Food History of Chimi Lhakhang Temple, Punakha, Bhutan

Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple, is not renowned for a unique culinary history of its own but is situated in Punakha, Bhutan, which has a rich food culture. Bhutanese cuisine, in general, has been shaped by its isolated mountainous terrain, with an emphasis on dairy from yaks, a variety of vegetables, and Bhutan's national dish, Ema Datshi, which is spicy and made with cheese and chilies. The food associated with the temple largely reflects the traditional Bhutanese dishes customary to the region of Punakha.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Punakha, Bhutan

1. Ema Datshi (Vegetarian): A spicy mix of chilies and Bhutanese cheese, it's considered the national dish of Bhutan and is a must-try for anyone visiting.
2. Kewa Datshi (Vegetarian): A spiced potato dish mixed with cheese and sometimes tomatoes.
3. Shamu Datshi (Vegetarian): Mushrooms cooked with cheese and sometimes green chilies, another variant in the Datshi family.
4. Red Rice (Vegetarian): A Bhutanese staple, red rice is a nutritious and flavorful whole grain that pairs well with other Bhutanese dishes.
5. Bhutanese Vegetable Curry (Vegetarian): A mix of local vegetables simmered in a flavorful blend of Bhutanese spices.
6. Momos (Vegetarian/Non-Veg): Tibetan-style dumplings that are popular in Bhutan, typically filled with cabbage, cheese, or sometimes non-cow meat.
7. Jasha Maru (Non-Veg): A spicy chicken stew that usually includes tomatoes, garlic, and ginger.
8. Puta (Vegetarian): A type of buckwheat noodles often stir-fried with spices and vegetables.
9. Goep (Non-Veg): A traditional tripe dish that is often stir-fried with chilies and spices.
10. Lom (Vegetarian): A Bhutanese dish made of preserved turnip greens that are often served as a side dish.

Top Famous Restaurants in Punakha, Bhutan

• Chimi Lhakhang Cafeteria
  Near Chimi Lhakhang Temple, Punakha
  Famous Food: Ema Datshi (Vegetarian)
• Rinchenling Lodge & Restaurant
  Lobesa, Punakha
  Famous Food: Red Rice (Vegetarian)
• Dochula Resort Restaurant
  Dochula Pass, Punakha
  Famous Food: Bhutanese Vegetable Curry (Vegetarian)
• Lobesa Village Restaurant
  Lobesa Village, Punakha
  Famous Food: Shamu Datshi (Vegetarian)
• Meri Puensum Restaurant
  Punakha Town, Punakha
  Famous Food: Momos (Vegetarian/Non-Veg)
• Yu Gharling Resort & Spa
  Bumthang, Punakha
  Famous Food: Kewa Datshi (Vegetarian)
• Punakha Residency
  Khuruthang, Punakha
  Famous Food: Puta (Vegetarian)

Each of these restaurants offers a variety of traditional Bhutanese dishes catering to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian preferences, and while not all may be in immediate proximity to the Chimi Lhakhang Temple, they are well respected in the Punakha region and worth the visit for an authentic culinary experience.