Travelling to Bhutan but already missing your mom's rajma chawal? Trust me, you're not the only one! A Bhutan trip is amazing with all those monasteries and mountains, but let's be real - sometimes you just need some proper spicy food, right?
The plus side is that Indian restaurants in Bhutan are ubiquitous, and they're operated by individuals who know what you're pining for. These are not haute cuisine establishments, but they do dish out the real stuff - from rich paneer makhani to flaky dosas that taste just like mom used to make. Indian restaurants in Bhutan don't play around with spice levels either, which is such a blessing!
Vegetarian? You're sorted. Want it extra spicy? Just ask - nobody's judging here! Honestly, hunting down these food spots becomes one of the fun things to do in Bhutan, between all that sightseeing.
So when you're wandering around and suddenly miss familiar flavours, these restaurants will sort you out completely. Planning your adventure? Check out our Bhutan Tour Packages and get ready for incredible views AND amazing food!
Top 16 Indian Restaurants in Bhutan | All you need to know
If you’re looking for a place that never sleeps, Soi8 Dining is a great pick. This restaurant stays open 24/7, making it a saviour for late-night cravings. The menu leans heavily towards Indian flavours, with comforting dishes like dal makhani, butter chicken, and garlicky naan. The vibe is casual yet stylish, making it a favourite hangout for locals and travellers. The portions are generous, and the service is warm. For anyone hunting for Indian restaurants in Bhutan that serve food around the clock, Soi8 Dining should definitely be on your list. It’s reliable, flavorful, and very welcoming.
2. Star Kitchen Family Restaurant - Thimphu
Star Kitchen Family Restaurant is one of the popular Indian restaurants in Bhutan that balances homely food with a cosy setup. It’s not a fancy place, but it’s known for hearty meals that feel like home-cooked comfort. Think biryani packed with flavour, paneer tikka fresh from the grill, and chicken curry that pairs perfectly with hot chapatis. The staff here are attentive and quick, making it a smooth dining experience. Travellers often return because the food is both tasty and reasonably priced. If you’re exploring Thimphu and want a filling Indian meal, this spot won’t disappoint.
3. Chh’a Bistro - Thimphu
Chh’a Bistro stands out for its modern look while still serving soulful Indian flavours. The interiors are chic, giving off cafe vibes, but the menu is all about spices that remind you of home. Tandoori chicken and rogan josh are two of their highlights, and the vegetarian curries here are also worth a try. It’s one of the best Indian restaurants in Bhutan for travellers who want both style and substance. The staff are friendly, the presentation is neat, and the prices are fair. A great spot to relax after sightseeing in Thimphu.
- Location: Thimphu, Bhutan
- What to Try: Tandoori Chicken, Rogan Josh, Aloo Gobi
- Cost for 2: INR 1,000 - 1,400
4. Mughlai Kitchen - Thimphu
If rich curries and aromatic biryanis are your comfort food, then Mughlai Kitchen is the right choice. As the name suggests, this place specialises in Mughlai flavours, with kebabs, kormas, and flavorful rice dishes stealing the show. The portions are large, so it’s perfect for groups or families travelling together. The interiors are simple but neat, with a focus more on taste than decor. Among the top Indian restaurants in Bhutan, Mughlai Kitchen has a reputation for authentic spicing and generous hospitality. It’s also one of the more affordable Indian restaurants in Bhutan, making it a reliable stop.
5. Hotel New Grand & Pure Vegetarian Restaurant - Thimphu
For travellers who prefer vegetarian dining, Hotel New Grand & Pure Vegetarian Restaurant is a gem. The menu is entirely plant-based, focusing on hearty curries, stuffed parathas, and thalis that give you a wholesome meal. Their aloo paratha and rajma are favourites among Indian tourists who want comfort food while travelling. The atmosphere is calm and family-friendly, with quick service and fresh preparation. If you’re searching for vegetarian Indian food in Bhutan, this spot delivers in both variety and flavour. It’s also pocket-friendly, so you can enjoy a big meal without overspending.
- Location: Thimphu, Bhutan
- What to Try: Aloo Paratha, Rajma, Veg Biryani
- Cost for 2: INR 600 - 900
6. Spices Indian Restaurant - Thimphu
Spices Indian Restaurant is exactly what its name suggests - full of flavour and warmth. It’s cosy, casual, and perfect for those days when you just want simple yet satisfying Indian food. Their dal makhani, paneer butter masala, and garlic naan are particularly popular with both locals and tourists. What makes it stand out is consistency-you’ll get the same quality every time you visit. Many travellers list it as one of the best Indian restaurants in Bhutan, thanks to its balance of good taste, reasonable prices, and friendly service. A safe bet for anyone craving comfort.
7. FnB Restaurant - Thimphu
FnB Restaurant is one of those versatile dining spots where you can take your friends, family, or even go solo for a comforting meal. The vibe is relaxed, and the menu is surprisingly extensive for its size. Their chicken biryani, malai kofta, and bhindi masala are must-tries. A glass of mango lassi on the side makes it even better. Travellers often praise the quick service and welcoming staff. While not flashy, it’s one of the Indian restaurants in Bhutan that focuses on good food and easy dining. You’ll leave satisfied and ready to explore more of Thimphu.
8. Pure Veg Restaurant (Shakahari) - Thimphu
Shakahari, also known as Pure Veg Restaurant, is a paradise for vegetarians travelling in Bhutan. The food is flavorful without being overly spicy, making it ideal for families. Their paneer butter masala, dal tadka, and samosas are all crowd favourites. What really stands out here is the homely atmosphere-it feels less like dining out and more like eating at a friend’s place. For those on the lookout for the best place to try Indian food in Bhutan without worrying about meat options, Shakahari is a safe and satisfying choice. It’s warm, welcoming, and truly wholesome.
9. Hotel Jumolhari Restaurant - Thimphu
Located inside Hotel Jumolhari, this restaurant is a convenient stop if you’re staying nearby or passing through central Thimphu. It caters to a mix of Bhutanese, continental, and Indian palates, but their Indian dishes are surprisingly well done. Curries, rotis, and rice plates are always fresh and flavorful. While not exclusively Indian, it still earns a mention among popular Indian restaurants in Bhutan because of its reliable taste. The setting is comfortable, with neat interiors and attentive staff. It’s a nice place to grab a hearty Indian meal without straying too far from the city centre.
10. Hotel Motithang Restaurant - Thimphu
Hotel Motithang Restaurant blends tradition with taste. The interiors carry a Bhutanese charm, but the menu caters to travellers who want a familiar Indian meal. The curries are well-spiced, the breads are soft, and the portion sizes are generous. It’s not fancy dining, but it’s comfortable and fulfilling. This restaurant is often recommended for tour groups who want a safe option that serves both Indian and local cuisines. If you’re exploring Thimphu and looking for variety, Hotel Motithang Restaurant is a reliable stop. It offers a mix of experiences while still delivering comforting Indian food.
- Location: Motithang Area, Thimphu
- What to Try: Paneer Curry, Chicken Masala, Tandoori Roti
- Cost for 2: INR 900 - 1,200
11. Lotus Bistro - Thimphu
Lotus Bistro is one of the highlights when it comes to Indian restaurants in Paro. This spot is praised for its location, with beautiful mountain and river views adding to the experience. Their curries and daal-roti combinations are simple but deeply satisfying. Generous portions make it great for sharing, and the hospitality is warm, leaving visitors with a lasting impression. Many travellers say this is among the best Indian restaurants in Bhutan, especially for those who want good food with a view. It’s both scenic and soulful, making dining here a memorable part of your Paro trip.
- Location: Thimphu, Bhutan
- What to Try: Daal, Mixed Veg Curry, Roti
- Cost for 2: INR 800 - 1,100
12. Park 76 Cafe & Pub - Paro
Park 76 is more than just a cafe-it doubles as a lively pub, which makes it perfect for evenings out. Alongside drinks and live music, they serve a solid range of Indian appetisers and curries. It’s a great spot to unwind after exploring Paro, especially if you’re travelling with friends. The vibe is casual and fun, with good food to balance the lively atmosphere. While it’s not exclusively Indian, their curries and snacks are tasty enough to draw Indian travellers. If you like music with your meal, Park 76 is a cool choice in Paro.
13. Soechey Restaurant - Paro
Soechey Restaurant is a go-to spot for travellers who like variety. It offers both buffet and à la carte menus, with Indian dishes being among the most ordered. The curries are flavorful, the breads are soft, and the service is quick. It’s not too fancy, but the food feels fresh and homely, which is often exactly what you want while travelling. For anyone exploring Paro on a budget, this is an easy pick. With its central location and simple, delicious offerings, Soechey deserves a mention in any guide to Indian food in Bhutan.
- Location: Paro Town Center
- What to Try: Veg Curry, Roti, Dal Fry
- Cost for 2: INR 600 - 900
14. Sonam Trophel Restaurant - Paro
Sonam Trophel Restaurant is one of those little gems you stumble upon while walking through Paro. It’s cosy and inviting, with a menu that includes both Bhutanese favourites and Indian staples. Their curries are comforting, and they even serve dumplings, which makes the mix interesting. Travellers often love the simplicity here-good food, fair prices, and a home-like vibe. While small in size, it has a reputation for serving consistently tasty meals. If you’re looking for a break from sightseeing and just want a warm Indian curry with rice or bread, this place hits the spot.
- Location: Near Paro Market
- What to Try: Veg Curry, Chicken Curry, Rice
- Cost for 2: INR 700 - 1,000
15. Tou Zaiga Restaurant - Paro
Tou Zaiga Restaurant is located near the airport and has a unique charm. It’s run by chefs who are trained at a hotel school, which means the presentation and service are always a notch above. The menu mixes local produce with Indian flavours, creating a fusion that works surprisingly well. It’s clean, modern, and ideal if you want to grab a meal before catching your flight or right after landing. Their Indian curries, breads, and rice dishes are fresh and flavorful. It may not be the cheapest, but it offers good value with its polished approach.
16. Hotel Jigmeling Restaurant - Paro
Hotel Jigmeling Restaurant wraps up our list with elegance. Located inside Hotel Jigmeling, it offers a wide mix of cuisines, but Indian dishes shine here too. Their curries are rich, and the breads are served hot, making it a satisfying experience. The ambience is warm and slightly upscale compared to smaller cafes. It’s a great place for travellers who want a proper sit-down dinner with a bit of polish. For those exploring Paro, this is one of the Indian restaurants in Bhutan that combines hospitality with good flavours, leaving you full and happy after a day of sightseeing.
Food is such an important part of travel. Bhutan’s local cuisine will always have its place in your journey, but when the craving for Indian flavours hits, these 16 spots are lifesavers.
From affordable Indian restaurants in Bhutan like Spices, to stylish ones like Chh’a Bistro, to the homely charm of Sonam Trophel, there’s something here for every kind of traveller.
The next time you find yourself wandering through the valleys of Bhutan, remember that comfort food is never too far away. A hot plate of curry, a fresh naan, and a welcoming smile are waiting for you at one of these Indian restaurants in Bhutan.
