Thukpa To Tingmo: Where In Leh You Can Try These Authentic Tibetan Dishes

Usually coupled together and said in the same breath, Leh and Ladakh are no different from each other. Geographically speaking, Leh district falls under the Ladakh region and is also the largest city there. So Ladakh is more or less all about Leh. For all the adventure-seekers, Leh Ladakh is the home ground where you can trek, hike and bike around with your squad while enjoying the snow-capped mountain range. A sight for sore eyes and a visual treat for nature lovers, you’d be surrounded by captivating valleys and mountain peaks, forming a picturesque landscape that remains etched in one’s memory for a long time. The Buddhist culture in the area is quite profound, given the plethora of monasteries that you pass on your way. 

Be it for peace or adventure, solace or adrenaline rush, Leh encompasses all of it in its wide trail. While every spot seems Instagram-worthy, it is the food that you shouldn’t miss out on. The geographical proximity to Tibet and sharing of borders seems to be the natural cause of such a strong influence of Tibetan culture on Leh. The cuisine is filled with Tibetan delicacies, right from thukpa to tingmo, leaving you spoilt for choice. 

Best Places For Authentic Tibetan Food In Leh 

Beyond the scenic trails and panoramic views, Leh has a penchant for Tibetan fare. Here are some of the most authentic Tibetan places in town. 

1.  Chopsticks Noodle Bar 

Grab your pair of chopsticks because you are about to go on a fun Asian trail. This place serves the best Thai curry in Leh and has the freshest of momos and thupka, do you know why? Because they don’t have a refrigerator to store. Simple interiors and classic food at your service in this centrally-located eatery. 

Where: Raku Complex Fort Road, 194101

Timings: 12 pm-11 pm

Cost For Two: ₹350

Cuisines Offered: Tibetan, Chinese, Ladakhi, Thai 

Looking for a vegetarian eatery in Leh? Lamayuru won’t just provide you with the best chhutagi and thukpa but also let you devour some Indian delicacies in case you’re feeling homesick. Do try their Sandeko momos. 

Where: Fort Road Opp Hotel Yak Tail, Leh, 194101

Timings: 8 am-10 pm

Cost For Two: ₹600

Cuisines Offered: Asian, Ladakhi, Tibetan, Indian

You won’t be able to find a place more authentic than this Tibetan Kitchen. Pick the indoor comfy seating or outdoor views and gorge on mutton momos with some gyakok. 

Where: Fort Rd, Leh, Ladakh 194101

Timings: 1 pm-10 pm

Cost For Two: ₹4,000

Cuisines Offered: Tibetan, Indian, Chinese 

A boutique cum café concept, this is one place in Leh where you can shop and eat at the same time. Offering a range of traditional attires with a unique menu in the café, dine at their terrace and savour the famous Yarkandi Pulao in peace. 

Where: Zangsti Rd, Near Marathon office, Leh, 194101

Timings: 10 am-10 pm

Cost For Two: ₹400

Cuisines Offered: Ladakhi, Italian, Tibetan

Fresh off the produce, the Summer harvest is all things natural and tasty. The evenings are beautifully lit with the traditional décor adding to the ambience of the place. Order kothey momos and Yak cheese pizza and you’ll be tight-lipped for the rest of the time. 

Where: Fort Rd Leh, Leh 194101 India

Timings: 8 am-10 pm

Cost For Two: ₹1,000

Cuisines Offered: Indian, Asian, Tibetan 

Run by a Tibetan family, you are sure to get amazed by the authentic flavours served to you here. Try their mutton kothey and chicken kothey with the spicy dip and you’ll love it. Also, try the Ema datchi if you get a chance. 

Where: LBA shagaran complex, near Axis Bank, Leh, 194101

Timings: 10 am-10:30 pm

Cost For Two: ₹800

Cuisines Offered: Tibetan, Chinese, Asian

A small, cutesy eatery overlooking the beautiful mountains, Tenzin Dickey Tibetan is all about thukpa, shapta and momos. Try their kare kare and fried rice too. 

Where: Fort Rd, Leh, 194101 ladakh

Timings: 9 am-10 pm

Cost For Two: ₹500

Cuisines Offered: Tibetan, Pan-Asian