Food In Pokhara Shanti Stupa

Food History of Pokhara Shanti Stupa, Pokhara, Nepal

The Pokhara Shanti Stupa, also known as the World Peace Pagoda, is a beacon of serenity situated atop Anadu Hill. While the Stupa itself, constructed by Buddhist monks from the Japanese Nipponzan Myohoji organization, doesn't have a rich food history, the area of Pokhara in which it is located has a diverse culinary tradition. The local cuisine is a scrumptious blend of indigenous Newari, ethnic Gurung, and Thakali cultures, featuring a wide array of vegetarian delights as well as chicken, buffalo, and fish dishes.

Farmers in the Pokhara Valley often grow rice, lentils, and vegetables, ingredients that are staples in local dishes. With religious influences, especially Hinduism and Buddhism, there is an emphasis on vegetarian and lacto-vegetarian meals, utilizing an abundance of fresh herbs and spices. It's also important to note that many locals abstain from cow beef due to religious reasons.

Top 10 Food Dishes in Pokhara Shanti Stupa, Pokhara, Nepal

• Dal Bhat (Veg) - A traditional Nepali meal of lentil soup served with rice, vegetables, and pickles.
• Momos (Veg/Non-Veg) - Tibetan-style vegetable or chicken dumplings served with spicy chutney.
• Thakali Thali (Veg/Non-Veg) - A set plate with a variety of dishes such as lentils, rice, vegetables, and a choice of meat, excluding cow beef.
• Dhido (Veg) - A traditional and nutritious dish made of buckwheat or millet, served with vegetable curries and homemade pickles.
• Sel Roti (Veg) - A sweet, ring-shaped rice doughnut that is a popular snack or breakfast item.
• Yomari (Veg) - A sweet dumpling made of rice flour with a filling of molasses and sesame seeds.
• Chapati (Veg) - Whole wheat flatbread that is a common accompaniment to various curries and vegetable dishes.
• Tandoori Chicken (Non-Veg) - Chicken marinated in spices and yogurt, then roasted in a tandoor (clay oven).
• Vegetable Pulao (Veg) - A flavorful rice dish cooked with mixed vegetables and aromatic spices.
• Alu Tama (Veg) - A unique and traditional soup made from potatoes and fermented bamboo shoots, often accompanied by beans.

Top Restaurants in Pokhara Shanti Stupa, Pokhara, Nepal

1. Moondance Restaurant
   Address: Lakeside, Pokhara 33700, Nepal
   Famous Food: Grilled Fish (Non-Veg)
2. The Harbor Restaurant
   Address: Lakeside Road, Pokhara 33411, Nepal
   Famous Food: Chicken Sizzler (Non-Veg)
3. Cafe Concerto
   Address: Lakeside, Pokhara 33700, Nepal
   Famous Food: Margherita Pizza (Veg)
4. OR2K Pokhara
   Address: Lakeside, Pokhara 33700, Nepal
   Famous Food: Middle Eastern Platter (Veg)
5. Busy Bee Cafe
   Address: Lakeside, Baidam 6, Pokhara 33700, Nepal
   Famous Food: Barbecued Ribs (Non-Veg)

For those visiting the Shanti Stupa, some of these restaurants are conveniently located in the Lakeside area of Pokhara, providing a stunning view of the Phewa Lake and an opportunity to taste the flavors of the region after exploring the serene Peace Pagoda.