13 Popular Food in Ladakh to Try in 2025 – Eat Like a Local!

If you think Ladakh is all about stunning mountains and adventure, wait till you try the local food in Ladakh! From piping hot bowls of Thukpa (noodle soup) to crispy Momos, the local flavors are as heartwarming as the people here. Your Ladakh travel package better include some amazing food stops!

Ever tried Butter Tea? It’s salty, creamy, and nothing like your regular chai! And then there’s Skyu, a traditional wheat pasta dish that’s a must-try for food lovers. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t leave without tasting Chhurpi (yak cheese) or Apricot Jam.

By the end of your biking trip to Ladakh, you won’t just take home memories and stunning pictures, you’ll also leave with a newfound love for Ladakh food. Ready to ride, feast, and repeat?

Must-Try Local Dishes of Ladakh

1. Thukpa – The Ultimate Comfort Ladakh Food

A trip to Ladakh is incomplete without savoring a bowl of Thukpa, a comforting noodle soup deeply rooted in Tibetan and Ladakhi cuisine. This famous food in Ladakh features a flavorful broth infused with garlic, ginger, and aromatic spices, combined with wheat or rice noodles, fresh vegetables, and protein options like chicken, mutton, or paneer.

A dash of soy sauce and a hint of chili make it a delightful mix of spice and warmth.

More than just delicious, Thukpa is packed with nutrients that help the body cope with Ladakh’s chilly weather. The warm broth soothes the throat, the spices aid digestion, and the mix of veggies and protein keeps you energized for high-altitude adventures.

2. Thenthuk – A Heartier Version of Thukpa

If Thukpa is Ladakh’s comforting hug, Thenthuk is its warm, tight squeeze! This hand-pulled noodle soup is a thicker, heartier version of Thukpa, perfect for Ladakh’s cold weather.

The dough is rolled and torn into bite-sized pieces before being dropped straight into a simmering broth loaded with garlic, ginger, vegetables, and chunks of meat or tofu. The result? A bowl of chewy, flavorful noodles swimming in rich, aromatic soup.

Beyond its delicious taste, Thenthuk is packed with nutrients that boost immunity and provide warmth in Ladakh’s freezing temperatures. The mix of carbs from the noodles, protein from the meat or tofu, and vitamins from the vegetables makes it an energy-packed meal that keeps you full for hours.

Suggested Read: Discover the 13 Best Restaurants in Ladakh to Visit in 2025!

3. Skyu – Ladakhi Pasta You Didn’t Know Existed

Move over, spaghetti—Ladakh has its own pasta dish! Skyu is a traditional Ladakhi meal made with hand-kneaded wheat dough, shaped into small thumb-sized pieces, and slow-cooked in a rich, hearty broth.

Unlike your usual pasta, Skyu is simmered with root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and turnips, along with yak butter for a creamy, comforting texture. Some versions even include meat for extra protein, making it a wholesome dish perfect for high-altitude living.

This popular food in Ladakh isn’t just delicious, it’s packed with energy! The combination of carbs, fiber, and healthy fats keeps the body warm and fueled for Ladakh’s rugged terrain.

4. Momos – The King of Himalayan Street Food

Momos don’t need any introduction! No trip to Ladakh is complete without indulging in a plate of steaming hot Momos! These bite-sized dumplings, filled with minced meat, vegetables, or cheese, are a Himalayan staple.

Wrapped in a thin flour dough and either steamed or fried, Momos are served with a spicy red chutney that adds the perfect kick. Whether you go for classic mutton Momos or the deliciously cheesy variants, every bite is pure bliss.

5. Chhurpi – The Hardest Cheese You’ll Ever Eat

Forget your soft, melty cheeses—Chhurpi is Ladakh’s rock-solid answer to dairy! Made from yak or cow’s milk, this traditional Himalayan cheese comes in two types: soft Chhurpi, used in soups and curries, and hard Chhurpi, which can last for months.

The hard version is so tough that people often chew on it like candy, letting it slowly soften in their mouths over time. It’s the ultimate high-altitude survival snack!

6. Butter Tea (Gur Gur Chai) – A Salty Surprise

If you think tea is always sweet, Gur Gur Chai will challenge your taste buds! This traditional Ladakhi drink is made by churning yak butter, salt, milk, and brewed tea leaves into a rich, frothy concoction.

Unlike your usual masala chai, this tea is thick, slightly oily, and has a savory kick, perfect for warming up in Ladakh’s freezing temperatures. Locals sip it throughout the day, and trust us, after a few sips, it grows on you! Beyond its unique taste, Butter Tea is packed with healthy fats and calories, making it a great source of energy at high altitudes.

Suggested Read: 10 Popular Places To Eat in Kargil: Must-Try Dishes and More!

7. Khambir – The Ladakhi Whole Wheat Bread

Soft on the inside, crispy on the outside, Khambir is Ladakh’s traditional whole wheat bread, baked to perfection in a pan or tandoor. This thick, round bread has a slightly chewy texture and a nutty flavor, making it the perfect companion to Butter Tea (Gur Gur Chai) or a hearty bowl of stew. Locals often enjoy it with butter, jam, or even Chhurpi (Ladakhi cheese) for a wholesome meal.

8. Mokthuk – When Momos Meet Soup

Can’t decide between Momos and Thukpa? Why not have both! Mokthuk is the perfect fusion of Ladakh’s favorite dumplings and its comforting noodle soup. Steamed Momos are dunked into a flavorful broth made with garlic, ginger, and vegetables, creating a hearty, soul-warming dish.

The dumplings soak up the rich soup, making every bite juicy and delicious. Add a dash of chili for that extra kick!

9. Chutagi – The Energy Booster Dish

Ladakh’s extreme weather calls for a dish that’s both hearty and nourishing, and Chutagi fits the bill perfectly! This traditional Ladakhi pasta dish features bowtie-shaped wheat dumplings cooked in a rich, thick broth made with root vegetables, garlic, and sometimes meat. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to blend beautifully, creating a dish that is as satisfying as it is wholesome.

10. Pakthuk – The Lesser-Known Ladakhi Soup

If you love Thukpa and Thenthuk, then Pakthuk is another Ladakhi gem you need to try! This lesser-known but equally delicious soup features small, hand-rolled wheat dough balls simmered in a flavorful broth filled with vegetables, meat, and warming spices. Unlike Thenthuk’s flat noodles, Pakthuk’s tiny dumpling-like pieces give it a unique texture, making it extra satisfying.

11. Apricot Jam – Ladakh’s Sweetest Secret

Ladakh isn’t just about hearty soups and dumplings—it also has a sweet surprise! Apricot Jam, made from the region’s sun-ripened apricots, is a Ladakh local food that you simply can’t miss.

These apricots, grown in Ladakh’s cold desert climate, are naturally sweet and packed with nutrients. The jam is traditionally made by slow-cooking fresh apricots with minimal sugar, creating a rich, fruity spread bursting with flavor.

12. Chhang – The Local Barley Beer

Want to drink like a Ladakhi? Try Chhang, the region’s traditional barley beer! This mildly alcoholic drink is made by fermenting barley, sometimes with rice or millet, creating a cloudy, slightly tangy brew.

Served in wooden mugs, Chhang is a staple at Ladakhi festivals, social gatherings, and even daily life in the colder months. Locals believe that a few sips can warm you up instantly, and they’re not wrong!

Suggested Read: 15 Best Cafes In Leh Ladakh That You Must Try!

13. Ladakhi Pulao – Rice with a Nutty Twist

Forget the usual spicy pulao—Ladakhi Pulao is a mild yet flavorful dish that lets its rich ingredients shine! Made with fragrant rice, slow-cooked in aromatic broth, this dish is loaded with dry fruits, nuts, and caramelized onions, giving it a subtly sweet and nutty taste.

While some versions include tender pieces of mutton for extra richness, the vegetarian variant is equally delightful. It’s definitely one of the best dishes to eat in Leh Ladakh, along with other local delicacies that will keep you energized for all your adventures!

Where to Find the Best Local Food in Leh Ladakh

Is your mouth watering already? Well, now you must be wondering where to find Ladakh famous food. The short answer? Everywhere! Yes, Leh is packed with hidden gems where you can savor authentic Ladakh cuisine, from cozy cafés to bustling street stalls. Here's your ultimate guide to the best spots for local food in Ladakh:

1. Local Eateries and Cafés

• Tsas By Dholkar – Tsas By Dholkar is a stylish vegetarian restaurant in Leh, set in an apple and apricot orchard. It offers a unique mix of traditional food of Ladakh with European cooking styles, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
• De Khambir – Specializing in Ladakh’s signature bread, Khambir, this place serves it with homemade Apricot Jam and locally sourced butter. Pair it with Butter Tea for an authentic taste of Ladakh.
• Lehvenda Cafe – A cozy café near Leh Market, offering artisanal coffee, Ladakhi-style pasta, and a selection of cheesecakes. Their apricot-infused drinks are a unique highlight.
• The Tibetan Kitchen – A staple in Leh's dining scene, The Tibetan Kitchen offers authentic Tibetan and Ladakhi dishes such as Thukpa (noodle soup), Shapta (stir-fried meat), and hand-rolled Momos (dumplings), all served in a traditional setting.
• Namza Dining – A beautiful heritage-style restaurant in Leh, known for its Silk Route-inspired local food in Ladakh and forgotten Ladakhi recipes. Must-try dishes include Mutton Yarkhandi Pulao, a tasty rice dish with Central Asian flavors, and Gyuma (Ladakhi Sausage), a special local food in Leh Ladakh.

2. Street Food and Local Markets

• Leh Market – The best place to taste the street food in Ladakh. Stroll through the lively Leh Market and grab some delicious momos, steaming hot thukpa, or traditional khambir (Ladakhi bread) with butter tea from street vendors.
• Local Bakeries – Ladakh has some amazing bakeries! Try freshly baked Khambir, homemade Apricot Jam, and traditional Ladakhi treats that pair perfectly with a warm cup of tea.

3. Homestays & Family-Run Restaurants

• Homestays – Nothing beats a home-cooked meal! Staying with a local family? Expect traditional dishes like Skyu, Paba, and Chhurpi (dried yak cheese) served with love.
• Small Family-Run Eateries – The best-kept secrets of Leh are these little, unassuming places where food is cooked with authenticity and care. Don't hesitate to step in and taste real Ladakhi hospitality!

4. Festivals & Local Events

If you’re lucky enough to visit during Losar (Ladakhi New Year) or the Hemis Festival, you’ll find stalls selling traditional dishes made with age-old recipes. The perfect way to enjoy culture and cuisine together!

5. Local Farms & Villages

If you get a chance, visit villages like Stok or Tingmosgang, where locals serve up fresh, traditional food in Ladakh made with locally sourced barley, yak meat, and farm-fresh veggies.

Final Words

As your journey through the mountains wraps up, one thing becomes clear, Ladakh local food is not just about taste, it’s about warmth, culture, and comfort in every bite. Whether it was sipping salty Butter Tea, devouring bowls of Thukpa, or indulging in crispy Momos, the flavours stay with you long after you’ve left.

From Ladakh famous food like Skyu and Chhurpi to apricot-based desserts that sweeten your memories, each dish tells a story of the land and its people. And if you’re traveling with WanderOn, rest assured your plate will be just as full as your heart, because we believe a great trip should taste just as good as it looks.