Exploring the Himalayas isn’t just about landscapes and culture — the food and drinks are equally memorable. Each destination offers unique flavors shaped by geography, tradition, and lifestyle.
Nepal
Meals: Nepalese cuisine is hearty and diverse. The staple meal is Dal Bhat — lentil soup served with rice, seasonal vegetables, pickles, and sometimes meat. Other favorites include momos (dumplings), Newari cuisine, and Thukpa (noodle soup). In Kathmandu, Chitwan, Pokhara, and other tourist hubs, you’ll find Western, Indian, Chinese, and continental restaurants, along with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.
Drinks: Popular choices include Masala Chiya (spiced milk tea), Lassi (yogurt drink), and Raksi (local rice liquor). Locally brewed beers such as Gorkha, Everest, and Nepal Ice are widely available, along with fresh juices and soft drinks.
Bhutan
Meals: Bhutanese cuisine is famous for its love of chili. The national dish, Ema Datshi (chili and cheese stew), is a must-try. Other popular foods include red rice, curries made with pork, beef, or chicken, and dumplings. In towns like Thimphu and Paro, travelers can also enjoy Indian, Chinese, and some Western options.
Drinks: Locals enjoy Suja (butter tea) and Ara (a distilled liquor made from rice or wheat). Fruit juices, milk tea, and beers like Red Panda are also common.
Tibet
Meals: Tibetan food reflects its high-altitude climate and Buddhist culture. Staples include Tsampa (roasted barley flour mixed with butter tea), Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), and various yak meat dishes. Dairy products like yak butter, cheese, and yogurt are common. In Lhasa and larger towns, you’ll also find Chinese, Nepalese, and some Western restaurants.
Drinks: The signature drink is Butter Tea (Po Cha), made from tea leaves, yak butter, and salt. Other beverages include sweet milk tea, Chang (barley beer), and Qingke liquor, a strong local spirit.
Dining & Drinking Tips for Travelers
