13 Famous Street Foods in Manali You Must Try

Manali isn’t just about snow-capped mountains and scenic treks—it’s a paradise for foodies too. From piping-hot momos on Mall Road to local Himachali thalis in hidden village stalls, the region offers a diverse spread that brings together Tibetan, Pahadi, and North Indian influences. Whether you’re a street food enthusiast or a traveller looking to try something authentic, this guide will walk you through the most famous street foods in Manali that you shouldn’t miss.

We’ll also share how staying at Loop Inn, a boutique hotel in Manali, can elevate your culinary adventure by offering easy access to Manali’s best local eats.

Why Manali is a Street Food Heaven

What makes Manali’s food scene so special is its rich cultural mix. Tibetan refugees, Himachali locals, and North Indian settlers have created a melting pot of flavours that’s best experienced not in fancy restaurants, but on the streets.

Whether you’re grabbing a hot plate of thukpa after a chilly trek or biting into a crunchy jalebi on a misty evening, street food in Manali offers comfort, culture, and character—all on a plate.

13 Must-Try Famous Street Foods in Manali

1. Siddu: A traditional Himachali dish made of steamed wheat flour stuffed with a spiced walnut or poppy seed filling. Best enjoyed with ghee or chutney. Found in small stalls across Old Manali and Prini.
2. Momos: The classic favourite—available steamed or fried, stuffed with veg, paneer, or chicken. You’ll find them everywhere, from Mall Road to roadside stalls in Vashisht.
3. Thukpa: A warm Tibetan noodle soup, perfect for cold evenings. Spicy, filling, and comforting, especially when topped with chopped onions and coriander.
4. Babru: Himachal’s answer to the North Indian kachori. These deep-fried delights are filled with black gram paste and best served with tamarind chutney.
5. Patande: Think of it as a local pancake—soft, slightly sweet, and usually eaten with butter or jam and commonly served in village homes and some stalls in Vashisht.
6. Chana Madra: A creamy chickpea curry that’s part of traditional Himachali thalis. Rich in flavour, often cooked with yoghurt and aromatic spices.
7. Bhature Chole: A familiar favourite for North Indians. Large, fluffy bhature served with spicy chole—find this combo near Mall Road eateries and market lanes.
8. Bread Omelette & Masala Chai: Simple yet satisfying. The go-to roadside breakfast or evening snack combo is found at stalls throughout the town.
9. Maggi: A hill-station staple! Served with vegetables or extra masala, Maggi is a quick comfort food you’ll find near waterfalls, treks, and roadside stalls.
10. Trout Fish Fry: Freshly caught from the Beas River, this dish is deep-fried street-style and spiced generously. Popular near riverside shacks and markets.
11. Aloo Tikki & Chaat: Crunchy, spicy, and bursting with flavour. These street-side chaats are perfect for a quick snack between sightseeing.
12. Local Himachali Thali: A full meal with rice, madra, siddu, sepu badi, and local vegetables. Served in dhabas around Prini, Shuru, and the outskirts of Old Manali.
13. Hot Jalebi with Rabri: No street food experience is complete without dessert. The combo of crispy jalebi and thick rabri is pure bliss, especially on cold nights.

Best Places to Try These Delicacies

When it comes to finding the famous street food in Manali, a few local spots truly stand out. Old Manali is a favourite among backpackers and foodies alike, thanks to its mix of boho cafés and traditional roadside stalls where you can enjoy dishes like siddu, thukpa, and locally sourced trout. 

Mall Road, though more commercial, offers a wide variety of options, including momos, bhature chole, and crispy jalebis, all served piping hot amidst the hustle and bustle. For those seeking a quieter, more authentic experience, Vashisht village is perfect. Known for its ancient temples and laid-back vibe, it’s also a great place to try patande, masala chai, and breakfast staples like bread omelettes. 

Finally, Prini and Shuru—charming villages just minutes from the town centre—offer a more localised food trail with hidden gems serving Himachali thalis, siddu, and home-style snacks. Staying in these areas, especially at a place like Loop Inn Manali in Prini, puts you within easy reach of Manali’s best and most flavourful bites.

Stay at Loop Inn Manali – A Foodie’s Basecamp

Located in Prini village, just 10–15 minutes from Mall Road, Loop Inn Manali offers more than just luxury—it offers a location advantage for food lovers. Surrounded by peaceful hills and tucked away from the tourist buzz, the hotel gives you quick access to authentic local food hubs.

Why Loop Inn is Ideal for Foodies:

• Location: Near hidden street stalls in Prini, Old Manali, and Vashisht
• On-site Dining: Multi-cuisine restaurant with Himachali specials
• Local Knowledge: Staff can guide you to lesser-known food joints
• Comfort After Feasting: Cosy rooms, a bonfire area, and in-room dining options

Whether you’re planning a food trail or a relaxing meal with views, Loop Inn adds convenience and comfort to your culinary journey.

Street Food Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Time it right: Some items like siddu and patande are only available in the morning
• Go local: Ask locals for hidden spots instead of only visiting Mall Road
• Be safe: Choose busy stalls that follow hygiene practices
• Carry cash: Many small vendors don’t accept UPI or cards
• Mix it up: Try one traditional item for every comfort dish you crave
  

Sample 2-Day Manali Foodie Itinerary

Day 1

• Morning: Have breakfast in Vashisht
• Lunch: Momos and thukpa in Old Manali
• Evening: Trout fry + jalebi at Mall Road
• Night: Tea + sunset from the Loop Inn balcony
  

Day 2

• Morning: Siddu in Prini + chai at a local stall
• Lunch: Himachali thali at a nearby dhaba
• Evening: Maggi at a viewpoint + dinner at Loop Inn

Further Reading: Your Manali itinerary for 3 days

Conclusion

Whether you’re a foodie on a mission or a casual traveller with an adventurous palate, exploring the famous street foods in Manali is a must. From the comfort of hot thukpa to the sweetness of fresh jalebis, every bite tells a story of culture and mountains.

To make your food journey effortless and enjoyable, stay at Loop Inn Manali—a peaceful boutique hotel in Prini that keeps you close to the flavours of the region. So pack your appetite, book your room, and get ready to taste the best of Manali—one street dish at a time.

FAQs

1. What are the most famous street foods to try in Manali?
   Some must-try street foods in Manali include momos, thukpa, siddu, patande, trout fish fry, chana madra, and jalebi with rabri. These dishes reflect the rich blend of Himachali, Tibetan, and North Indian flavours found across the region’s local stalls.
2. Where can I find the best street food in Manali?
   Mall Road, Old Manali, and Vashisht village are top spots for street food. For more authentic experiences, explore Prini and Shuru villages. Staying at Loop Inn Manali gives you easy access to all these foodie hotspots.
3. Is street food in Manali safe to eat for tourists?
   Yes, it’s generally safe if you choose stalls with high footfall and good hygiene practices. Avoid undercooked items and opt for freshly prepared food. Carry bottled water and stick to trusted vendors, especially in peak tourist seasons.
4. Are there vegetarian street food options in Manali?
   Absolutely! Manali offers a variety of vegetarian delights such as veg momos, thukpa, patande, chana madra, aloo tikki chaat, and siddu. Many dishes are made using local vegetables, lentils, and wheat-based preparations, making them perfect for vegetarian travellers.
5. What is Siddu, and where can I try it in Manali?
   Siddu is a traditional Himachali steamed bun filled with spiced walnut or poppy seed paste. It’s usually served with ghee or chutney. You can try authentic siddu at stalls in Old Manali, Prini, or during breakfast hours in local villages.
6. What is the best time to try street food in Manali?
   Morning is ideal for dishes like patande, siddu, and chai. Lunchtime is great for momos, thukpa, and Himachali thalis. Evening is perfect for snacks like Maggi, trout fry, and jalebi. Street food is available all day, but fresh batches sell out quickly.
7. Can I follow a street food trail on foot in Manali?
   Yes! Manali’s main food hubs—Mall Road, Old Manali, and Vashisht—are walkable and packed with eateries. Staying at a centrally located place like Loop Inn Manali helps you explore the local food scene on foot, easily and efficiently.