Chitwan is more than just wildlife and jungle safaris — it’s also a place to explore Nepal’s earthy, authentic flavors. From spicy Tharu dishes to wholesome Nepali thalis, here are the must-try local foods and best restaurants in Chitwan for Indian travelers who love to eat local.
1. Tharu Set Meal
Why visit: Traditional meal of the indigenous Tharu community featuring rice, lentils, spicy pickles, and meat or fish.
Highlights: – Local river fish curry – Roasted black lentils – Wild vegetables
Timing: 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Try Tharu Cultural Restaurant or Tharu Kitchen (₹400–₹600 per set)
2. Ghonghi (Snail Curry)
Why visit: A unique Tharu delicacy made from freshwater snails, flavored with turmeric and mustard oil.
Highlights: – Spicy and tangy – Rich in protein – Adventurous choice
Timing: 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Available at Tharu Village restaurants or local homestays (₹200–₹300)
3. Masu Bhuteko (Fried Meat)
Why visit: Stir-fried goat or chicken marinated in local spices — crispy, spicy, and perfect with chiura.
Highlights: – Local-style meat – Served dry – Best with beaten rice
Timing: 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Head to KC’s Restaurant or Jungle View Lodge (₹250–₹400)
4. Dal Bhat Thali
Why visit: The iconic Nepali meal — rice, lentils, veggies, and meat — served with endless refills and warm hospitality.
Highlights: – Unlimited servings – Includes gundruk pickle – Vegetarian and non-veg
Timing: 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Visit Sweet Memories Restaurant or Friends Café (₹300–₹500)
5. Taas Set (Spicy Fried Mutton)
Why visit: A popular dish from southern Nepal — mutton cubes fried in oil and spices, served with flatbread.
Highlights: – Street-food favorite – Served sizzling – Comes with salad
Timing: 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Try Hamro Taas Ghar or local eateries in Narayangarh (₹300–₹500)
6. Chiura (Beaten Rice Snack)
Why visit: Crunchy, dry rice flakes served with meat, yogurt, or pickles — a staple snack in Chitwan.
Highlights: – Great with tea – High in carbs – Easy to digest
Timing: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry: Found at homestays and roadside tea shops (₹50–₹100)
7. Aloo Sadeko (Spicy Potato Salad)
Why visit: A simple yet flavorful mix of boiled potatoes, mustard oil, chilies, and coriander.
Highlights: – Vegetarian-friendly – Served cold – Often part of Tharu meals
Timing: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Try Jungle Safari Lodge or local dhabas (₹150–₹250)
8. Bara (Lentil Patties)
Why visit: A savory Newari snack made from ground lentils — crispy outside and soft inside.
Highlights: – Vegan option – Served with pickles – Can add eggs or meat
Timing: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Try local stalls in Sauraha or Narayangarh Bazaar (₹100–₹200)
9. Dhido (Buckwheat Porridge)
Why visit: A healthy, traditional dish made from buckwheat or millet, paired with meat or vegetable curry.
Highlights: – Gluten-free – High energy – Eaten with hands
Timing: 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Served at local homestays and Jungle Sunset Camp (₹300–₹400)
10. Juju Dhau (King Curd)
Why visit: Famous sweet yogurt from Bhaktapur but loved across Nepal — creamy and cooling.
Highlights: – Served in clay pots – Naturally sweet – Great dessert
Timing: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Found at dessert shops and supermarkets in Chitwan (₹80–₹120)
