Home to shimmering glaciers, stunning meadows, and thousands of varieties of flowers, Sikkim is one destination in India that is on the list of many travelers. The place is renowned not only for its beauty but also for its culinary delights. Try the delicious Sikkim cuisine options to gain a better understanding of the place and its culture. The use of locally-sourced ingredients and the diverse range of flavors that are not typically found in dishes across India make Sikkimese food options a delightful experience. Explore the numerous local cafes, restaurants, and street vendors to indulge in the many culinary delights offered in this picturesque state.
Top 20 Popular Sikkim Food Options
Sikkim is an Indian state located in the northeastern part of the country. It is bordered by three countries, namely Bhutan, Tibet, and Nepal. Blending local influences with those from neighboring countries, Sikkim dishes offer a variety of layers of flavors. Sikkim cuisine has strong influences from Nepal and Tibet. The majority of the state’s population consists of ethnic Nepalese and Tibetans, with the former being more predominant. As a result, most people in the state prefer rice as their staple food. From soups and dumplings to stews, meats, and an abundance of vegetables, Sikkimese flavors are a delightful fusion. The state has a lot to offer for food enthusiasts. Explore the famous food in Sikkim as you continue reading.
1. Dumplings
Dumplings, also known as momos, are the ultimate favorite Tibetan delicacy among the people of Sikkim. Momos have gained popularity throughout the country and are served as a delicious snack in restaurants and street stalls. For those who are unfamiliar with momos, they are dumplings made from flour dough with a filling inside. They are steamed to perfection and served with a spicy blend of sauces and herbs. There are also fried and sautéed versions of this dish available. The fillings often include ingredients such as meat, cheese, and vegetables. The utensil used to steam momos usually has three layers, with tomato soup in the lower compartment to allow the flavors to infuse into the dumplings. It’s no wonder that momos are a famous food of Sikkim. While you are in Sikkim, savor these flavorful delights. If you are looking for places to visit in Namchi, don’t forget to try this scrumptious dish with a local twist.
Where to eat: Taste of Tibet, Shuffle Momos
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2. Thukpa
Yet another delicacy that can be experienced while in the Indian state of Sikkim is the Thukpa. The dish is a flavorful noodle soup that originates in the eastern parts of Tibet. Street food in Sikkim is quite abundant with Thukpa leading this culinary trend. Not only the street vendors, but nearly every restaurant in the state serves this remarkable dish. The noodle soup contains garlic, diced onions, and green peppers to add a spicy flavor and a hint of tang. There are both plant-based and meat-based variations of this dish. While the former includes shredded and diced vegetables, the latter combines red meat and boiled or poached eggs. Enjoy this incredible dish while visiting Sikkim.
Where to dine: Roll house, Parivar Restaurant
3. Dal Bhaat
Dal Bhaat is a traditional cuisine of Sikkim that is highly popular in many parts of Nepal, Bangladesh, and India. The combination consists of boiled rice and lentil soup. In various parts of India, this dish is known as Dal Chaawal. The people of Sikkim enjoy their fair share of Dal Bhaat as their everyday meal. The lentil soup may have varying flavors based on the region, but certain ingredients like salt, turmeric, and a touch of spice remain consistent. The mixture of boiled rice and lentil soup provides a comforting meal that truly satisfies the taste buds. If you prefer simplicity and light meals, Dal Bhaat could be the perfect food choice for you to savor.
Where to dine: Parivar restaurant, Osm restaurant
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4. Dhindo
Dhindo is among the famous dishes of Sikkim that is highly favored by locals and tourists alike. The dish originated in Nepal but has gained immense popularity in many parts of Sikkim and Darjeeling as well. The preparation involves mixing flour with boiling water and continuously stirring it with a ladle. Clarified butter or regular butter is optional. Traditionally, the flour is made from buckwheat or millet. Grains like wheat and cornflour are also commonly used. One can utilize almost any grain as long as it is ground into flour. The utensils used for the preparation are typically an iron pan called Palame Tapke and an iron spatula or ladle known as the Dabilo. The latter assists in stirring the mixture and creating a delicious comfort meal that is beloved by the Sikkimese population. It is also one of the finest destinations to explore in July in Sikkim if you are planning a culinary journey.
Where to dine: Thakali, the square
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8. Sael Roti
Sael Roti is a deep-fried loaf of bread that is typically served alongside Potato Curry. For its preparation, water and rice are combined to form a batter. This is then perfectly deep-fried in boiling hot oil. Even though the dish has its origins in Nepal and Tibet, it is quite a famous dish in Sikkim as well due to the Nepalese and Tibetan influences in this Indian state. Satisfy your taste buds with this savory and remarkable dish while you are vacationing in Sikkim.
Where to dine: Agarwal pure veg restaurant, Parivar restaurant
9. Chang
Chang is the fermented variety of Millet and yeast which aids in the fermentation process. Its alternative name is Thomba and is a traditional beverage of the Limbu people of Eastern Nepal. Chang is the locally brewed alcoholic drink served and sipped with the aid of a bamboo straw. Sikkim has many local distilleries and this locally produced liquor is extremely affordable. Don’t miss out on trying this incredible drink when you are in Sikkim on your next trip.
Where to dine: Tongba Bar
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10. Thenthuk
Thenthuk is yet another delectable soup. Prepared in the form of a noodle soup made with vegetables, wheat flour, and meat or mutton, it is one of the finest Tibetan dishes in Sikkim. It is a favored dinner option for the people in Sikkim. To add spice, several restaurants incorporate chili powder, while some individuals opt for vegetable Thenthuk to keep it healthy. The origins of Thenthuk can be traced back to Tibet.
Where to dine: The Square Family Restaurant and Bar, Taste of Tibet
11. Kinema Curry
Kinema curry is a beloved food among the locals in Sikkim, often enjoyed with rice. What sets this curry apart is its distinct flavor and the fact that it is a high-protein dish. The unique taste of the curry comes from the fermented soybeans. Turmeric powder, onion, red chili, and tomato are sautéed before adding the fermented soybeans, which enhances the flavor.
Where to dine: 9ine Indigenous Cuisine, Kookay Restaurant
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12. Gya Kho
Gya Kho is one of the delectable local dishes in Sikkim. It is the Chimney soup served in the bowl and since the bowl resembles the shape of the chimney, it acquired its name Chimney soup. This Tibetan gastronomy is embraced by Sikkim due to its exceptional flavor. The extraordinary taste arises from its cooking procedure. It gets cooked under the coal with a plethora of other ingredients in it.
Where to dine: Bonfire Baresto, Absolute Demazong Restaurant
13. Kodo Ko Roti
This regional Nepali cuisine is a popular local delicacy among individuals in Sikkim. The best accompaniment is Tomato Achar and the Kodo KO roti. It can also be served with a variety of pickles. The customary pancake is prepared with finger millet as its core component, locally referred to as Kodo. The other vital element includes sugar and ghee.
Where to dine: Rasoi Restaurant, The Square Family Restaurant and Bar
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14. Masauyra Curry
One of the renowned Nepali cuisines, Masaurya curry is a favored local dish of Sikkim. The primary ingredient utilized to prepare the curry is fermented black gram. It resembles a ball and is piquant condiments. Make sure to indulge in this extraordinary cuisine while in Sikkim. This dish pairs perfectly with cooked rice.
Where to dine: Delight Hotels Restaurant, Hill Queen
15. Niguru With Churpi
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
When discussing local Sikkim cuisine, Niguru with Churpi is an absolute must-try! This household dish is incredibly delightful and captures the authentic essence of Sikkim. It is a fermented food in which cheese is cooked with the fiddlehead fern.
Where to dine: Local markets
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16. Chhurpi Broth
: Rupashree for Wikimedia
It is a delectable and appetizing broth made of cottage cheese. This is one of the customary dishes of Sikkim and is presented as a welcome beverage to visitors. Cheese and panache phoran are the main ingredients of this broth. It is garnished with cilantro leaves which adds a revitalizing touch to this broth. This is one of the most renowned traditional dishes of Sikkim.
Where to dine: Roadside food stalls
17. Bamboo Shoot Curry
: Tokumeigakarinoaoshima for Wikimedia
Bamboo Shoot Curry is a fundamental dish of Sikkim and fermented bamboo is used to prepare this delectable curry. Turmeric is added to the curry to eliminate the bitter taste of bamboo shoots. Also known as Tama Curry, you can find this dish at several places in Sikkim.
Where to dine: Bamboo Shoot
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18. Sikkim Tea
Who doesn’t want to savor delicious Sikkim tea while staying here? Rich in flavors, the tea is prepared from the tea garden called Temi tea garden. Being served in unique customary cups, this is one of the most exceptional beverages to try in Sikkim!
Where to try: Tea stalls at MG Market
19. Shimi Ko Achar
: Pixinio
Disclaimer: The image is for illustration purposes only.
Best accompanied with seal roti (bread), Shimi ko achar is a kind of pickle made of string bean (locally known as Shimi) and seasoned with green chillies, sesame seeds, and lemon juice. This is among the famed vegetarian food in sikkim.
Where to try: Local food shops
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20. Jaanr
: Pikist
Disclaimer: The image is for illustration purposes only.
Another customary beverage of Sikkim is Jaanr that is served in a variety of options at local shops. Makai ko Jaanr, Bhaate Jaanr, Simal tarul ko Jaanr, Gahun ko Jaanr, Jahun ko Jaanr, etc. are the most famous among tourists.
Where to try: Local stalls
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Go ahead and explore the numerous flavorsome and appetizing Sikkim food items while you are vacationing at this astounding destination in India. The list of the Sikkimese culinary delights keeps growing with many variations that can be relished while in different parts of the state. So, explore Sikkim food and culture, book your holiday to Sikkim with Fred and Fuzzys and relish the various local delightful flavors.
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