Street Food In Manali: 10 Drool-Worthy Options To Savour

An image of hot and spicy potatoes that is used for representation purposes.

Manali is a picturesque hill station in the middle of Himachal Pradesh and a natural paradise for gourmands. Street food in Manali will surely delight the foodies and give travellers a taste of the traditional Himachali food. Manali’s alleys are full of vendors and shacks preparing and selling different local and Tibetan delicacies. To make visitors experience Manali’s street cuisine, Thukpa is warm, while Siddu is mouth-watering and savoury. Not only this, there are other lip-smacking food options that every tourist must try on their visit to Manali.

10 Street Food In Manali

Enjoy street food in Manali with must-try street snacks. It has different flavours, each delivering a unique sense of the region’s cuisine.

1. Siddu

 Siddu is among that popular street food in Manali which stands out from others.

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Siddu is a typical Himachali dish that is particularly popular in the chilly areas of Manali. This steamed bread is created from wheat flour and packed with a savoury filling that usually includes ground poppy seeds, walnuts, and spices. Siddu’s delicate, fluffy texture is achieved by fermenting the dough. Once steamed, it is served hot, frequently with ghee or chutney, making it a warm and filling meal. Siddu is not only popular among locals, but it is also a must-try for visitors wishing to sample the authentic flavours of Himachali cuisine in Manali.

Price/Piece: ₹50 – ₹80

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Kullu Manali

2. Chana Madra

Chana Madra is a Himachali dish that qualifies as a satiating dinner option.

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Chana Madra is a traditional Himachali dish uniquely positioned in Manali’s culinary scene. This rich and flavourful curry is created with white chickpeas (chana) simmered in a thick yoghurt-based stew and seasoned with fragrant spices, including cumin, coriander, and cloves. The yoghurt lends a creamy texture and a faint tang, while the spices give the dish warmth and depth. Chana Madra, often eaten with rice or roti, is a popular dish during local feasts and festivities, providing a filling and satisfying dinner.

Price/Serving: ₹100 – ₹150

3. Dham

Dham is another popular street food in Manali that is a great option for vegetarians.

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Dham is a traditional Himachali feast commonly served during festivals and other occasions in Manali. This distinctive dinner comprises a variety of foods, including rice, dal, rajma, curd, and, on occasion, a sweet dish, all served with a particular Himachali flavour. Dham, prepared by specialised chefs known as “botis,” is often served on leaf platters and is entirely vegetarian. The flavours are light but deep, reflecting the region’s culinary tradition.

Price/Meal: ₹300 – ₹500

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kullu Manali In December

4. Babru

Babru served with chutney is a famous street food in Manali that tourists should give a try.

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Babru is a typical Himachali snack that resembles a filled variant of puri and is a famous street food in Manali. This deep-fried delicacy is produced from wheat flour dough, filled with a savoury black gramme (urad dal) paste before being rolled out and cooked till golden brown. The crispy skin and delicious stuffing make Babru a delectable delicacy. Babru is often served with tamarind chutney or chana madra and tastes authentically flavoured with Himachali flavours.

Price/Piece: ₹30 – ₹60

5. Thukpa

Thukpa is a popular and delectable street food in Manali that is nutritious.

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Thukpa is a hearty noodle soup that originated in Tibetan cuisine and is popular in Manali. This flavourful meal blends wheat noodles with a savoury broth prepared from vegetables, pork, or chicken, commonly seasoned with garlic, ginger, and chilli. Thukpa, made with fresh, local ingredients, provides a warm, comfortable dinner ideal for the frigid mountain climate. Its rich, fragrant broth and nutritious ingredients make it a favourite street food choice in Manali for residents and visitors.

Price/Bowl: ₹150 – ₹200

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Manali In December For Your Winter Adventures

6. Momos

Momos with schezwan sauce is a lip-smacking street food in Manali that is loved by all.

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Momos are a famous Tibetan-inspired street food in Manali, known for their delicate, doughy texture and flavourful filling. These steamed dumplings are often loaded with various ingredients, such as vegetables, poultry, or pork, and seasoned with garlic, ginger, and herbs. Momos served hot with spicy dipping sauces, are a pleasant and convenient snack for on-the-go consumption. Whether steamed or fried, Momos are a Manali cuisine staple reflecting the region’s cultural variety and culinary influences.

Price/Plate: ₹80 – ₹150 (6 pieces)

7. Trout Fish

 Trout Fish is another flavourful food item that is quite popular among non-vegetarians.

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Trout fish is a culinary highlight in Manali, known for its fresh and delicate flavour. This fish is sourced from Himachal Pradesh’s clean rivers and is frequently grilled, fried, or cooked in a simple marinade to maintain its natural flavour. Trout fish is popular among residents and visitors, especially with vegetables, herbs, or a light sauce. The mild, soft flesh of the trout, mixed with the region’s customary spices, results in a healthy and tasty meal.

Price/Serving: ₹300 – ₹500

Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Manali That You Must Visit Once In A Lifetime

8. Sausage Bun

Sausage Bun is another grab-a-quick snack option for those in a rush for work.

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The sausage bun is a popular street food in Manali, providing a substantial and fulfilling snack for tourists visiting the hill resort. This simple yet wonderful delight is a juicy sausage wrapped in soft, freshly baked bread. The banger, often served warm, mixes savoury flavours with a comforting texture, making it popular with residents and visitors. The combination of seasoned sausage and soft bread creates a delicious contrast, ideal for fuelling your travels in this region.

Price/Bun: ₹80 – ₹120

9. Aloo Tikki

 Aloo Tikki is a famous food and when served with chutney makes a great combo.

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Aloo Tikki is a flavourful and famous street food in Manali, known for its crispy crust and spicy potato inside. These spherical, shallow-fried patties are made with mashed potatoes blended with herbs, spices, and occasionally peas. They are golden and crispy on the exterior and soft and flavourful on the inside. Aloo Tikki is typically served with tangy chutneys and cold yoghurt, providing a delicious contrast of flavours and textures. It’s a popular snack among tourists wandering Manali’s streets, offering a fast, delightful nibble that’s savoury.

Price/Piece: ₹30 – ₹60

Suggested Read: Best Places For Celebrating The New Year Party In Manali

10. Khatta Meat

 Khatta Meat is one of the quick food options for all the non-vegetarians out there.

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Khatta Meat is a unique Himachali dish recognised for its acidic and spicy flavour. This meal is made with soft chunks of meat, usually lamb or goat, and is cooked in a thick stew that includes yoghurt, tomatoes, and a variety of traditional spices like coriander, cumin, and turmeric. The yoghurt adds a delicious acidity, while the spices provide depth and warmth to the meal. Khatta Meat, one of the best non-veg street food in Manali, is often served with steaming rice or flatbreads for dinner.

Price/Serving: ₹300 – ₹500

Street food in Manali is a delicious combination of traditional Himachali and Tibetan flavours, ideal for any foodie. From savoury Siddu to fiery Khatta Meat, each dish represents a distinct aspect of the region’s culinary tradition. Explore these local treasures for a memorable culinary experience. Plan a vacation to Manali with TripXL to ensure a smooth travel experience!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Some of the best veg street food in Manali include Aloo Tikki, Chana Madra, and Pakoras. These delicacies come in various flavours and are readily accessible at neighbourhood markets.
To ensure food safety, select booths with a high turnover, avoid raw or undercooked foods, and pick freshly prepared dishes. Drinking bottled or filtered water is also advised.
Some of the best street food places in Manali include Mall Road and Old Manali, making it easy to sample local cuisine from food sellers.
Yes, there are various kid-friendly street food alternatives, such as Momos, Sausage Buns and Aloo Tikki, which are somewhat spicy and well-liked by youngsters.
While many street meals, such as momos and pakoras, may contain gluten, certain sellers may provide gluten-free options. Speaking directly with the merchant about your unique dietary requirements is preferable.

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