A Guide to The Best Local Food in Rishikesh

The local food in Rishikesh is known for its unique flavours and ingredients that cater to different palates. There are many places to visit in Rishikesh where visitors can explore natural wonders and relish culinary delight through a wide array of delightful local cuisines.

From mouth-watering street food to yummy sweet treats, the vibrant culinary scene of Rishikesh offers a plethora of local food options to fascinate your taste buds.

Here are some of the must-try local foods in Rishikesh:

1. Aloo Puri

Location: Small local dhabas and street vendors around Triveni Ghat and the main market area are known for serving delicious Aloo Puri.

One of the best places to try this dish is 60’s The Eat Story in Rishikesh.

Suggested Read: Corporate Offsite in Rishikesh

2. Chotiwala Special Thali

Chotiwala special thali is a must-try local food for indulging in a satisfying and flavorful meal. The homestays in Rishikesh provide an opportunity to experience the local culture and enjoy the authentic thali in the serene atmosphere along the banks of the Ganges.

Location: In Rishikesh, Two Chotiwala restaurants in Rishikesh located on each side of the Ram Jhula Bridge.

Price: The price of the Special Thali at Chotiwala is around Rs. 280

3. Delectable Street Food in Rishikesh

Samosas is one of the most delicious local foods in Rishikesh. This popular Indian snack with a spiced potato mixture is often enjoyed with a hot cup of tea and coffee. Samosas are a delectable snack served with Imli chutney and mint sauce, adding flavour to the dish.

Panipuri, known as golgappa or gupchup, is a tempting local food in Rishikesh. Panipuris are small, round, hollow shells made from semolina or flour, filled with flavoured water, potato, onion, and chickpeas. Visitors can relish each bite of this tasty snack. Freedom Café and various other street vendors offer this mouthwatering snack.

Location: The area around Laxman Jhula and the lanes of Swarg Ashram have various street food vendors offering these flavorful snacks.

Suggested Read: Best Treks in Rishikesh

4. Ayurvedic Cuisine

Location: The Ayurvedic cafes and restaurants are mainly concentrated around the Tapovan area, which is a hub for wellness and yoga retreats.

Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Uttarakhand

5. Continental and International Cuisine

Location: Many restaurants like The Sitting Elephant, Bistro Nirvana, 5 States Restaurant by Madras Hotel, and other establishments which are located in the Tapovan area and along the banks of the Ganges offer both traditional and global cuisines to satisfy a range of culinary preferences.

6. Local Sweets

Jalebi is made by deep-fried wheat flour batter resulting in intricate, crispy spirals soaked in sugar syrup. The outcome is a sweet and syrupy dessert where one can’t miss the crunchiness and sweetness of jalebis making it an irresistible treat.

Balushahi, similar to Jalebli, has a different texture and flavour. This traditional sweet is known for its soft layers and rich sweetness, making it a favourite among dessert lovers.

Ras Malai made from thick milk flavour is a sweet aromatic dish that offers a unique and delightful taste for desert lovers.

Location: Sweet shops are scattered throughout Rishikesh, but the market streets near Triveni Ghat are particularly known for their sweet treats.

Suggested Read: Photography spots in Rishikesh

7. Fresh Organic Produce

Location: Organic cafes and restaurants are found in the areas of Tapovan and near the ghats, where they cater to delicious and nutritious food for visitors.

Suggested Read: Things to do in Uttarakhand