Must-Try Foods In Siddha Pokhari (Bhaktapur) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Siddha Pokhari, Bhaktapur, Nepal

Siddha Pokhari, also known as Indra Daha, is a historic pond situated at the entrance of Bhaktapur, Nepal. While Siddha Pokhari itself is not known for a unique food history, Bhaktapur as a city boasts a rich culinary heritage that reflects the Newari culture predominant in the valley. The Newars are known for their distinctive cuisine, which incorporates a variety of flavors and cooking techniques influenced by both the hill and the Terai regions of Nepal.

The food in Bhaktapur is characterized by its use of a wide array of spices and ingredients, including grains, legumes, vegetables, and meats (excluding cow, as cows are considered sacred in Hinduism and their slaughter is prohibited in Nepal). Over the years, Bhaktapur has become famous for its yogurt called "Juju Dhau" - the King of Yogurts - that is often consumed as a dessert. The city's food has evolved through time with cultural influences and festivities, making Bhaktapur a delightful place for food enthusiasts looking to explore authentic Newari and Nepalese cuisine.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Siddha Pokhari, Bhaktapur, Nepal

1. Bara (Veg) - A savory rice-lentil pancake that is often served with spicy achar (pickle).
2. Yomari (Veg) - Steamed dumplings made of rice flour with sweet fillings usually of chaku (molasses) or khuwa (thickened milk).
3. Chatamari (Veg/Non-Veg Options) - Frequently referred to as 'Newari Pizza,' this rice crepe can be topped with vegetables, egg, or minced meat, excluding cow meat.
4. Momo (Veg/Non-Veg Options) - Popular Nepalese dumplings filled with vegetables or meat such as buffalo, chicken, or goat, served with a tomato-based dipping sauce.
5. Sel roti (Veg) - A sweet rice doughnut that is typically enjoyed during festivals but is also a popular snack.
6. Bhaktapur Juju Dhau (Veg) - A sweet, creamy yogurt that is a delicacy of Bhaktapur, often served in a clay pot.
7. Choila (Non-Veg) - Grilled buffalo meat marinated in spices and mustard oil, typically paired with beaten rice (chiura).
8. Samay Baji (Non-Veg) - A traditional Newari platter that includes a variety of items such as beaten rice, soybeans, Choila, boiled egg, and more.
9. Kwati (Veg) - A soup made with nine different types of sprouted beans, consumed especially during the festival of Janai Purnima.
10. Aalu Tama (Veg) - A sour and spicy soup that includes bamboo shoots, potatoes, and black-eyed peas.

Top Famous Restaurants in Siddha Pokhari, Bhaktapur, Nepal

• Nyatapola Restaurant
  Address: Taumadhi Square, Bhaktapur, Nepal.
  Famous Food: Bara (Veg) and Buffalo Choila (Non-Veg).
• Kumari Restaurant
  Address: Pottery Square, Bhaktapur, Nepal.
  Famous Food: Chatamari (Veg/Non-Veg Options) and Bhaktapur Juju Dhau (Veg).
• Sunny Restaurant and Cosy Bar
  Address: Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Bhaktapur, Nepal.
  Famous Food: Momo (Veg/Non-Veg Options) and Yomari (Veg).
• Shiva's Cafe Corner
  Address: Siddha Pokhari, Bhaktapur, Nepal.
  Famous Food: Aalu Tama (Veg) and Sel Roti (Veg).
• King Curd - Juju Dhau
  Address: Bhaktapur 44800, Nepal.
  Famous Food: Juju Dhau (Veg) - known for the best in town.

Note: Many of the traditional Newari dishes may include buffalo meat as a common protein source. However, as requested, the cow is not included in this selection considering the cultural and legal restrictions in Nepal.