Ladakh food guide: What to eat and where
What's the story
Drass, aka "The Gateway to Ladakh," is not just India's coldest inhabited place, but it also boasts a unique street breakfast culture.
Nestled in the cold desert region of India, this town serves up a melting pot of flavors with Tibetan, Indian, and local cuisines.
Its street food scene is a hidden gem for foodies, offering comfort and warmth with every bite.
Bazaar stroll
A morning walk through Drass bazaars
A morning walk through the busy bazaars of Drass can be a culinary treasure hunt.
The air is perfumed with the scent of freshly baked breads like tigmo and khambir, traditionally enjoyed with a warming cup of salty butter tea or gur gur chai.
These local delicacies are more than just meals; they are a means of acclimatization and a source of energy in the cold desert climate.
Butter tea breakfast
Savoring butter tea and local breads
A traditional breakfast in Drass can't be missed out! You gotta have that butter tea, my friend.
This special drink is created by churning butter, salt, and tea leaves into a harmonious blend.
Enjoy it with some local breads like tigmo (fermented steamed bread) and you've got yourself a cozy start to the day for just around ₹50/serving.
Warm delights
Street vendors' warm delights
Even on a chilly morning, street vendors have their stalls ready by 7:00 am, serving piping hot delicacies that are guaranteed to start your day off right.
You can enjoy everything from hot momos stuffed with fresh local vegetables or meat to thukpa (a warming noodle soup), with dishes priced at a reasonable ₹70-₹100.
Regional flavors
Exploring regional specialties
Aside from the standard fare, Drass's breakfast scene offers regional delicacies showcasing its vibrant cultural heritage.
A Ladakhi specialty, sku, is a hearty stew featuring wheat flour dough balls simmered in vegetable or meat broth. This warming dish is a winter favorite.
For a truly local experience, try chhurpi (dried yak cheese) paired with homemade apricot jam.
It costs about ₹80 per serving, but the taste is priceless!
Breakfast tips
Tips for enjoying street breakfasts in Drass
To truly experience Drass's street breakfast culture, you need to start early before stalls run out of fresh supplies.
Dress warmly against the chill and carry cash, as most vendors don't accept digital payments.
Never forget to thank the vendors; their hard work allows you to enjoy these frosty feasts in one of India's coldest regions.