Darjeeling is a mesmerising tea plantation retreat nestled by the mighty Kanchenjunga situated on the banks of the river Rungeet. It is a favourite travel destination for many tourists. Many Darjeeling tour operators make travelling to this place very easy. Travelling to this beautiful place will help you de-stress and get you out of your mundane life routine.
The culture and food of this place are deeply influenced by the British Raj who used to travel here as a summer retreat. Darjeeling has a wide variety of cuisines of the Khampa’s, Gorkha’s, Lepcha’s and Sherpa’s. The food here is influenced by Tibet, Nepal and West Bengal. By exploring the local food stalls and fine dining restaurants you can elevate your Darjeeling trip to a great extent.
The foods here are a bit different than what you are most used to having regularly and will burst your taste buds with a variety of flavours. You can contact with one of the top travel agents in Darjeeling and book your next Darjeeling trip to try out these divine dishes. Some of the most delicious foods that you can try out on your Darjeeling trip are-
Thukpa- This dish of Darjeeling has its roots in Tibet. It is a type of noodle soup which is served very hot. This dish is prepared using different vegetables, Hakka noodles and a tinge of spice. This dish is served in almost all the street stalls and restaurants of Darjeeling.
Churpee- This local snack is prepared using yak milk or cow’s milk. This is a Darjeeling original dish and has its resemblance to cheese and has both soft and hardversions.Sometimes Churpees are also used as a filling for Momos along with cabbages. The Nepali people cook Churpee with green chillies, onions and tomatoes calling it a ‘churpee ko achaar’.
Momos- Momos are the most sought-after street foods in Darjeeling. These dumplings are prepared with flours and cabbages and sometimes chicken or pork stuffing is a part of Tibetan cuisine.
Sael Rotis- This Nepali speciality is made especially at the time of special occasions. This round-flat piece of bread is made by using rice paste which is then deeply fried to give it the shape of a bagel.
Shaphalay- This Darjeeling food item also has its roots in Tibet. This bread has a meat filling and is served alongside a chutney or curry and vegetables.
Darjeeling Tea- When you are in Darjeeling it is a must to have the Darjeeling tea. The authenticity of this drink will help in clearing up your mind and rejuvenate your spirit and energy. You can enjoy some soothing music while drinking this tea amidst the beautiful scenery of Darjeeling to have a more relaxing time.
Gundruk- It is a very popular dish of Darjeeling and is found in almost every household of the Gorkhas. This dish is prepared using fermented leafy vegetables such as spinach and mustard. You can get a significant amount of minerals from this dish.
Dalle Chilli Pickle- This spicy dish is also known as ‘Dalle Khorsani’. You will become a hardcore fan of this dish once you get to taste it. The aroma and the flavour of this dish are going to remain in your memory forever.
Kakra KO achar and kinema- This is a local’s favourite dish. Kakra KO achar is prepared using julienne cucumbers and is served as a pickle or salad. Other ingredients used include garlic, sesame seed, salt and green chilli. Kinema is made using fermented soybeans.
Chaang- Fermented yeast is used to prepare Chaang or Tongba along with warm milk. It is served in a bamboo container with a bamboo pipe known as Pratha. This popular drink of Darjeeling has very little percentage of alcohol and has a beer-like brew.
Darjeeling is a really beautiful place for a perfect summer retreat. You can book your trip to this beautiful place with one of the best travel agents in Jaigaon and get to explore the place without a hassle. While you are on a trip to this heaven-like place do not forget to try out the local dishes which are going to surprise your taste buds for sure.