Kullu’s rich Himachali culture is best tasted through its local cuisine—hearty, flavorful, and often slow-cooked with regional spices. Whether you’re digging into a traditional dham platter or grabbing a steaming plate of momos near the river, here are the must-try local foods and the best restaurants to find them in Kullu.
1. Himachali Dham at Himachali Zaika
Why visit: This small eatery in Akhara Bazaar serves the full traditional dham experience, usually reserved for festivals.
Highlights: – Chana madra, sepu badi, and khatta – Slow-cooked dishes on wood fire – Authentic Himachali flavors
Timing: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹300–₹500 per thali
2. Siddu at Sapna Sweets & Restaurant
Why visit: A popular local spot where you can try this steamed wheat bun stuffed with spiced lentils or dry fruits.
Highlights: – Served with ghee or chutney – Hot and filling – Great winter comfort food
Timing: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹50–₹100 per portion
3. Trout Fish at Valentino’s Restaurant
Why visit: Known for fresh river trout prepared in Himachali or tandoori style, served with local sides.
Highlights: – Whole grilled trout – Light spices and lemon butter – Good seating and quick service
Timing: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: ₹400–₹700 per plate
4. Chana Madra at Hotel Sarvari Restaurant
Why visit: This slow-cooked yogurt-based curry is a staple of Kullu’s local cuisine, served best in thali format.
Highlights: – Mild yet flavorful – Served with rice or roti – Great for vegetarians
Timing: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: ₹250–₹400 for thali
5. Babru and Chutney at Local Street Stalls
Why visit: Found especially in morning markets, babru is Kullu’s version of a savory stuffed kachori.
Highlights: – Black gram filling – Deep-fried crispy shell – Served with tangy tamarind chutney
Timing: 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Entry: ₹30–₹50 per plate
6. Rajma Chawal at Lazeez Restaurant
Why visit: While simple, this North Indian comfort food is a local lunch favorite cooked in home-style masala.
Highlights: – Slow-cooked kidney beans – Ghee-topped rice – Spicy and satisfying
Timing: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹120–₹180 per plate
7. Chha Gosht at Maitre Point
Why visit: A Himachali mutton dish prepared in a tangy yogurt gravy with subtle spices and coriander.
Highlights: – Cooked to tenderness – Served with rotis – Warm, comforting flavors
Timing: 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM
Entry: ₹250–₹400 per plate
8. Tudkiya Bhath at Himachali Zaika
Why visit: A spiced rice dish cooked with lentils, potatoes, and curd—tangy, fragrant, and uniquely Himachali.
Highlights: – Served with desi ghee – Perfect for lunch – Rare to find outside local kitchens
Timing: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹200–₹350 per portion
9. Fresh Jalebis and Milk at Sapna Sweets
Why visit: After your meal, try hot jalebis served with warm milk—Kullu’s favorite evening snack combo.
Highlights: – Crispy outside, syrupy inside – Made fresh on-site – Often paired with samosas
Timing: 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹30–₹60 per plate
10. Street Momos at Bhuntar Chowk
Why visit: Kullu’s Tibetan influence shows in its momos—steamed or fried—sold at small stalls and shacks.
Highlights: – Piping hot veg and chicken momos – Spicy chutney dip – Quick and cheap bites
Timing: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹40–₹80 per plate
Feature Image:- Photo by Ananya Bilimale on Unsplash
