What Food To Try in Pokhara and Food Prices

Dal Bhat - Rice and Lentils (traditional meal) - A hearty combination of steamed rice and spicy lentil soup, often accompanied by pickles and curried vegetables. This staple is enjoyed by locals at any time of day, often served on a metal tray for shared meals.

Chowmein - Stir-fried Noodles - Soft noodles stir-fried with assorted vegetables and spices, often featuring an egg or chicken for protein. This street food is a popular choice for a quick lunch or evening snack, frequently found in bustling food stalls.

Thukpa - Noodle Soup - A flavorful broth filled with fresh noodles, vegetables, and meat or tofu, perfect for warming up on cooler days. Locals love it for dinner, often enjoyed in cozy eateries called “tapris,” especially after trekking.

Yomari - Steamed Dumpling (festival specialty) - Rice flour dumplings filled with a sweet mixture of coconut and jaggery, shaped like fish or other forms. Typically made during the Yomari Punhi festival, it’s a dish often shared among family and friends, bringing joy and sweetness to celebrations.

Sel Roti - Rice Donut (surprising combo) - A crispy, deep-fried ring made from rice flour, often enjoyed during festivals. Locals typically order it alongside tea, creating an unexpected yet delicious pairing perfect for a lazy breakfast.

Mo:Mo - Dumplings (popular street food) - Steamed or fried dumplings stuffed with spiced meat or veggies, served with a tangy dipping sauce. They’re best enjoyed during lunch hours at local food stalls, where you can see everyone enjoying this comforting snack.

Gundruk - Fermented Greens (seasonal dish) - A tangy side made from fermented mustard greens, typically served with rice or in a soup. Locals savor it particularly during the winter months when it's made fresh from seasonal produce, providing warmth and flavor.

Pokhara Juju Dhau - King Curd (local specialty) - Rich, creamy yogurt made from buffalo milk, often eaten as a refreshing side dish. Often enjoyed during larger meals, this local favorite can be found at family-run dhabas, where the proud owners serve it with a smile.

Masala Chai - मसाला चाय (spiced tea) - A flavorful blend of black tea, milk, sugar, and spices like cardamom and ginger, boiled together to create a comforting drink. Locals often sip it in the morning or during afternoon breaks at small tea stalls (the aroma wafting through the streets is irresistible).

Thukpa - थुक्पा (noodle soup) - This heartwarming noodle soup features a rich broth with vegetables, meat (or tofu), and chewy handmade noodles. While you can enjoy it any time of year, it's especially popular during the chilly winter months (with friends around a hot bowl—it’s a true community meal).

Local Rakshi - राक्षि (rice wine) - A traditional alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice, giving it a unique, earthy flavor. It’s usually served in small glasses at family gatherings or celebrations (just a tiny sip packs a punch!).

Sel Roti - सेल रोटी (sweet rice doughnut) - A crispy, golden brown rice-based doughnut that is soft inside and slightly crunchy on the outside, typically enjoyed during festivals like Dashain. A must-have with a hot cup of chai (and easy to overeat—so watch out!).

Khaja - खाजा (crispy sweet pastry) - These layered crispy pastries are drenched in syrup, making them perfectly sweet and decadently delightful. Made mostly during special occasions like weddings, they represent celebration (and are truly indulgent—everyone loves them!).