Shimla Himachal Pradesh, India Travel Guide
Historically, Himachali food developed to sustain people in a cold, hilly climate. It features hearty, warming dishes. While many dishes are non-vegetarian, vegetarian options are widely available, influenced by the large vegetarian population in India.
The British Raj also introduced some European culinary elements, especially in higher-end hotels, creating an unique fusion.
Wheat, maize, and rice form the core of most meals.
Ghee (clarified butter) and curd (yogurt) are frequently used, adding richness and flavor. Various lentils (dal) and beans (rajma, chana) are a significant part of vegetarian meals.
Lamb, chicken, and fish are common in non-vegetarian dishes, often prepared in thick gravies or slow-cooked. Cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, red chilies, and turmeric flavor the food, with moderate spice levels.
This local bread, made from fermented wheat flour, is an unique Himachali specialty. It is typically stuffed with savory fillings like potatoes, paneer (Indian cheese), or minced meat, then steamed.
Serve it hot with generous dollops of ghee (clarified butter) or with a side of dal (lentil soup). Look for Siddu at local eateries, especially in the bustling Lakkar Bazaar.
A traditional Himachali feast, Dham is usually prepared for special occasions, festivals, and community gatherings. It is a thali-style meal, a platter offering a variety of vegetarian dishes.
Traditionally, Brahmins (local cooks known as 'Bhotis') prepare it without onions or garlic. A typical Dham includes several dals, rajma (kidney beans), chana madra (chickpeas in yogurt gravy), kadi (yogurt curry), and rice.
Chana Madra: A staple in Himachali thalis, this dish features chickpeas cooked in a thick, flavorful yogurt-based gravy, seasoned with various spices. Its rich, tangy taste makes it a popular side dish.
Babru: A local variation of kachori, Babru is a deep-fried bread often stuffed with a paste of black gram (urad dal). Locals typically serve it with Chana Madra, creating a hearty and satisfying combination.
Sweet, milky tea brewed with spices (masala chai) is ubiquitous and a daily ritual for many.
A refreshing yogurt-based drink, served either sweet (with sugar or fruit) or salty (with spices). It cools you during warmer days.
Shimla features diverse dining experiences, from upscale establishments to casual street food, for all budgets and preferences.
The Restaurant (Oberoi Cecil): Located within the historic Oberoi Cecil hotel, this restaurant has a refined dining experience with Indian and international cuisine in an elegant setting. Expect high-quality service and a sophisticated ambiance.
Cafe Sol (Hotel Combermere): Multi-cuisine restaurant, often with live music. Relaxed yet upscale dining. Mall Road location popular, with international and Indian dishes. Honey Hut: Popular chain for coffee, tea, snacks, light meals, famous for honey use.
Lakkar Bazaar: Small eateries and street food stalls for local specialties like Siddu, momos, chaat. Lower Bazaar: Denser local eateries and dhabas for budget-friendly Indian meals.
India is very vegetarian-friendly; Shimla is no exception. Most restaurants have extensive vegetarian menus, and many traditional Himachali dishes are naturally vegetarian.
Vegan options are becoming more common, especially in tourist-focused restaurants and cafes. For strict vegans, specifying 'no dairy, no ghee' assists.
Halal meat available in some Muslim population areas, but not universally guaranteed. Kosher food generally difficult to find outside major Indian metropolitan cities with Jewish communities.
For strict requirements, self-catering or vegetarian meals are alternatives.
Some local homestays or boutique hotels host cooking classes on Himachali cuisine.
During apple season, visit orchards. Some offer tours or apple picking, windows into horticulture.
Local festivals sometimes feature traditional food stalls and culinary demonstrations.
Colonial-era hotels like The Oberoi Cecil an unique historical dining experience.
Use translation apps or carry a note detailing dietary restrictions in Hindi to communicate effectively with restaurant staff.
Larger hotels and more upscale restaurants are often better equipped to cater to varied dietary needs and understand specific allergies.
Research restaurants in advance using online reviews that mention dietary options.
This proactive approach can make dining smoother for specific dietary requirements.
Jalebi: Deep-fried, pretzel-like coils of batter, soaked in a saffron-infused sugar syrup. Best eaten hot and crispy.
Tipping for good service is appreciated.
Some local homestays or boutique hotels host cooking classes focused on Himachali cuisine.
In surrounding rural areas, especially during apple season (July-September), visit apple orchards.
While Shimla has no major, regular food festivals, local festivals occasionally feature traditional food stalls and culinary demonstrations.
When dining in local eateries, look for places with high customer turnover.
This often means the food is fresh and prepared frequently, reducing the risk of upset stomachs.
Tipping for good service is appreciated.
Refer to section 2.3 for details on local tipping customs.
Explore local food scenes with guided food walks. GetYourGuide offers various culinary experiences.
Seek out local food blogs or specialized Himachali cuisine guides for authentic recommendations and recipes.
Carry a note with your dietary restrictions in Hindi or use translation apps to communicate clearly with restaurant staff.
When dining in local eateries, look for places with high customer turnover.
