Must-Try Foods In Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

The Food History of Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang)

The Tiger’s Nest Monastery, also known as Paro Taktsang, is a prominent Himalayan Buddhist sacred site located in Bhutan. The monastery, with a history that dates back to the 8th century, is built on a cliff 3,120 meters above sea level. While the monastery itself is not particularly famous for its food, the Bhutanese culinary tradition that surrounds the area is rich and characterized by its use of chillies, cheese, and a blend of Tibetan, Indian, and Chinese influences. As a Buddhist kingdom, traditional Bhutanese cuisine includes a variety of vegetarian dishes, which are very much in harmony with the Buddhist ethos of non-harm and spiritual purity. However, it's important to note that there aren't restaurants within the Monastery itself; rather, the closest dining establishments are found in the town of Paro below.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes Near Tiger’s Nest Monastery

1. Ema Datshi (Vegetarian) - This spicy dish is made from chilli peppers and local Bhutanese cheese, it's a staple in Bhutanese cuisine and a must-try for any visitor.
2. Jasha Maru (Non-Vegetarian) - A spicy chicken stew that is flavored with ginger, garlic, and chilli peppers.
3. Red Rice (Vegetarian) - A Bhutanese staple food, this nutritious rice has a nutty flavor and is often served alongside other dishes.
4. Phaksha Paa (Non-Vegetarian) - Pork cooked with spicy red chillies, often including radishes or spinach.
5. Momos (Vegetarian/Non-Vegetarian) - Tibetan-style dumplings that are either steamed or fried, filled with either vegetables or meat.
6. Kewa Datshi (Vegetarian) - A comfort food made from potatoes, cheese, and chilli peppers.
7. Shamu Datshi (Vegetarian) - Mushrooms cooked with cheese and butter, another variation of the Datshi dish.
8. Buckwheat Pancakes (Vegetarian) - Known as 'Kule', these pancakes are often served with side dishes of eggs or vegetables.
9. Mixed Vegetable Curry (Vegetarian) - A mixture of seasonal vegetables cooked in a Bhutanese curry sauce.
10. Suja (Vegetarian) - Bhutanese butter tea that combines tea leaves, butter, and salt; it's an acquired taste but essential to trying the Bhutanese way of living.

Top Famous Restaurants in Paro with Famous Food

1. Sonam Trophel Restaurant

   Address: Paro Town

   Famous Dish: Ema Datshi (Vegetarian)

2. Ajikhang Restaurant

   Address: Main Street, Paro

   Famous Dish: Phaksha Paa (Non-Vegetarian)

3. Bhukari at COMO Uma Paro

   Address: COMO Uma Paro, Paro Valley

   Famous Dish: COMO Uma Paro offers a gourmet menu that includes both traditional Bhutanese dishes and international cuisine, catering to vegetarian and non-vegetarian preferences.

4. Taktshang Cafeteria

   Address: Halfway up the trail to Tiger's Nest Monastery

   Famous Dish: Vegetarian Buffet with a selection of Bhutanese and Indian dishes

5. Champaca Cafe

   Address: Paro Main Street

   Famous Dish: Momos (Vegetarian/Non-Vegetarian)

Keep in mind that Bhutanese cuisine is heavily centered around chilli and cheese, so when ordering, you might want to specify your preferred level of spiciness. Also, many dishes are typically served with a generous amount of butter or cheese, and while the cuisine offers a fair selection of vegetarian options, vegan dishes might be a bit more challenging to come by without special requests.