The northern parts of Indian are guarded by beautiful mountain ranges and peaks. From Leh Ladakh to Himachal and Uttarakhand, there is no dearth of pahadon ki vadiyan in India. Did you know that Himachal Pradesh also inhabits a delectable cuisine that is best savoured in the local shops and restaurants? While there are plenty of standalone dishes that feature the list when it comes to Himachali fare, it is the dham that tops the charts. Dham, for those untouched by the phenomenon, is traditional Himachali meal that consists of pure vegetarian dishes that provided a well-balanced diet to the eater.
The origins of dham date back to the time of King Jaistambh’s rule wherein he was so fascinated by the wazwan tradition in Kashmir that expressed his desire to enjoy a similar vegetarian feast back home. The cooks in his kitchen worked hard to come up with a huge platter, comprising of seven to eight sattvick dishes that would be served to their King. The best part is that the dishes are made without onion or garlic yet taste amazing. Over the years, each region of Himachal Pradesh has come up with its own version of dham, namely Chamba dham, Kangri dham and more.
On a trip to Himachal Pradesh, don’t forget to dig into the rich pahadi feast at these places.
1. Himachali Rasoi
We can vouch for this place with a pure personal experience. All the rich preparations are cooked in desi ghee and you will find everything, right from rice and lentils to curries and desserts on your plate. Located very centrally on the Shimla mall road, you can opt for their Mandyali or Kangrin dham. Apart from this, the famous Himachali bun called siddu is available in sweet and savoury versions too.
Where: 54, Mall Rd, Middle Bazar, The Mall, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001
Timings: 12 pm-9:30 pm
Cost For Two: ₹500
2. Nirmal Dhaba
This place is popular in the Kangri region of Himachal Pradesh. The authentic Kangri dham can be easily found at this place, which would include teliya maah, kale channe ka khatta and other lentils and curries served with rice. What makes the flavour so unique is the use of dhuni technique.
Where: 303, Mandi - Pathankot Rd, Gaggal, Himachal Pradesh 176209
Timings: 8:30 am-8 pm
Cost For Two: ₹800
3. Annpurna Mandyali Dham
This regional thali is best savoured on the hilly routes leading to Kullu-Manali. The Mandyali dham is a specialty of this place and your plate would be loaded with mah ki dal, a distinct madra (chickpea) preparation, kadhia and sepuvadi. These delicacies are washed down with a glass of jhol in the end, a beverage made from buttermilk.
Where: Near Bus Stand Bridge, Sundar Nagar, Himachal Pradesh 175019
Timings: 7 am- 9 pm
Cost For Two: ₹300
4. Chambyali Dham
As the name suggests, the place offers the most traditional dishes from the kitchens of Chamba. This district in Himachal Pradesh offers peaceful and scenic views along with a rich local fare. While there are several dhabas in the region, Chambyali Dham is at the top of the list. Dominated by rajmah, channa and madra, it also comprises of kadhi and chawal combination on the platter.
Where: H468+HR3, Sultanpur, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh 176314
Timings: 5 am-11 pm
Cost For Two: ₹300
5. Sapna Sweets
Kullu Manali is a popular tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh. So it comes as no surprise that there is a traditional Kullvi dham too. Best served at Sapna Sweets in Kullu, the restaurant brings together the authentic flavours of Himachal on a plate. The Kullvi dham comprises of dishes similar to the Mandyali dham only to differ in the serving method, wherein madra is served with rice first and the rest of the dishes later.
Where: Akhara, Bazar, Himachal Pradesh 175101
Timings: 8 am-9:30 pm
Cost For Two: ₹500