Kolsai Lakes is best known for its stunning alpine landscapes, but you can still enjoy delicious, hearty local cuisine rooted in Kazakh tradition. While fine dining is scarce, rustic meals served at guesthouses and village cafés offer authentic flavours and warm hospitality. Here are the must-try local foods and where to enjoy them around Kolsai Lakes.
1. Beshbarmak at a Saty Guesthouse
Why try: The national dish of Kazakhstan, made with boiled meat and hand-cut noodles in broth.
Highlights: – Typically horse or lamb – Served in generous portions – Best enjoyed communally – Symbol of Kazakh culture
Timing: Dinner (pre-order)
Entry: Included in stay or ₹400–₹600 per plate
2. Baursak (Fried Bread) from Local Homes
Why try: Soft and golden fried dough balls, commonly served with tea.
Highlights: – Lightly sweet – Made fresh daily – Great with jam or honey – Often complimentary at guesthouses
Timing: Breakfast or afternoon tea
Entry: ₹100–₹200 per plate
3. Kumis from a Local Farm
Why try: Fermented mare’s milk with a sour-sparkling taste, traditional among Kazakh nomads.
Highlights: – Tart and fizzy – Believed to aid digestion – Fresh from local farms – Best served cold
Timing: Daytime (seasonal)
Entry: ₹100–₹150 per cup
4. Plov at Saty Village Café
Why try: A classic Central Asian rice dish made with lamb, carrots, and spices.
Highlights: – Cooked over open flame – Topped with garlic or raisins – Hearty and filling – Local-style preparation
Timing: Lunch and dinner
Entry: ₹300–₹500 per serving
5. Samsa from Roadside Stalls
Why try: A flaky meat-filled pastry baked in tandoor ovens, perfect as a snack.
Highlights: – Stuffed with minced lamb or beef – Crispy on the outside – Best eaten warm – Easy to carry while hiking
Timing: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: ₹50–₹100 per piece
6. Fresh Trout at Kolsai Camp Cafés
Why try: Locally caught trout grilled over coals, served with basic sides.
Highlights: – Fresh from nearby waters – Lightly seasoned – Pairs well with bread – Often caught the same day
Timing: Lunch or dinner
Entry: ₹500–₹800 per plate
7. Ayran with Bread in Local Homes
Why try: A cool yogurt-based drink made with water and salt, popular after long treks.
Highlights: – Tangy and refreshing – Great for digestion – Served chilled – Paired with homemade bread
Timing: All day
Entry: ₹50–₹100 per glass
8. Kurt (Dried Cheese Balls) from Saty Market
Why try: Traditional salty cheese snacks that are easy to carry and packed with flavour.
Highlights: – Hard and tangy – Long shelf life – High in protein – Great trail snack
Timing: Morning to evening
Entry: ₹100–₹200 per bag
9. Shorpo (Lamb Soup) in Local Yurts
Why try: A light soup made with lamb, potatoes, and herbs, cooked over open fire.
Highlights: – Clear broth – Satisfying after trekking – Often served with bread – Available at homestays
Timing: Dinner (pre-requested)
Entry: ₹300–₹400 per bowl
10. Homemade Jams and Herbal Tea
Why try: Locally made berry jams and mountain herbal infusions round out the rural food experience.
Highlights: – Made with wild raspberries or sea buckthorn – Served with bread or tea – Ideal breakfast item – Healthy and fragrant
Timing: Breakfast or tea time
Entry: Included in stay or ₹100–₹200 per serving
