Planning a trip to Tawang in 2026? While the snow-capped passes and monasteries are breathtaking, the local food is something every traveler should experience.
Influenced by Tibetan and Monpa traditions, the cuisine of Arunachal Pradesh is simple, warm, and perfect for the mountain climate.
Here are 8 must-try foods in Tawang that every tourist should add to their food bucket list.
1. Thukpa – The Classic Himalayan Noodle Soup
A steaming bowl of thukpa is the ultimate comfort food in Tawang. Made with noodles, vegetables, and sometimes chicken or pork, it’s perfect for cold evenings.
2. Momos – Tawang’s Favorite Street Snack
Soft steamed dumplings served with spicy chutney are available almost everywhere. They’re affordable, filling, and loved by both locals and tourists.
3. Gyapa Khazi – Tibetan-Style Fried Rice
This rich and flavorful fried rice includes vegetables, meat, and aromatic spices. It’s a hearty meal after exploring the town.
4. Zan – Traditional Monpa Staple
Zan is a nutritious dish made from millet or wheat flour, usually eaten with vegetables or meat. It reflects the authentic tribal food culture of the region.
5. Puta – Traditional Bamboo-Steamed Rice Cake
Puta is a traditional steamed rice cake often prepared in bamboo tubes using simple local ingredients. It’s light, mildly smoky in flavor, and gives travelers an authentic taste of Arunachal’s tribal cuisine.
6. Lukter – Traditional Smoked Meat of Tawang
Lukter is a popular Monpa dish in Tawang made from dried or smoked meat mixed with chillies and local spices. It has a bold, smoky flavor and is usually served with rice, making it a warming, authentic mountain delicacy in Tawang.
7. Guguni – Spicy Chickpea Curry of Tawang
Guguni is a popular Monpa dish in Tawang made from chickpeas cooked with mild spices, local herbs, and sometimes meat. It has a hearty, slightly spicy flavor and is typically served with rice. Light yet filling, Guguni is perfect for travelers seeking authentic Tawang flavors in a traditional setting.
8. Mala Roti – Traditional Flatbread
Mala Roti is a soft, slightly sweet flatbread from Tawang, made with wheat flour and lightly cooked on a griddle. It’s a popular snack or breakfast item and pairs perfectly with local teas or curries, offering a simple taste of Monpa cuisine.
Tawang’s cuisine is influenced by Tibetan and Monpa traditions, offering simple, warm, and hearty dishes perfect for the mountain climate. From steaming bowls of thukpa to traditional Monpa specialties, tasting local food is an essential part of the travel experience.
Seafood is less common in Tawang, but some local rivers and markets offer fresh fish dishes cooked with local herbs and bamboo shoots. Travelers who love fish can request it at homestays or local Monpa restaurants, where available.
1. The Dragon Restaurant – Nehru Market, Tawang
Famous for Thukpa and vegetarian Momos.
2. Orange Restaurant & Lounge Bar – Near Old Market, Tawang Town
Offers Indian and continental dishes with vegetarian options.
3. Yasang Tasty Bite – Old Market, Tawang
Serves Indian, Asian, and Tibetan cuisines, including vegetarian Gyapa Khazi.
4. Snow Lion Restaurant – Tawang-Chu Area
Known for Tibetan bread (Balep Korkun) and other vegetarian delicacies.
5. Annapurna Restaurant – Nehru Market, Tawang
Famous for vegetarian Thalis, Zan, and Churpi.
Conclusion
A trip to Tawang in 2026 isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s a culinary journey through the Himalayas. From warm thukpa and momos to tribal staples like Zan, Puta, and Lukter, the food reflects the culture, climate, and traditions of the Monpa and Tibetan communities.
So, while exploring the snow-capped passes, serene lakes, and monasteries, don’t forget to indulge in Tawang’s unique flavors—your taste buds will thank you!
Hi, I am Thahasin, a blog writer sharing travel guides, best places to visit, and local food recommendations.