Lachen, nestled in North Sikkim's high-altitude beauty, may not have a bustling food scene, but what it offers is deeply comforting, homemade, and soul-warming. Here, local dishes are served hot in cozy homestays and modest hotel kitchens, often reflecting traditional Sikkimese, Tibetan, and Nepali flavors. Here are the must-try local foods and where you can enjoy them in Lachen.
1. Momos at Apple Orchard Restaurant
Why visit: One of the most popular spots in Lachen offering freshly steamed momos with a stunning mountain view.
Highlights: – Chicken, pork, and veg momos – Served with spicy local chutney – Warm indoor dining space
Timing: 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹100–₹180 per plate
2. Thukpa at Delight Hotels Royal Lachen
Why visit: A comforting noodle soup served steaming hot, perfect for the cold weather in Lachen.
Highlights: – Hearty broth with chicken or vegetables – Generous portions – Cozy, quiet dining room
Timing: 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹120–₹200 per bowl
3. Sikkimese Thali at Hotel Tso Lhamo Restaurant
Why visit: Offers homestyle thali meals featuring a variety of local dishes with rice, dal, and sides.
Highlights: – Rotis, curry, dal, local greens – Simple and filling – Clean, buffet-style service
Timing: Lunch and dinner hours
Entry: ₹150–₹300 per thali
4. Sha Phaley at Himalayan Residency
Why visit: A Tibetan specialty—deep-fried bread stuffed with spiced minced meat or vegetables.
Highlights: – Crisp crust with juicy filling – Great for evening snacks – Served with spicy tomato chutney
Timing: 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Entry: ₹100–₹150 per plate
5. Bamboo Shoot Curry at Homestays
Why visit: A classic Sikkimese dish prepared with fermented bamboo shoots—earthy, tangy, and flavorful.
Highlights: – Best enjoyed in family-run homestays – Served with rice or roti – Vegetarian-friendly
Timing: Lunch and dinner (by request)
Entry: ₹100–₹180 per plate
6. Kinema (Fermented Soybean Curry) at Hotel Blue Pine
Why visit: A unique, high-protein local dish with a strong flavor, typically served with rice.
Highlights: – Spicy and nutritious – Authentic Northeast Indian taste – Rarely found outside homestays
Timing: 11:00 AM to 8:30 PM
Entry: ₹100–₹150 per serving
7. Sel Roti with Aloo Curry at Morning Stalls
Why visit: A ring-shaped Nepali rice bread, mildly sweet, paired with spicy potato curry—great for breakfast.
Highlights: – Traditional festival food – Soft inside, crisp outside – Light and filling
Timing: 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM
Entry: ₹40–₹70 per serving
8. Chhurpi from Local Vendors
Why visit: Try the local hardened yak cheese, which is chewy, salty, and long-lasting—perfect for high-altitude treks.
Highlights: – Available in hard and soft forms – Popular mountain snack – Great to take back home
Timing: All day (at small general stores)
Entry: ₹10–₹30 per piece
9. Tea and Maggi at Roadside Dhaba-style Cafés
Why visit: Nothing beats a hot cup of tea or a plate of Maggi noodles while surrounded by snow and silence.
Highlights: – Quick comfort food – Panoramic road views – Warm escape from the cold
Timing: 6:30 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry: ₹50–₹120 per person
10. Homemade Meals at Lachen Homestays
Why visit: Many of the best meals in Lachen come from homestay kitchens, featuring locally sourced, traditional recipes.
Highlights: – Seasonal greens, local spices, organic rice – Personal touch – Feels like a home-cooked experience
Timing: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner (included or on request)
Entry: ₹150–₹300 per meal
Feature Image:- Image by Wikipedia
