Wangdue Phodrang, a peaceful and less crowded district in Bhutan, may not have as many restaurants as Thimphu or Paro, but Indian travelers will still find comforting flavors in select eateries. Here are some popular Indian restaurants and food spots in Wangdue where you can enjoy a hearty desi meal.
1. Bajo Restaurant (Bajo Town)
Why visit: A well-known eatery in the town center offering reliable Indian dishes with a local twist.
Highlights: – Veg curry and rice – Freshly made chapatis – Calm and clean setup
Timing: 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM
Entry: ₹250–₹600 per person
2. Dragon Nest Restaurant
Why visit: A riverside restaurant offering Indian meals along with Bhutanese favorites.
Highlights: – Butter paneer and dal – Great hospitality – Scenic views of the river
Timing: 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹300–₹700 per person
3. Hotel Pema Restaurant
Why visit: A small hotel restaurant that serves simple, home-style Indian food for guests and walk-ins.
Highlights: – North Indian veg meals – Jeera rice and sabzi – Budget-friendly
Timing: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: ₹200–₹500 per person
4. Rinchengang Village Cafeteria
Why visit: Located near a traditional village, this local spot offers basic but flavorful Indian-style meals.
Highlights: – Dal chawal and mixed veg – Local ingredients – Ideal for lunch stopovers
Timing: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: ₹150–₹400 per person
5. Punatsangchhu Canteen (Near Dam Site)
Why visit: A roadside canteen near the dam construction area catering to Indian workers and tourists.
Highlights: – Spicy sabzi combos – Chapati available – Fast and filling meals
Timing: 7:30 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: ₹150–₹350 per person
6. Hotel Kingaling Restaurant
Why visit: A quiet hotel restaurant with a small but decent Indian food selection.
Highlights: – Mix veg curry and rice – Hot soups and chai – Peaceful mountain views
Timing: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹300–₹650 per person
7. Phobjikha Eco-Lodge Restaurant
Why visit: While mainly Bhutanese, the lodge offers Indian dishes on request in a cozy rural setting.
Highlights: – Home-cooked Indian meals – Warm service – Ideal after hikes
Timing: Advance order recommended
Entry: ₹350–₹700 per person
8. Local Eateries in Nobgang Village
Why visit: Small family-run stalls offer basic Indian-style meals for visitors exploring the heritage village.
Highlights: – Local dal and rice – Village-cooked rotis – Authentic rural charm
Timing: Daytime only
Entry: ₹100–₹300 per person
9. Guesthouse Restaurants (Assorted)
Why visit: Most guesthouses in Wangdue will prepare Indian meals on request with prior notice.
Highlights: – Custom spice levels – Warm hospitality – Dining with a view
Timing: Based on guest schedules
Entry: ₹250–₹600 per person
10. Roadside Dhabas (En Route from Punakha)
Why visit: Simple roadside stalls along the Punakha–Wangdue highway offering familiar Indian snacks and meals.
Highlights: – Samosas and chai – Quick thalis – Great for travel breaks
Timing: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry: ₹100–₹300 per person
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