McLeodganj is a vibrant little town nestled in the Himalayas and known for its unique blend of Tibetan and Indian cultures which is why if you’re a foodie, you’re in for a treat! The hill station offers a culinary treat like no other, with plenty of tantalizing dishes to savor. From traditional Tibetan momos bursting with flavors to steaming bowls of thukpa that warm you from the inside out, every bite tells a story of heritage and tradition. Let’s explore what to eat in McLeodganj.
Must-Have Dishes In McLeodganj
- Thenthuk
- Momos
- Balep Korkun
- Bok Choy Soup
- Thukpa
- Madra
- Gyurma
1. Thenthuk
You must try this Tibetan-inspired soup for an instant meal that’s also heavy on the stomach. It’s a hearty mix of dough, meat, broth, and together that’s just pure comfort in a bowl. And for vegetarians, there are also plenty of options to choose from.
A word of caution, however: thenthuk can be quite heavy on spice, so watch out if you’re not used to the heat!
Where To Have Thentuk: Tibet Kitchen
Address: House #1, Main Square, Jogiwara Rd
2. Momos
If you’re strolling through McLeodganj and are craving some street grub, your best street hog is the momos! These are like little pockets of joy, because of the filling that’s gracefully packed into flour. Yes, you got that right, they’re everyone’s favorite dumplings!
Momos dominate the scene with their vegetables and meat fillings, making your taste buds dance. From spicy chicken, and succulent beef, to healthy vegetables, momo joints in McLeodganj serve up authenticity with every juicy bite.
Where To Have Momos: Kalimpong Restaurant
Address: 68QF+HRC, Tipa Road, Dharamkot Road
3. Balep Korkun
You haven’t experienced Mcleodganj until you’ve had a bite of the signature round flatbread, Balep Korkun. Made from barley flour, this dish is best paired with soups or semi-gravy dishes like chilly pork.
To have your heart full and tummy fuller, savor balep korkun along with some meat madra (curry) and let sleep take over you.
4. Bok Choy Soup
A McLeodganj quintessential dish, a steaming bowl of Bok Choy is as delightful as the Himalayan breeze. This soup is made of edible leaves and stems boiled in broth. If you thought it would taste bland, wait until you feel the pepper tones of the soup hit your throat.
Whether you choose to slurp it down or toss it into a crisp salad, this leafy concoction not only satisfies your taste buds but packs a punch of health benefits. Bok Choy soup is often eaten during winter because it helps you stay warm.
5. Thukpa
One of the most commonly found dishes in McLeodganj, Thukpa made its way to McLeodganj with the Tibetan refugees who settled here.
This is a steaming bowl of noodle soup packed with tender meat, fresh vegetables, and just the right blend of spices to tickle your taste buds. Each region puts its spin on it, so you’re in for a tasty adventure wherever you try it. It’s the ultimate comfort food for those frosty days!
Where To Have Thukpa: Norling Restaurant
Address: Dolma Chowk, Jogiwara Road, McLeodganj
6. Madra
You can’t claim to have tried Himachali cuisine if you haven’t tried Madra. When you compare it to the dishes of the plains, it’ll be similar to the curries you usually have, but the flavors are what make the madra unique. Madras are usually spicier and thicker than the usual tomato-based curries.
Have it with rice or the balep korkun and you’ll have yourself comfort food at its finest because this meal brings people together one hearty spoonful at a time.
7. Gyurma
If you’re the squeamish kind, you might consider skipping this dish from McLeodganj! Gyurma is a sausage made from yak or sheep blood. It’s packed with flavors and is a rare find but worth it! Imagine some onions sizzling in the pan, releasing a fragrance that only increases your hunger.
Pair it with a side of rice, and be prepared for a feast. This is one of those dishes that seem questionable until tried, but once you try it, you’re not going to resist ordering another plate of gyurma.
Summing Up
While McLeodganj is widely known for its picturesque views and fun adventurous activities, you now know the place to be a hub of some of the tastiest dishes. So why wait? Pack an extra pair of oversized pants and get feasting!
FAQs
How Many Days Are Sufficient For Mcleodganj?
A trip of 3-4 days is sufficient to explore McLeodganj.
What Do You Wear To Mcleodganj?
McLeodganj is a relatively cool place, so you’ll want to wear warmers, jackets, or thermals when visiting.
Is Mcleodganj Costly?
A solo trip to McLeodganj will cost you around INR 10,000 for 4 days. However, if you’re traveling with your family, it will cost around INR 15,000 – INR 20,000.
Can We See Snow In Mcleodganj?
Yes, you can see snow in McLeodganj from December to February.
