Famous Food of Shimla: A Flavorful Journey Through the Hills

 Shimla, the Queen of Hills, is more than just scenic views and colonial charm. It’s also a paradise for food lovers. From warm street snacks to rich Himachali dishes, Shimla’s food scene is diverse and delicious.

If you're planning a trip to this beautiful hill station, make sure you don’t miss out on the famous food of Shimla. Let’s take a tasty tour through some must-try local delights.

Top 10 Famous Food of Shimla 

1. Chana Madra – A Traditional Himachali Favorite

Chana Madra is a classic dish in Shimla’s traditional cuisine. Made with chickpeas cooked in a rich yogurt-based gravy, it's spiced with cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and more.

Served hot with rice or roti, this dish is comforting, tangy, and full of flavor. It’s often part of local celebrations and is a must-try if you want to explore authentic Himachali taste.

2. Sidu – The Local Bread with a Twist

One of the most famous foods of Shimla is Sidu. It’s a steamed bread made from wheat flour and often stuffed with mashed lentils, dry fruits, or even paneer.

Locals love to enjoy it with ghee, dal, or green chutney. It’s warm, soft, and perfect for chilly Shimla evenings.

Also Read: Best Famous Food of Andaman and Nicobar Islands

3. Aloo Palda – Potatoes in Creamy Yogurt Gravy

Simple but full of flavor, Aloo Palda is made by simmering boiled potatoes in a yogurt-based curry. It's mildly spiced, tangy, and super satisfying.

It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or freshly made chapatis. You’ll find it in many homes and local eateries.

4. Thukpa – A Taste of the Hills and Beyond

Thukpa is a noodle soup that comes from Tibet but has become a favorite in Shimla too. Warm, spicy, and hearty, it's perfect for cold weather.

It usually includes noodles, vegetables, and sometimes chicken or eggs. Locals love it as a winter comfort food, and tourists enjoy it for its bold flavors.

5. Momos – Everyone’s Favorite Street Snack

Walk down any street in Shimla, and you’ll find momos steaming in bamboo baskets. These Tibetan dumplings are one of the most famous foods of Shimla.

Stuffed with vegetables or meat and served with a spicy chutney, momos are perfect for a quick, tasty bite. Try them fried or steamed — both versions are equally delicious.

6. Babru – Himachali Style Kachori

Babru is a Himachali twist on the traditional kachori. It’s made with black gram paste stuffed into wheat dough and deep-fried until golden.

Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, it’s usually enjoyed with tamarind chutney or curd. You’ll find Babru in many local food joints around Shimla.

7. Chha Gosht – A Spicy Lamb Delight

This is for the non-vegetarian foodies! Chha Gosht is a spicy lamb curry made with gram flour, yogurt, and a blend of local spices.

It’s rich, flavorful, and usually served with rice or chapati. A must-try for those who want to dive deeper into traditional Himachali cuisine.

Also Read: Famous Food of Himachal Pradesh

8. Tudkiya Bhath – More Than Just Rice

This is Shimla’s special take on pulao. Tudkiya Bhath is cooked with lentils, potatoes, yogurt, and local spices. It’s aromatic, filling, and full of flavor.

Often served with mashed dal and a squeeze of lime, it’s perfect for a wholesome meal.

9. Sweet Tooth? Try Mittha!

Mittha is a traditional sweet dish made from sweetened rice, dry fruits, and raisins. It’s mildly sweet and is often served during festivals and weddings.

This dessert is light yet satisfying — a perfect way to end a Himachali meal.

Final Thoughts

Shimla is not just about snow, scenic beauty, and colonial vibes. It’s also a place where food tells stories — of tradition, warmth, and culture.

Whether you’re enjoying momos on the mall road, having Sidu with ghee, or savoring Chana Madra at a local dhaba, each dish offers a unique taste of the hills.

So, when you're in town, don’t just enjoy the views. Take a bite of the famous food of Shimla and make your trip truly memorable.

Happy eating!