Not sure what to order? The Nongriat food guide starts from the dishes — what each one is, when to eat it, and which of these kitchens is known for it.

How eating works here

Nongriat has a handful of families who feed visitors. If you stay the night, your homestay will cook breakfast and dinner, usually rice with a Khasi pork dish, dal and a vegetable. Lunch for day walkers comes from stalls near the root bridge. Nothing is open late, and there is no delivery, bar or shop beyond small counters selling water, biscuits and noodles.

Homestay kitchens

The listed Serene Homestay Kitchen and Gorge Kitchen are homestay-style kitchens serving jadoh, tungrymbai and other Khasi meals. Treat these as family cooking. Portions are generous, the menu is what was carried down that week, and dinner is often at a set time. If you are not staying there, ask in the afternoon whether they can feed you that evening.

By the root bridge

The Root Bridge Stall by the double-decker bridge is for momos, Maggi and tea. This is where day walkers refuel before the climb back. It gets busy around midday, so eat a little earlier or later if you can.

On the Rainbow Falls path

The Rainbow Trail Stall on the way to Rainbow Falls sells tea, noodles and snacks. Opening depends on the season and the number of walkers, so do not rely on it for lunch. Carry food from the village.

Practical points

Carry cash in small notes. Card and UPI payments depend on the phone signal, which is weak in the gorge.
Sunday is a church day in the village, and some kitchens do not cook. Check ahead.
Take your rubbish back up the steps with you.
Drink bottled or boiled water, not water straight from the streams.

For what each dish is, read the Nongriat food guide.

Questions

Nongriat — FAQ

Where should I eat in Nongriat?

4 places are listed here. Each entry says what that kitchen is known for rather than reprinting its menu, so pick by the dish you want and the area you'll be in.

What should I order in Nongriat?

Start from the dishes rather than the restaurants — the Nongriat food guide covers what each dish is and when to eat it, then links to the places that do it well.

Can I eat at a homestay without staying there?

Often, yes, if you ask ahead. Homestays cook in batches, so ask in the afternoon if you want dinner and be flexible about the time.

Is there anywhere to eat at Tyrna before the descent?

There are usually a few small shops at Tyrna for tea, snacks and water. For a proper breakfast, eat in Sohra before you drive out.

Can I pay by card or UPI in Nongriat?

Do not count on it. The phone signal in the gorge is patchy, so carry enough cash for food, entry and your room.