monument to resilience, community, and the diverse tapestry of the city. As you navigate this walking route, you will discover the layers of history that transformed these streets from a 19th-century mining camp into a vibrant hub of trade and cultural resistance. This neighborhood stroll takes you through the bustling Fordsburg Square, where weekend markets offer everything from traditional clothing to exotic spices, and along Mint Road, the district's energetic main artery. You will encounter legendary local favorites like Sollys Corner, famous for its iconic fish and chips, and Shalimar Delights, a sanctuary for those with a sweet tooth. Beyond the flavors, the route delves into the profound history of the area. You will visit the Oriental Plaza, a shopping landmark born out of the difficult era of forced removals, and the Hamidia Masjid, where Mahatma Gandhi once stood to lead protests against discriminatory laws. This experience is perfect for those who want to explore independently and soak in the authentic atmosphere of one of Johannesburg’s most spirited districts. Whether you are a foodie looking for the best samosas in the city or a history buff interested in the echoes of the 1922 Miners' Strike, this neighborhood walk offers a deep dive into the soul of the city. Discover the stories behind the storefronts and the people who have kept the spirit of Fordsburg alive for over a century at your own pace.

Highlights

Sample world-class samosas and Pakistani sweets at Shalimar Delights

Explore the vibrant weekend market atmosphere of Fordsburg Square

Discover the history of the 1908 registration certificate bonfire at Hamidia Masjid

Browse the diverse textile and spice shops of the iconic Oriental Plaza

Experience the high-energy street life and neon signs of Mint Road

Taste the legendary 'chips and sauce' at the historic Sollys Corner

Tour Stops (6)

Fordsburg Square

Welcome to Fordsburg Square, the energetic heart of this district. Today, it is best known for its bustling flea markets and night markets, where the smell of grilled tikka chicken fills the air. However, this square has a heavy history. In 1922, it was the site of the final stand of the Rand Rebellion, a massive miners' strike that turned into an armed uprising. The square was actually bombed by the South African Air Force to break the strike. Now, it serves as a communal gathering point where the city's diverse South Asian communities—from long-standing Indian-South African families to more recent arrivals from Pakistan and Bangladesh—come together to trade and socialize.

Shalimar Delights®️

Prepare your palate for something special. Shalimar Delights is a local institution, famous for its 'mithai' or traditional South Asian sweets. As you look at the colorful displays, you’ll see stacks of orange, syrupy jalebis, creamy burfee, and decadent gulab jamun. This spot represents the culinary bridge between the Indian subcontinent and Johannesburg. It’s a favorite for locals picking up treats for Eid or Diwali, but it's also the go-to place for a quick, savory samosa. The influence here is largely Pakistani, reflecting the shifting demographics of Fordsburg over the last few decades, adding new layers to the neighborhood's already rich flavor profile.

Mint Road

Mint Road is the pulse of Fordsburg. Walking down this street, you are surrounded by a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds. From the brightly lit signs of 24-hour eateries to the shops selling intricate hijabs, saris, and imported spices, this is where commerce and culture collide. For decades, Mint Road has been the primary commercial strip for the community. Notice the architecture; many buildings feature balconies overlooking the street, a style that has survived through various waves of urban renewal. It’s a place that never seems to sleep, serving as a sanctuary of light and activity in the city's western edge.

Sollys Corner

You are standing at Sollys Corner, a legendary eatery that has been serving the people of Johannesburg since the 1950s. This is the home of the 'Akhalzwaya' style of food—a unique South African-Indian fusion. Their claim to fame is the fish and chips, specifically the way the chips are prepared: soft, oily, and drenched in a signature spicy vinegar and masala sauce. It is a humble establishment, but its walls have seen generations of Joburgers pass through. It represents the survival of small, family-run businesses in a neighborhood that has faced significant political and economic pressure over the years.

Oriental Plaza

The Oriental Plaza is more than just a shopping mall; it is a monument to a community’s endurance. It was built in the mid-1970s by the Apartheid government to relocate Indian traders who were forcibly removed from nearby Pageview, then known as Fietas. While the origins of the Plaza are rooted in the pain of displacement, the traders turned it into a massive success. Today, it houses over 360 shops. It is world-renowned for its fabrics, curtains, and spices. The 'Grand Bazaar' atmosphere inside is intentional, designed to mirror traditional eastern markets while remaining a quintessential part of the Johannesburg shopping experience.

Hamidia Masjid

Our final stop is the Hamidia Masjid, one of the most historically significant mosques in South Africa. Established in 1906, it became a focal point for the passive resistance movement led by Mahatma Gandhi. In August 1908, right here in the mosque’s courtyard, over 2,000 people gathered to burn their 'passes'—the registration certificates that the government used to restrict the movement of Indian people. This act of defiance was one of the first major 'Satyagraha' protests in the country. Standing here, you are at a site where the struggle for dignity and human rights in South Africa took a massive leap forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk through Fordsburg is ideal for food lovers, focusing on Mint Road and Fordsburg Square. You can sample Pakistani sweets at Shalimar Delights and iconic fish and chips at Sollys Corner at your own pace.