What to Eat in Dharamshala Today?

Famous Food to Eat in Dharamshala

Tibetan food is warming and simple, built on noodles, dough, broth and meat or vegetables. Try these while you are in town.

Tibetan Momos

Steamed or fried dumplings filled with vegetables, cheese or meat, served with a hot chilli sauce. They are the most popular snack in McLeod Ganj, and you will find them everywhere from street stalls to restaurants.

Thenthuk

A hearty soup of hand-pulled flat noodles in broth with vegetables and often meat. It is a filling lunch on a cold day and is usually also available as a vegetarian version.

Tingmo

Soft, twisted steamed bread rolls. Tingmo is usually eaten with a spicy vegetable, potato or meat side dish, which the plain bread balances well.

Shabalay

A fried Tibetan pastry filled with spiced meat. It is crisp outside and juicy inside, and makes a good snack between sights.

Tibetan Bread and Honey

Fried Tibetan bread served warm with honey or jam. It is a classic breakfast in McLeod Ganj cafés, often with tea or coffee.

Cafés and Snacks in Dharamshala

McLeod Ganj and the villages above it, like Bhagsu and Dharamkot, have a strong café culture. Many travellers spend a slow afternoon over coffee, cake and a book. Temple Road and Bhagsu Road are good places to find a table, and some cafés have views across the valley.

Food Tips for Travellers in Dharamshala

• Try a bowl of thenthuk or thukpa on a cold or rainy day.
• Go early for Tibetan bread breakfasts, as some places sell out.
• Vegetarians will find plenty to eat, as most Tibetan dishes come in a vegetable version.
• Ask for the chilli sauce on the side if you do not like strong spice.
• Many cafés close earlier in winter, so plan dinner in good time.
• Carry some cash for small eateries and momo stalls.