Food In Lachung

Food History of Lachung, Sikkim, India

Lachung, a picturesque town in North Sikkim, has a rich culinary tradition that blends Tibetan, Nepalese, and indigenous Sikkimese influences. The food here mirrors the simplicity and the warmth of its people. Historically, the harsh climatic conditions and rugged terrain have shaped the eating habits of the locals. Emphasis has always been on locally sourced ingredients, with a focus on grains like barley and millets, dairy products, and vegetables that can withstand cold temperatures. Traditional dishes often have a subtle flavor with fermented foods being a staple, leveraging the natural process to preserve food for the long winters. Yak meat is a common source of protein in non-vegetarian dishes, while lentils and legumes are staples for vegetarians. The culinary practices in Lachung have always been intertwined with the cultural rituals and the agrarian lifestyle of the people, celebrating the bounty that their hard work yields.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Lachung, Sikkim

1. Thukpa (Non-Veg) - A hearty noodle soup enriched with vegetables and chunks of chicken or other meats except cow, making it a comforting meal in the cold climate.
2. Momos (Veg/Non-Veg) - These Tibetan-style dumplings are stuffed with vegetables or non-cow meats, combined with aromatic herbs and spices.
3. Phagshapa (Non-Veg) - A strip of pork fat stewed with radishes and dried chillies, this dish is a flavorful burst of heat and rich textures.
4. Sha Phaley (Non-Veg) - A delightful bread stuffed with ground meat (excluding cow) and cabbage, deep-fried to a crispy finish.
5. Sel Roti (Veg) - A traditional homemade, ring-shaped rice doughnut that's sweet and commonly served during festivals.
6. Thenthuk (Veg/Non-Veg) - A variation of Thukpa, this hearty soup is made with handmade flat noodles, vegetables, and optionally meat (other than cow).
7. Gundruk (Veg) - Fermented leafy green vegetable, which is served as a side dish and has a sour tang that complements the plainer staple foods.
8. Skinkebab (Non-Veg) - Slices of dried beef (no cow) served either as a snack or a side dish, usually accompanied by local bread.
9. Aloo dum (Veg) - Spicy and tangy potato curry, often eaten with rice or roti, and is quite popular in Lachung.
10. Chhurpi Soup (Veg) - A soup made from the local chhurpi cheese and usually includes green leafy vegetables.

Top Famous Restaurants in Lachung, Sikkim

Taste of Tibet

Address: Lachung Market, Lachung, Sikkim

Famous for: Thukpa and Momos (Non-Veg/Veg)

Season House Restaurant

Address: Main Road, Lachung, Sikkim

Famous for: Traditional Sikkimese Thali (Veg/Non-Veg)

Lachung Continental

Address: Near Lachung Monastery, Lachung, Sikkim

Famous for: Aloo dum and Sel Roti (Veg)

Snow Lion Restaurant

Address: Main Bazar, Lachung, Sikkim

Famous for: Sha Phaley and Gundruk (Non-Veg/Veg)

Golden Valley Restaurant

Address: Lachung, North Sikkim, Sikkim

Famous for: Phagshapa (Non-Veg)