Savor the Mountains: A Food Lover’s Guide from Manali to Jispa
When you think of a road trip through the Himalayas, you likely imagine snow-capped mountain ranges, hairpin turns, and the rush of speeding through the popular Manali-Jispa-Sissu circuit. But there is another side of this adventure that can be just as impactful: the food.
From the cedar forests of Manali to the arid desert of Jispa, it is not just a change of scenery that you are experiencing but also a change of flavours. Do you have a taste for something spicy or something hearty? The culinary journey of this road is a rite of passage for every traveller.
Manali: A Flavor Mosaic
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Your culinary journey begins in Manali, a place where food, like people, is a mix of many things. Before you begin your journey towards the Atal Tunnel, try these popular Manali food items.
The Timeless Siddu
If you haven’t had a taste of Siddu, then you haven’t really had a taste of Himachal Pradesh’s food. This steamed wheat bread, stuffed with a mix of savoury ingredients like poppy seeds, walnuts, and spices, is best enjoyed with a pat of desi ghee.
Kullu Trout
If you are a seafood lover, then you must try Kullu’s famous river trout, which is caught from the Beas River. It is mostly cooked with a hint of herbs and lemon, and its flaky texture is a delight, as you will find in many cafes in Old Manali.
Street Food Stops on Mall Road
If you are hungry and want to grab some quick eats, the street food scene on the Mall Road will not disappoint you.
Babru: This is a Himachali version of the popular kachori. However, the filling is made of black gram paste.
Khatta: This is a tangy preparation of pumpkin. However, the tanginess brings a unique combination of sweet and sour.
Momos & Thukpa: This is heavily influenced by the vibrant Tibetans. This is everywhere and possibly the best for relaxing your legs after a long trek.
Crossing the Atal Tunnel: Entering the Lahaul Valley
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As you cross through the tunnel, the landscape around you undergoes a complete transformation. You are now entering the Lahaul Valley.
The Warmth of Thukpa
In the high-altitude villages of Sissu and Keylong, a bowl of thukpa—a noodle soup—is not just a meal to the traveller. It is the warmth that keeps you going.
3. Jispa: Authentic Lahauli Flavors
Jispa is a quiet stopover on the journey to Leh. Its cuisine is a true reflection of the hardy Lahaulis.
Aktori
Aktori is a treat you just can’t miss. This celebratory pancake is a combination of buckwheat and wheat flours. It is a wholesome dish usually accompanied by honey or ghee. This is the true essence of mountain cuisine that tourists usually miss.
Butter Tea (Gud-Gud Chai)
While the usual chai is sweet and spicy, the Lahaul version of butter tea is a savoury one. This combination of yak butter and salt is an acquired taste. However, it is a great way to stay hydrated in the dry Himalayan air.
4. Tips for Your Manali-Jispa Food Trail
Eat Local, Stay Fresh: It can get tempting to eat the usual city food. However, local dishes such as chana madra are a healthier choice since they are locally sourced.
Stay hydrated: the high altitude can get tricky. Be sure to drink plenty of water and herbal teas.
Carry Cash: While Manali is a tech-savvy town, the dhabas along the way may not have the best connectivity.
Travel with Voyagers Beat
Feeling like a mountain getaway? Well, we don’t just arrange your trip; we create experiences for you at Voyagers Beat. Our Manali-Jispa tour packages are just right for you if you are seeking adventure mixed with some local flavour.
