Must-Try Foods In Yutong La Pass (Trongsa) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Yutong La Pass, Trongsa, Bhutan

The Yutong La Pass, located in Trongsa, is not just known for its breathtaking landscapes but also for being a passageway that connects various gastronomical traditions of Bhutan. The food history in this region is largely influenced by the availability of local ingredients and the cultural practices of the Bhutanese people. Traditional Bhutanese cuisine typically features an array of spices, including the extensive use of chili peppers and cheese, known locally as 'ema datshi,' forming the backbone of many dishes. The Bhutanese diet is predominantly based on rice, buckwheat, and maize, with a strong emphasis on vegetables since the Buddhist population in the area follows vegetarianism or avoids certain types of meat.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Yutong La Pass, Trongsa, Bhutan

1. Ema Datshi (Vegetarian) - The national dish of Bhutan, consisting of spicy chilies mixed with a delicious local cheese sauce.
2. Jasha Maroo (Non-Veg) - A spicy chicken stew that is flavored with ginger, garlic, and onion, though it usually contains no beef.
3. Phaksha Paa (Non-Veg) - A stew made from pork with spicy red chilis and typically includes radishes or spinach.
4. Kewa Datshi (Vegetarian) - A comforting dish made with potatoes, cheese, and a hint of chili, similar to a cheesy potato gratin.
5. Momos (Vegetarian or Non-Veg) - Tibetan-style dumplings that are either steamed or fried, filled with vegetables or meat other than beef.
6. Red Rice (Vegetarian) - A nutty-flavored Bhutanese red rice, which is usually served as a staple with other dishes.
7. Buckwheat Pancakes (Vegetarian) - Known as 'khule', these pancakes are often eaten with side dishes like ezay, a spicy salsa-like condiment.
8. Goep (Non-Veg) - A spicy tripe dish, which might include a combination of chili and other variety meats excluding beef.
9. Suja (Vegetarian) - Bhutanese butter tea, a salty tea churned with butter, often enjoyed in the cold weather of the high altitudes.
10. Ja Sa Maru (Vegetarian) - A Bhutanese scrambled tofu with tomatoes, resembling the traditional Jasha Maroo without the chicken.

Top Famous Restaurants in Yutong La Pass, Trongsa, Bhutan

Norling Restaurant

- Address: Trongsa, Bhutan

- Famous Food: Ema Datshi (Vegetarian)

Chendebji Restaurant

- Address: Chendebji, Trongsa, Bhutan

- Famous Food: Jasha Maroo (Non-Veg)

Yankhil Resort Restaurant

- Address: Trongsa, Bhutan

- Famous Food: Kewa Datshi (Vegetarian)

Trongsa Viewpoint Restaurant

- Address: Viewpoint, Trongsa, Bhutan

- Famous Food: Phaksha Paa (Non-Veg)

Dragonfly Cafe

- Address: Trongsa, Bhutan

- Famous Food: Vegetarian and Non-Veg Momos

Please note that while the above-mentioned dishes and restaurants reflect Bhutanese cuisine, specific offerings and the availability of certain items can vary with the seasons and local customs. It's also worth checking if the restaurants serve an exclusively vegetarian menu or offer meat options that align with the dietary preferences of travelers.