By Jomotel | Taste the Himalayas, One Bite at a Time
Himachal Pradesh isn’t just about breathtaking mountains and pine-clad valleys — it’s also a culinary paradise. From rustic pahadi meals to festive delicacies cooked over woodfire, Himachali cuisine reflects the state’s deep connection with nature, culture, and warmth.
Whether you’re strolling through the streets of Shimla, savoring homely dishes in Kullu, or staying in a cozy hill cottage, every plate here tells a story. Here’s your ultimate foodie’s guide to Himachal Pradesh — what to eat, where to find it, and how to savor every flavor.
1. Dham – The Festive Feast of Himachal
“Dham” is the heart of Himachali cuisine — a traditional feast served on banana leaves during festivals and weddings. Cooked by hereditary chefs known as botis, this multi-course meal celebrates lentils, rice, and ghee-soaked flavors.
What’s inside:
- Madra (chickpeas or kidney beans cooked in yogurt and spices)
- Sepu vadi (lentil dumplings in spinach curry)
- Rajma, moong dal, and rice
- Boor ki Kadi or khatta (a tangy gravy)
Where to try:
- Rasoi by HP Tourism, Shimla
- Dine at Jomotel Talai, Chotta Shimla — local chefs often prepare an authentic Dham experience on request.
2. Siddu – The Himachali Stuffed Bread
A steamed wheat bun stuffed with savory fillings like walnut, poppy seeds, and spices — Siddu is the most loved snack of the hills.
When to eat:
Perfect for breakfast or with evening chai on a misty Shimla evening.
Where to find it:
- Local dhabas near Mashobra and Kufri
- Café Simla Times and Himachali Rasoi in Shimla
3. Babru & Chha Gosht – Crunchy Meets Creamy
Babru is Himachal’s answer to kachori — deep-fried wheat pockets filled with black gram paste. Pair it with Chha Gosht, a flavorful lamb curry slow-cooked in yogurt gravy.
Why try it:
Because it’s the perfect mountain comfort food — crispy, rich, and aromatic.
Where to try:
- Himachali Rasoi, Mall Road, Shimla
- Sagar Ratna, Solan (yes, they have a Himachali section!)
4. Tudkiya Bhath – The Pahadi Biryani
A spiced rice dish made with lentils, yogurt, and ghee — Tudkiya Bhath is the hill version of biryani, rich in earthy flavor.
Unique twist:
Cooked with cinnamon, cloves, potatoes, and a dash of curd — a wholesome dish for cold evenings.
Where to find:
- Traditional homes in Chamba or Dalhousie
- Some boutique stays like Jomotel Dayaar can prepare it on pre-order
5. Mittha, Babru & Herbal Teas – Sweet Endings
Mittha is a sweet rice dish with raisins, saffron, and dry fruits — light yet indulgent. Pair it with locally brewed herbal teas made from tulsi, rhododendron, or wild mint for a perfect mountain evening.
Where to try:
- Local homestays around Theog and Narkanda
- Jomotel cafés that serve organic Himachali teas
Where to Eat in Shimla & Around
| Place | Specialty | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Himachali Rasoi, Mall Road (Shimla) | Authentic Dham & Siddu | Traditional interiors & local thali style |
| Café Under Tree (Jakhoo) | Local tea, snacks, and views | Himachal’s highest café |
| Jomotel Talai & Dayaar | Curated pahadi platters | Boutique dining with homely touch |
| Wake & Bake Café, Ridge Road | Fusion food & Himachali teas | Cozy & artistic |
| Local Dhabas, Mashobra–Fagu Road | Siddu, Rajma-Chawal | Pure local experience |
Travel Tip: Eat Local, Eat Seasonal
The secret to truly enjoying Himachal’s cuisine lies in seasonal ingredients and local kitchens. Skip the flashy menus — head to village cafés or Jomotel’s in-house chef-run kitchens to experience food cooked from recipes passed down for generations.
Every bite here is more than taste — it’s tradition, culture, and connection.
Experience Himachal Through Flavors — with Jomotel
At jomotel, food isn’t just a service — it’s a celebration. Our chefs use locally sourced ingredients and authentic recipes to give guests a true taste of the Himalayas.
Whether it’s a cozy breakfast in Shimla, a warm Siddu with rhododendron tea, or a traditional Dham dinner — Jomotel brings the hills to your plate.
Stay. Taste. Experience. With Jomotel.
