Where to Eat in Tawang
Tawang's eating is concentrated in the old market and along the main road through town. Most places are small, warm and simple, and they close earlier than travellers expect.
2 places
Tawang
1 place
Old Market
1 place
Tawang town
Not sure what to order? The Tawang 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 in Tawang
Kitchens open early for breakfast and many wind down by about 8 or 9 in the evening, sooner in winter. If you return late from the Sangetsar trip, eat at your hotel or order ahead. Menus are broad: momos, thukpa, fried rice and North Indian staples appear almost everywhere, while Monpa dishes need a little more looking.
Places on this page
- Dragon Restaurant in the old market is listed for momos and thukpa, the everyday lunch after the monastery.
- Orange Restaurant in town is listed for thukpa and zan.
- Monpa Kitchen is the pick on this page for zan and gyapa khazi.
- Café 3000 Ft is listed for butter tea and momos in a warm room.
Opening days and hours change with the season, so check before you walk over, especially in winter.
Getting Monpa food
Zan, fermented-cheese stews and gyapa khazi are home food first. If a menu does not list them, ask; some kitchens will make them with notice. Homestays are often the best place to try them, cooked the way a family eats.
On the road
The Sela and Jang road has simple dhabas and army-run canteens selling tea, Maggi noodles and momos. On the Sangetsar and Bum La trip, food stops are few, so carry snacks and water, and eat a proper breakfast before you leave.
Paying
Many places take UPI, but signal can drop. Carry some cash for small counters and roadside stops.
For what to order, start with the Tawang food guide.
Questions
Tawang — FAQ
Where should I eat in Tawang?
4 places are listed here, across 3 areas. 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 Tawang?
Start from the dishes rather than the restaurants — the Tawang food guide covers what each dish is and when to eat it, then links to the places that do it well.
What time do restaurants close in Tawang?
Many close by about 8 or 9 in the evening and earlier in winter. Eat early, or ask your hotel to keep dinner if you are coming back late from a day trip.
Can I get food on the Sangetsar and Bum La trip?
Options are very limited. Eat breakfast before you go and carry water and snacks. There are a few tea stops, but do not count on a full meal.
Where can I try home-cooked Monpa food in Tawang?
Ask at your homestay, or at places that list Monpa dishes such as zan. Some kitchens cook these with notice rather than keeping them on the daily menu.