Must-Try Foods In Sikkim (India) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Sikkim, India

Sikkim, nestled in the Himalayas, is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines due to its diverse ethnic groups, including the Bhutias, Lepchas, and Nepalese. The traditional Sikkimese cuisine is a blend of Tibetan, Nepali and native Sikkimese food, with an emphasis on locally grown organic products. The staple foods include rice, millet, and maize. Fermented foods and beverages also form an essential part of Sikkim's culinary palette, representing a part of their cultural heritage and their adaptation to the cold climate.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Sikkim, India

• Momo (Non-Veg) - Tibetan-style dumplings filled with meat (usually chicken) and vegetables.
• Thukpa (Non-Veg/Veg) - A hearty noodle soup with vegetables and often flavored with meat. Vegetarian versions are easily available.
• Gundruk (Veg) - Fermented leafy green vegetable soup which is a traditional Nepali dish.
• Phagshapa (Non-Veg) - Strips of pork fat stewed with radishes and dried chillies.
• Sael Roti (Veg) - Traditional rice bread that is deep-fried and usually served with potato curry.
• Kinema Curry (Veg) - A fermented soybean dish served with rice.
• Chhurpi Soup (Veg) - A soup made from Chhurpi, a traditional cheese made from cow’s or yak’s milk.
• Sikkimese Sha Phaley (Non-Veg) - Bread stuffed with ground meat (usually chicken or buffalo) and cabbage, deep-fried to perfection.
• Gya Kho (Non-Veg) - A traditional hotpot recipe where the food is cooked in a pot heated by hot stones.
• Sel Roti (Veg) - A sweet, ring-shaped rice doughnut that is a festive specialty.

Top Famous Restaurants in Sikkim, India

Taste of Tibet

Address: MG Marg, Vishal Gaon, Gangtok, Sikkim
Famous Food: Momo (Non-Veg), Thukpa (Non-Veg/Veg)

9'INE Native Cuisine

Address: Enchey Compound, National Highway 10, Gangtok, Sikkim
Famous Food: Sikkimese Thali (Non-Veg/Veg), Phagshapa (Non-Veg)

Cafe Infinity

Address: Nam Nang Road, Gangtok, Sikkim
Famous Food: Sael Roti (Veg), Sikkimese Chilli Chicken (Non-Veg)

Roll House

Address: MG Marg, New Market, Gangtok, Sikkim
Famous Food: Kathi Rolls (Non-Veg/Veg)

The Local Café

Address: Tibet Road, Gangtok, Sikkim
Famous Food: Sel Roti (Veg), Traditional Nepali Thali (Non-Veg/Veg)

Mu Kimchi

Address: Ground Floor, Sikkim Plaza, Gangtok, Sikkim
Famous Food: Kimchi (Veg), Korean Grilled Chicken (Non-Veg)