If you are seeking information regarding the top food options in Nepal in 2024, you have arrived at the appropriate source. Apart from being a renowned destination for trekking, Nepal attracts numerous visitors each year who embark on the Everest Base Camp Trek and other trekking expeditions. Nepal is widely recognized for its diverse and delightful regional delicacies. It is important to note that Western fast food differs significantly from Nepali cuisine. The wide range of flavors found in the Nepali dishes mentioned in this article has contributed to their popularity among consumers. With each serving, one’s desire to indulge further intensifies. It is worth mentioning that Nepali cuisine extends beyond the well-known “Dal-Bhat,” as the menu is heavily influenced by the various communities residing in Nepal.
The compilation of renowned Nepalese cuisine showcases the rich heritage and culinary traditions that have been cherished and preserved for centuries. These delectable recipes, rooted in ancient times, offer a remarkable opportunity to immerse oneself in the vibrant Nepali culture. Embark on a gastronomic journey and savor the unique flavors and essence of these authentic dishes, which will undoubtedly transport you to the enchanting land of Nepal. Without further ado, let us explore a selection of traditional Nepalese delicacies that are highly recommended for those fortunate enough to embark on a visit to this captivating country.
Dalbhat
Dal Bhat is a popular Nepali dish that is often served in Nepali homes and is considered a national dish. It consists of lentils and rice, accompanied by side dishes such as meat, vegetables, curd, and pickles. This hearty meal is a favorite among trekkers as it is high in protein and carbohydrates, providing the necessary energy to work long hours and keeping one full throughout the day. Adding raw chilies can enhance the flavor of the dish. A trip to Nepal would not be complete without trying this delicious cuisine.
Newari Khaja
Newari Khaja, also referred to as “Newari Bhoye” and “Samai Baji,” is a traditional dish originating from the Newar community. In the past, this culinary delight was exclusively enjoyed by the Newar people and reserved for special occasions. However, the tides have turned, and this dish has gained immense popularity throughout Nepal. The Newari Khaja meal encompasses a diverse range of ingredients, including baji (beaten rice), achar, chhoyela, eggs, soybeans, bara, Aalu Tama, and chhyang (rice beer). In the city of Kathmandu, there exists a multitude of Newari eateries that serve this delectable cuisine. For an authentic Newari experience, one can visit Newa Lahana in Kirtipur, which is renowned as a prominent hub for immersing oneself in Newari culture. The ambiance of Newa Lahana truly captures the essence of Newari traditions, offering a genuine ethnic experience. The staff at Newa Lahana, adorned in Haku patasi attire, graciously serve the Newari Khaja on Lapte, a traditional leaf plate. To fully embrace the cultural experience, patrons have the opportunity to savor their meal while seated on a sukul, a traditional mat. Overall, Newari Khaja has transcended its origins and has become a beloved dish enjoyed by many in Nepal. Its rich flavors and cultural significance make it a cherished part of the country’s culinary heritage.
Thakali Khana
A thakali khana is a traditional Nepalese dish that typically includes rice or dhido, lentils with rich flavors, stir-fried greens, gundruk ko achaar, a variety of pickles, and both vegetarian and non-vegetarian curries. All these delectable components are served together on a single plate. To enhance the taste of the rice or dhido, melted ghee can be added. Despite its resemblance to Dal-Bhat, thakali khana is distinct in its preparation and ingredients. This uniqueness contributes to its status as one of the top foods to try in Nepal in 2023. The delightful thakali khana can be savored at various restaurants in Nepal, particularly in the bustling city of Kathmandu. Its popularity is steadily increasing, making it readily available for locals and tourists alike.Yomari
Yomari, a delectable Newari dish, is made from rice flour and chaaku paste. The dough is shaped and steam-cooked with chaaku filling, although nowadays other fillings such as meat and khuwa are also popular. This traditional food takes a long time to prepare but is worth the effort. Yomari can be found in Newari restaurants, but availability may vary. It is a must-try for those with a sweet tooth and is considered one of the top foods to eat in Nepal in 2024 during a suitable tour.
Chatamari
Chatamari, a new addition to the Newari cuisine, is a rice flour-based dish with a thick batter. Its unique appearance and flavor come from the variety of toppings used, including vegetables for vegetarians and meat for non-vegetarians. It is considered one of the top foods to try in Nepal in 2024, although it may not be available in all Newari restaurants. The menu will indicate whether or not chatamari is served. Despite its pizza-like appearance, chatamari has a distinct local and traditional Nepali flavor that makes it a must-try delicacy.
Momo
When visiting Nepal, it is highly recommended to indulge in the delightful momo dumplings. Momo is undeniably a beloved dish among the locals. In Kathmandu, there are numerous establishments dedicated to serving momo, making it effortless to find a restaurant that specializes in this delectable treat. Momo is available in an array of flavors and sizes, and what sets it apart is the accompanying sauce, known as momo achaar. Immerse yourself in the richness of the momo sauce, which is meticulously crafted with a myriad of spices that elevate the taste of the dumplings. Consequently, it has earned its place as one of the must-try foods in Nepal for the year 2024. Momo is served with a variety of fillings in Nepal, including chicken, paneer, khuwa, and minced beef. Without a doubt, trying momo should be on your agenda when exploring the culinary delights of Nepal.
Selroti and Aalu Achaar
Selroti and Aalu Achaar are commonly enjoyed during the holiday season, particularly during the significant festival of Tihar in Nepal. This five-day celebration, also known as the Light Festival, is a time when Nepalese families prepare selroti at home and share it with their loved ones. Although traditionally associated with Tihar, selroti has gained widespread popularity and is now consumed by many on a daily basis. It is often enjoyed as a lunch or breakfast option. Made with rice flour, selroti is deep-fried in ghee or oil and takes on a ring-like shape. To complement this delightful treat, it is typically served with tea and aalu achar. Aalu achar, a traditional potato pickle, is commonly served as a side dish with Dal Bhat. This flavorful accompaniment is made by combining small boiled potato cubes with a variety of spices. The sweetness of the selroti and the spiciness of the aalu achar create a harmonious balance of flavors. If you ever have the opportunity to visit Nepal, do not hesitate to try selroti and aalu achar. These delicious treats are not only enjoyed during the holiday season but also make for a delightful culinary experience throughout the year.
Dhido
Dhido, a traditional delicacy, is prepared by cooking millet, wheat, buckwheat, or maize flour in accordance with customary practices. This nutritious dish is created by blending flour with hot water and continuously stirring the mixture until it achieves a consistent texture. Dhido is typically served hot alongside a refreshing liquid. For enhanced taste, the addition of ghee is recommended. To savor its flavors, one can dip the dish in meat soup, milk, lentil soup, or gundruk. Dhido is a suitable choice for both lunch and dinner.
Thukpa
Thukpa, a dish originating from Nepal and influenced by Tibetan and Chinese cuisines, has gained popularity across the Himalayas. This nourishing soup serves as an effective remedy against the flu. Renowned for its nutritional richness and delightful taste, Thukpa has become a beloved dish in Nepal. The stew comprises of noodles, green vegetables, pork, and eggs, with the option to add lime for an enhanced flavor. Consequently, it has earned its place as one of the highly recommended foods to savor in Nepal in 2023.
Juju Dhau
The introduction to Newari culture can be experienced through the most delectable yogurt in Nepal, Juju dhau. Considered the king of yogurt, it is an essential component of almost any celebration. Bhaktapur is the primary location to procure this renowned delicacy. Crafted from buffalo milk, Juju dhau possesses a luscious texture. Its distinct flavor is achieved by blending various sweets into hot milk. The resulting mixture is then poured into an exquisite clay bowl and kept warm until it reaches the perfect consistency. Similarly, a visit to Bhaktapur would be incomplete without indulging in Juju dhau. It is highly likely that you will be compelled to place an additional order. Whether enjoyed as a snack or as a side dish alongside dal-bhat, Juju dhau never fails to satisfy the palate.
Sadheko Sukuti
This dish is a must-try for meat lovers. The Sadheko sukuti is already delicious, but this beef dish takes it up a notch with its sour, hot, and smokey flavors. Typically served as an appetizer or side dish in restaurants, the dried meat is seasoned with a blend of spices, raw onions, green chilies, and garlic. There are various ways to prepare this dish, and it is often served with pickles, beaten rice, freshly sliced carrots, radish, and cucumber.
Gundruk ko achar
Gundruk ko achar, a unique Nepalese culinary delight, possesses a distinctive taste and fragrance. It may take novice individuals some time to acclimate themselves to the distinct flavor of gundruk ko achar. Gundruk, a fermented leafy green derived from mustard, radish, and cauliflower plants, serves as the primary ingredient. To prepare gundruk ko achar, soaked gundruk is combined with finely chopped onion, green chilies, tomato, garlic, fenugreek, turmeric, lemon, ginger, mustard oil, and salt. The inclusion of a few grains of toasted bhatmas further enhances the flavor profile of this dish, taking it to unparalleled heights.
Laphing
Boudha street is home to numerous shops that offer the popular Tibetan street food, lafhing. This dish has gained immense popularity among food enthusiasts in Kathmandu. It can be enjoyed as a summer dish with cold spiced water or as a winter delicacy. The noodles are seasoned with salt, coriander, onions, cloves, garlic, and a few drops of sesame oil, which enhance its delectable flavor. The level of spiciness can be adjusted according to one’s preference, and it is recommended to try it really spicy for the best taste. Next time you visit Buddha, surprise your taste buds with this spicy delight.
Aalu Tama
This dish is called Aalu Tama, a soup that combines Chinese and Indian flavors to create a hot and sour taste. It is typically served with a side dish of potatoes, bamboo shoots, and black-eyed beans, along with rice, sel roti, or Newari khaja set. Although it may not be immediately appealing to those trying it for the first time, its unique sourness is known to be addictive after a few more tries.
Yomari
Yomari, a delectable Newari dish, is included on our list. Additionally, Yomari is a traditional food made from chaaku and rice flour. The preparation of this unique yet delicious dish is time-consuming. The process begins with the creation of dough using rice flour. Subsequently, the chaaku paste, which possesses a thick consistency, is prepared. Each small piece of dough is then meticulously shaped one by one. Afterwards, the Yomari is steamed and filled with chaaku. However, it is worth noting that nowadays, people prefer alternative fillings to chaaku. In fact, Yomari stuffed with meat and khuwa can also be found. Consequently, it has become one of the top foods to savor in Nepal in 2023, particularly during a suitable tour in the country. While Yomari can be savored in Newari restaurants, it is advisable to check the menu beforehand. Similarly, it is not always available in Newari hotels. Nevertheless, it remains a delightful treat for those with a sweet tooth.
Khuwa
Khuwa, a delectable treat, is crafted from milk that requires extensive stirring to achieve a thick and smooth consistency. Despite the effort, the end result is well worth it. This dish is widely available in vegetarian restaurants across Nepal.
Gud Pak
Gudpak, a dish made of milk and sugar, is believed to possess several health advantages. Consequently, it is regularly served to new mothers. When warmed, the delectable dessert, adorned with sliced almonds and grated coconut, offers the most delightful flavor. Consequently, it has been recognized as one of the premier culinary delights to savor in Nepal in 2024
Sherpa Soup
In the Everest region, Sherpa stew is savored by both the local inhabitants and trekkers. This nourishing soup, comprising of flatbread, vegetables, and rice, provides sustenance throughout the day and enhances the endurance required to conquer the challenging trail.
Cheese made from yak
The Himalayan region produces yak cheese, which accounts for its delicious flavor in this creamy, soft delight. The cheese is made from yak milk and is widely available in Kathmandu and other parts of Nepal.
Trekkers in the Himalayan region can sample fresh yak cheese while visiting cheese producers.
Pani Puri
The humble street food of Pani Puri has gained immense popularity and can now be found in upscale restaurants. This dish is a delightful blend of sourness and spices, served with a small puri filled with mashed potatoes, onions, chilies, and spices. The flavor can be customized with infused water and additional ingredients like mint and tamarind. Pani Puri is widely available and reasonably priced, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts.
Chatpate
If you have a preference for spicy food and are interested in experiencing the flavors of Nepali cuisine, I recommend trying chatpate. The assortment of spices used in chatpate will create a sensation in your mouth akin to witnessing a vibrant fireworks display. It can be likened to a festival of spices, as it encompasses tanginess, spiciness, sweetness, and various other flavors all within a single bite. To truly understand its taste, it is imperative that you give it a try.
Titaura or Pau
It is highly recommended to try the sour and spicy fruit-based delicacy available at the titaura business chain located on the new road. They offer a wide range of titaura that you wouldn’t want to miss. It is advisable to carry a packet with you, but be careful as the unique taste may leave you craving for more.
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We are here to offer your something different which truly connects with local Nepali people and immerse yourself in their lifestyles and culture while you travel.
Real Journey Trekking Nepal was founded in 2006 to create real, authentic experiences in Nepal for travellers and trekkers around the world who also wanted to give back to the local communities through ethical trekking or combining volunteering with travelling in Nepal.
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Through our women’s development project, 30 women in Kathmandu are currently receiving day to day literacy and language classes along with skill training. We are proud to have been running a disabled centre with a capacity of 25 children that provides services such as special education, physiotherapy and speech therapy.
