Lapped in clouds, the city of Gangtok is like a painting come to life with dreamy, white mountains being the backdrop in almost every outdoor frame. The city’s drop-dead gorgeous vistas and painstakingly serene monasteries and temples allure tourists across the world. Home to some of the most exciting Himalayan peaks like Nathula Pass, Gangtok is truly a trekker’s paradise. But don’t let that trick you into thinking that Gangtok is all about trekking, mountains, and pretty photos. The city’s a lot more than that.
They say, to know the culture and tradition of a city you must taste the flavors authentically. Likewise, to know the traditional practices of Gangtok, you must relish the street hog here that’s a mix of Tibetan and Indian cuisines. For exactly that experience, let’s go through some of the best dishes you must try in Gangtok, Sikkim.
Best Dishes In Gangtok, Sikkim
1. Momos
Half of Tibetan cuisine and the whole of Sikkim is incomplete without the mention of momos. If you’re not experimental with food, stick to the home cuisine of the state. Whether you prefer veg, non-veg, half a plate, or full, there are momos of every type to fill your stomach and even more your heart. Simply place your order, and you’ll be served the best momos.
This traditional dish, which you may recall as dumplings in the West, offers a variety of choices to suit every taste, making it an excellent option for youth travelers seeking familiar yet delicious local flavors. Pair it with a plate of fuming chai and savor the most blissful moments of your day.
2. Bread Omelet + Maggi
Gangtok is a city that demands to be explored on foot. And when there’s so much exploring that needs to be done, the first thing you should take care of is your stomach. Keep your stomach full so you have energy to get through the day. If waking up early and heading for breakfast at a restaurant is too much effort, we’ll suggest a combo meal that’s low effort but greatly delicious! A classic bread omelet paired with piping hot maggi should be your go-to breakfast, lunch, or snack while you’re exploring the city.
Street shops line the roads here, offering this classic combo for a quick bite during your road trip. You can even enjoy this snack while basking in the scenic views. The combination of flavors and the picturesque surroundings creates a memorable experience, ideal for those looking to explore and enjoy local cuisine on the go.
3. Thukpa
Next up, another authentic dish that you’ll want to devour at the first whiff is the thukpa. Some of you may even confuse this dish with a steaming bowl of ramen, but we’d argue that this is more authentic (and flavorful!). Thukpa is a traditional bowl of boiled noodles served in hot soup. The soup tastes bland at first, but give it some sips and wait for the spice to hit your throat.
Thukpa is usually served with both vegetarian toppings like steamed broccoli and lettuce, or non-vegetarian toppings like boiled egg or fried chicken. Pick your favorite and get ready to savor some throat and soul-soothing noodle soup!
4. Chicken Sadeko
After all the flour and fried food, it’s time you eat healthy and balance all the junk with a salad. But don’t fret at the thought of eating bland greens or boiled chicken after a lot of delicious meals, because this isn’t your ordinary salad. Sadeko is the word used to describe the process of marination.
Ideally, this dish involves marinating boneless chicken pieces in spicy but flavorful sauces followed by pan frying until crispy. The pieces are then tossed with lots of lettuce, onions, tomatoes, and lime juice. Don’t forget to try this scrumptious dish the next time you’re in Gangtok.
5. Sha Phaley
You may have heard of the dishes mentioned above but this one’s most certainly a newcomer in the list of underrated dishes. Sha Phaley is a traditional snack made from bread and potato stuffing. Bread rolls would come to mind but sha phaley is more a mix of bread rolls and garlic bread. Shaped like a classic garlic bread, it’s stuffed with boiled potatoes infused with herbs and spices and then deep-fried.
Dip some sha phaley in sweet tomato sauce and pair it with a piping hot cup of tea, even better, chai in a kulhad and savor a heavenly experience.
6. Chinese Appetizers
Craving some desi Chinese manchurian in Gangtok? Well, not only will you get desi Chinese here, you’ll get it better with the taste being more authentic and delicious. With the taste being incredible, the next best thing about this cuisine is its variety. From chilli mushrooms, manchurian, to your street-side fried rice, there’s nothing here that’s not of quality! Also, let’s not forget the Tibetan influences that reflect in the choice of sauces and cooking style.
To have the best experience, be on the streets of Gangtok and relish some Chinese noodles along with manchurian dipped in mouth-watering gravy and land yourself in a food coma.
7. Aloo Chura
Looking for something more wholesome than a plate of momos? Try some aloo chura here that’s not only going to fill your tummy but also your heart. This dish comprises spicy potato curry served with beaten rice. Remember, not only is it spicy but it’s also served super hot so don’t burn your tongue having an excited bite! The potatoes or the aloo is cut into small bite-sized pieces and is slow cooked in a thick tomato gravy.
The natives of Sikkim usually have aloo chura for lunch or dinner during winter because the spice keeps the body warm, but you’ll find it available throughout the year, so try it whenever you’re there!
8. Laphing
Up next, it’s time for a snack! Ditch your usual momos or sha phaley and try this partly salty, partly spicy, but fully spicy laphing. It’s made of plain flour and garnished generously with chilli oil, soy sauce, and vinegar for that punch of sour. The preparation begins by cooking the starch mixture until it thickens, then spreading it thin and allowing it to cool and solidify. It’s then cut into rolls or strips.
This combination of chewy noodles and bold, savory sauce creates a refreshing and tangy snack that perfectly complements Sikkim’s cool climate. Laphing’s popularity in Sikkim is because of the light yet flavorful taste, making it a perfect street food for both locals and tourists.
Summing Up
Voila! You’ve got yourselves a curated list of the best dishes you must try in Gangtok. While you’ll make memories biking through the pristine landscapes, remember to also make a collection of some of the best flavor profiles from the region for that perfect, wholesome trip!
FAQ
What Is The Traditional Food Of Sikkim?
Dal (pulses), bhaat (rice), tharkari (curry), and pickle is a classic traditional meal in Sikkim that you’ll find in every household. Along with this, a traditional condiment that’s commonly found is the Himalayan cheese or chhurpi.
What Is The Price Of A Meal In Gangtok?
A meal in Gangtok can cost you anywhere between INR 500 and INR 1,000 depending on the restaurant and meal.
Which Sweet Is Famous In Sikkim?
Sel roti is one of the most popular sweets in Sikkim. It’s made from fermented rice flour batter, sugar, and milk. Shaped like rings, it’s a deep-fried sweet that’s served as snacks.
Which Month Is Best For Gangtok?
The best time to visit Gangtok is between March and May, when the temperatures are pleasant. If you wish to visit during the winter, between October and January is the best time.
