Food History of Khaplu Palace, Skardu, Pakistan

The Khaplu Palace, located in the Ghanche District of Gilgit-Baltistan, is a historical site that showcases the region's cultural and architectural heritage. While the palace itself doesn't have a specific food history, the surrounding region has a rich tapestry of culinary traditions. The cuisine of Skardu, where Khaplu Palace is situated, is influenced by Tibetan, Central Asian, and local Balti cultures. Traditionally, the diet here is based on barley, wheat, and local vegetables, while meat dishes are also prominent, which usually involve chicken, lamb, and yak, due to the area's pastoral lifestyle.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Khaplu Palace, Skardu, Pakistan

1. Chapshoro (Non-Veg): A savory pastry filled with minced meat (often chicken or yak), onions, and local spices, often served with a side of fresh salad or yogurt.
2. Skardu's Apricot Soup (Veg): A sweet and tangy soup made using the region's abundant apricots which are reknown for their quality and taste.
3. Mamtu (Non-Veg): Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat and local herbs, similar to Central Asian manti or Chinese dumplings.
4. Gyal (Veg): A type of bread made from buckwheat flour, typically served with butter tea.
5. Butter Tea (Veg): A local specialty, this tea is made with yak butter, salt, and tea leaves creating a distinctive flavor.
6. Balti Curry (Non-Veg): A spicy curry made with chicken or lamb, heavily influenced by the flavors of neighboring India and Central Asia.
7. Thukpa (Non-Veg): A hearty noodle soup with vegetables and meat, often chicken or yak, seasoned with local spices.
8. Snacks and Sweets (Veg): The region is known for various snacks and sweets such as dried apricots, mulberries, and walnuts.
9. Arsa (Veg): A sweet, traditional bread made on special occasions.
10. Markhor (Non-Veg): Particularly popular in the north, and although it is not prepared at the Palace or surrounding establishments, it remains a traditional dish in the broader regional culture.

Top Famous Restaurants in Khaplu Palace, Skardu, Pakistan

1. Concordia II Khaplu Restaurant
   Address: Near Khaplu Palace, Skardu.
   Famous for: Chicken Yakitori (Non-Veg) and Vegetable Stir-Fry (Veg).
2. Khaplu Serena Hotel
   Address: Khaplu Palace, Skardu.
   Famous for: Ladakhi Tikkas (Non-Veg) and Barley Porridge (Veg).
3. The Highlanders Restaurant
   Address: Skardu City Centre.
   Famous for: Rubab Seekh Kebabs (Non-Veg) and their vegetarian pizzas (Veg).