Because Rishikesh is one of India’s holiest cities, the sale and consumption of booze and meat is strictly discouraged, if not outright prohibited. As a result, Rishikesh has no bars and the cuisine is exclusively vegetarian. It’s a basic recipe, but it’s divinely good. North Indian food is by far the most popular, however influences from other Indian and world cuisines are noticeable.
Local specialties
Indian cuisine varies from north to south, from state to state, and even within the same state, despite using the same basic components. As a result, each location has its own distinct regional specialties, and Rishikesh is no exception. The samosa is one of the most well-known local foods locally. This deep-fried dish filled with spicy potatoes, lentils, and onions is suitable for both breakfast and snacking. Because of the indigenous spices, masala chai, or spicy tea with milk, is also highly popular here. Last but not least, there’s the lassi, a thicker variant of buttermilk with flavours like mango or banana.
Street Food
Street food is available all across the city and is extremely inexpensive. Many stalls offer a variety of items from Tibetan momos (the famous dumplings made from white-flour-and-water dough with vegetable filling) to samosas and pakoras. Chai and butter cookies can be found in abundance.
One such momo stall, which is quite popular with tourists, is located in the Laxman Jhula neighbourhood, directly across from the Tibetan shops on the main road. They make the traditional vegetable momos here, as well as the unique Nutella momos that will delight your taste buds. Chowmein (stir-fried noodles with veggies and soy sauce) and delectable vegetable burgers are also in high demand. Momos are around INR50, while Nutella ones are around INR100. Chowmein and burgers are also available for INR50.