Kedarnath is one of the most sacred Dham in the entire country! Located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, the holy site entices tourists through its scenic landscapes, breathtaking verdant valleys, and snowy peaks. And that’s not all! Kedarnath also has a vibrant food culture which is strongly inspired by the local Garhwali and Kumaoni communities – a hit among both locals and tourists! The food items at Kedarnath although simple are still nutritious and appetizing – authentically reflecting the traditions and natural appeal of Uttarakhand! To help you zoom in on the food scene, we’ll discuss here the famous foods of Kedarnath.
Popular Dishes in Kedarnath
In Kedarnath, you’ll mostly find pure vegetarian, Sattvic food. The fare here is both healthy and delectable – ideal for trekkers who have to take on a lot of physical stress. From your protein intake to fulfilling your carbohydrate quota for the day, the local food has got you! Here are some of the most popular dishes in Kedarnath:
1. Aloo Puri – The Most Favourite Meal of Pilgrims
This is probably everyone’s favourite dish. And the best thing is it’s readily available in Kedarnath. Get that finger-licking authentic taste with flavour-rich potato curry served hot with deep-fried crispy Puris! The Aloo dish is extensively prepared with a spicy blend of cumin, turmeric, and asafoetida – giving it a zesty tang like no other.
Moreover, it’s also recommended to have a go at Aloo Puri before trekking as it’s loaded with carbohydrates and gives the pilgrims much-needed energy before the Kedarnath journey.
Where to Try: You’ll easily find Aloo Puri as a breakfast dish at small Dhabas in Kedarnath as well as Gaurikund.
2. Mandua Ki Roti – The Superfood of Uttarakhand
While it’s important to keep things fun with delicious dishes like Aloo Puri, it’s equally important, if not more, to eat healthily. Get your hands on this highly nutritious flatbread made from finger millet (Mandua) which is dense in fibre and essential minerals. People often pair this gluten-free bread with local vegetable curries, ghee, and jaggery, for an added layer of nutrition as well as taste!
Moreover, the Mandua ki Roti keeps the body warm and is super easy to digest – ideal for pilgrims on the go!
Where to Try: It’s commonly available at Dhabas along the route from Sonprayag to Kedarnath.
3. Jhangora Ki Kheer – The Himalayan Dessert
After you have your rendezvous with the spicy, treat your sweet tooth with this scrumptious pudding made with barnyard millet (Jhangora), milk, sugar, rice, and everything nice! To add richness to its creamy texture, the desert is often flavoured with cardamom and saffron, as well as topped with dry fruits.
Also, the Kheer offers a high nutritional value, providing a perfect blend of health, sweetness, and taste. And because of its Sattvic nature, it’s often served as a Prasad in temples.
Where to Try: Eateries near temples and also at food stalls in Kedarnath, Guptkashi, and Gaurikund.
4. Chainsoo – The Protein Powerhouse
Get closer to the local culture and try the traditional dish of the mountainous state of Uttarakhand – the delectable Chainsoo! This black Urad Dal dish is loaded with protein and further raised to perfection with flavours of garlic and local spices. Its rich earthy tang is further elevated with slow mustard oil cooking that allows for all the flavours to thoroughly seep into the lentil mix.
You can pair the dish with a hearty bowl of rice or even another Uttarakhand specialty like Mandua Ki Roti (favourite among locals). And since it has such a high protein content, it’s perfect for muscle recovery of tired pilgrims.
Where to Try: Easily available in Dhabas in regions like Kedarnath, Rudraprayag, and Sitapur.
- Suggested to Read: Local Foods to Try During Your Chardham Yatra
5. Aloo Ke Gutke – The Ultimate Comfort Food
Dig your spoons and forks into soft hot potatoes that get generously seasoned with red chilli flakes. More the merrier! Although it’s easy to prepare, it tastes extraordinarily good – savoury, spicy, and crispy. After all, this popular Kedarnath dish has its roots in Garhwal and Kumaon cuisine! Boiled potatoes are sautéed with a delectable spice mix and then topped with fresh green coriander leaves to make for a hearty meal of Aloo Ke Gutke.
The spicy dish is often enjoyed as an evening snack with tea. In addition, the carb content in the dish helps trekkers keep their energy levels up.
Where to Try: Local eateries and street food vendors in Kedarnath.
6. Singori – An Uttarakhand Delicacy
Singori is yet another specialty of the Garhwal regions of the Himalayas! Made with Khoya, this is one of the most famous foods in Kedarnath. Tourists love it for its rich fudge-like texture. To add to its aroma as well as slightly influence its flavours, it’s often wrapped in Malu leaf. Pilgrims often enjoy it as a sweet little treat while sauntering through the town’s attractions.
Where to Try: Sweet shops in the markets of Kedarnath, Guptkashi, Sitapur, and Rudraprayag.
7. Bhang Ki Chutney – A Unique Flavor Burst
Don’t get fooled by its name! There’s no Bhaang or any kind of alcohol in this amazingly tangy chutney. Made primarily from roasted hemp seeds and mint, it’s given a powerful sour and piquant flavour through lemons and green chillies. And the best thing about this famous Kedarnath dish is that its nutty Garhwali touch goes very well with Dal, rice, and Rotis. Try it and elevate your whole dining experience!
Where to Try: Any local Dhabas en route the Kedarnath trekking path.
8. Bal Mithai – The Himalayan Chocolate
This is hands down one of the most famous foods of Kedarnath! Its deep brown colour and fudge-like texture have earned it a reputation of “Chocolate of Himalayas”! Although originated in Almora, Bal Mithai has a large fan base in Kedarnath owing to its rich caramelized taste and roasted Khoya flavours. And thanks to its coating with white sugar balls, it has a gourmet chocolate-like appearance which has people coming back for more! It’s no surprise it’s taken back home in bulk by pilgrims as a sweet chocolaty souvenir.
Where to Try: Easily available in sweet shops of Kedarnath, Guptkashi, and Rudraprayag.
The Kedarnath food is heavily influenced by Garhwali cuisine and presents simple, wholesome, and all the very delectable options! Deploying home-grown grain, local lentils, and dairy products, this mountainous food makes sure everyone stays energetic as well as high on protein. With a variety of dishes ranging from Khoya delicacies to lentil soups to hot potato meals, Kedarnath is a foodie’s haven without a doubt!
Frequently Asked Questions about Kedarnath Food
Q1. What are my food options while I trek to Kedarnath?
Ans. Along your trek route from Gaurikund to Kedarnath, you’ll find various Dhabas and small tea stalls. Food options like Parathas, Maggi, tea, and other Himalayan cuisine dishes are readily available.
Q2. What kind of restaurants are available in Kedarnath?
Ans. The availability of high-end restaurants is little to none. However, you’ll find a number of small eateries and stalls that serve plenty of popular foods in Kedarnath.
Q3. Can we eat non-vegetarian food in Kedarnath?
Ans. No, non-vegetarian foods like meats and eggs are strictly prohibited in Kedarnath as it’s a highly religious place. Only Sattvic vegetarian food is consumed in the sacred Dham of Kedarnath. In addition, alcohol is also prohibited there.
Q4. How much does the food cost in Kedarnath?
Ans. Food prices are a little high in Kedarnath, mostly because it’s located at such a high altitude, and transporting food at such lofty heights increases the price of the food items. However, it’s still affordable. You can avail basic meals anywhere between INR 100 and INR 300 per person.
Q5. What sweets should I try in Kedarnath?
Ans. While you’re in Kedarnath, do not miss out on toothsome desserts like Jhangora Ki Kheer, Bal Mithai, and Singori. They are very popular among the locals as well as the tourists.
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