Must-Try Foods In Pathivara Temple (Dharan) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Pathivara Temple, Dharan, Nepal

The Pathivara Temple, located in the Taplejung district of Nepal, is revered as one of the holiest places for Hindu pilgrims. This area is predominantly inhabited by communities such as the Limbu, Sherpa, and Gurung, who have their unique culinary traditions. Food offerings, known as 'prasad', such as sweets and fruits are common in the temple premises. These practices stem from a blend of Hindu religious customs and indigenous beliefs.

While Dharan is a city in the Sunsari District, located at a considerable distance from the temple, it acts as a junction for travelers and has developed a vibrant food scene influenced by indigenous ethnic groups, neighboring India, and the local Newari community. The diet here is mostly based on rice, lentils, vegetables, and spices, with a remarkable diversity arising from the various cultural influences.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Pathivara Temple, Dharan, Nepal

Sel Roti (Veg) - A traditional ring-shaped rice flour doughnut, sweet in taste, commonly served during Tihar and other Nepalese festivals.

Momo (Non-Veg, Except Cow) - Dumplings filled with various ingredients like buffalo, chicken, vegetables or cheese, and served with a spicy dipping sauce.

Dhido (Veg) - Made from buckwheat or millet flour, this is a staple alternative to rice, often served with vegetable curries or soup.

Thukpa (Non-Veg, Except Cow) - A hearty noodle soup, often prepared with chicken or buffalo meat, and mixed with spices and vegetables.

Alu Tama (Veg) - A sour potato and bamboo shoot curry that is a delicacy among the indigenous communities.

Yomari (Veg) - A sweet treat made with rice flour dough and filled with jaggery and sesame seeds, usually consumed during the Yomari Punhi festival.

Gundruk (Veg) - Fermented leafy green vegetables, which are a significant part of the Nepalese diet, known for their sour flavor and usually served as a side dish.

Chatamari (Veg/Non-Veg, Except Cow) - Sometimes referred to as 'Nepali Pizza', it's a rice crepe which can be topped with minced meat except for cow, or vegetables and spices.

Aalu Achar (Veg) - A spicy potato salad prepared with sesame paste, green chilies, and fresh coriander.

Bara (Veg/Non-Veg, Except Cow) - A thick lentil pancake which can be served plain or with toppings like eggs or minced buffalo meat.

Top Famous Restaurants in Pathivara Temple, Dharan, Nepal

Note: The Pathivara Temple itself is a remote pilgrimage site and doesn't have restaurants nearby. Dharan is the nearest city with a range of eateries. The following are renowned restaurants in Dharan:

Restaurant Nirvana Roadhouse and Lodge
Address: Bhanu Chowk, Dharan 56700, Nepal
Famous food: Momo (Non-Veg, Except Cow)

Thakali Kitchen
Address: BP Koirala Highway, Dharan 56700, Nepal
Famous food: Thakali Set (Veg/Non-Veg, Except Cow) - Traditional Thakali cuisine consisting of rice, lentils, vegetables, and optional meat except for cow.

Grill It Up
Address: Dharan 15, Sunsari, Dharan 56700, Nepal
Famous food: Grilled Chicken Sizzler (Non-Veg, Except Cow)

Sherpa Restaurant & Bar
Address: Dharan-11, Laxmi Sadak, Dharan 56700, Nepal
Famous food: Yak Steak (Non-Veg)

Wimpy Restaurant
Address: BP Koirala Highway, Dharan 20600, Nepal
Famous food: Bara (Veg/Non-Veg, Except Cow)

Please note that while Dharan offers a variety of culinary options, for vegetarian visitors, it's always advisable to confirm with the restaurant to ensure that dishes do not contain any meat products.