Top dining spots in the Himalayas – Manali, India

Located just 3 kilometers from the heart of Manali, on the slopes of the 1893-meter-high Prini hills, you'll find the exquisite hotel and restaurant complex known as The Whitestone Resorts. The surroundings offer breathtaking mountain vistas with apple orchards and fields, against the backdrop of the Himalayan slopes, lush and green in summer, and blanketed in snow during winter.

You can choose from stylish rooms or standalone cottages, designed in a Swiss chalet-inspired style. Abundant use of wood, fine textiles, plush carpets, and cozy lighting sets this space apart from all others in this remote Indian haven.

At Ruthay Bagad, you'll be treated to Indian, Chinese, and continental dishes expertly prepared by local chefs. Sample traditional chicken tikka or the vegan alternative hara bhara kabab, made from chana dal, green peas, paneer, spinach, and plain flour. Caesar salad and paneer shashlik are popular among European guests seeking refuge in this tranquil getaway, far from the bustle of Manali. Yet, everything you need remains within easy reach, making it perfect for those in search of Zen in a comfortable setting of northern India’s hinterland.

IL Forno is a family-owned Italian restaurant located amidst scenic apple orchards, just 1.5 kilometers from Old Manali. What truly stands out is the building itself – a generational lodge built in 1860, showcasing the unique Western Himalayan Kathkuni architectural style that contrasts with the town's simpler designs. The stone ground floor beautifully complements the balconies and terraces made of solid wooden beams adorned with intricate carvings and decorations. Its significance grows even more apparent when you discover that it's one of the few structures that survived the devastating Kangra Earthquake of 1905.

Inside, you'll find an authentic interior with wooden details and antique light fixtures. Don't miss out on trying their wood-fired Italian pizzas and calzones – a culinary experience you won't replicate elsewhere. For a cool mountain evening, indulge in one of their many creamy soups served with toasted bruschetta. Additionally, spinach-mushroom risotto and their delightful selection of eight types of lasagna make for a hearty meal. On a sunny day, we recommend taking a leisurely walk along the forest path to reach the restaurant, combining a light trek with a satisfying meal of authentic Italian dishes.

After a visit to Manu Temple, take a stroll of about one kilometer, and you'll arrive at Renaissance, Manali's top-notch Mexican restaurant. The interior, featuring low tables and sofas adorned with cushions made from local textiles, shimmering thread garlands on the walls, handmade dreamcatchers, and ethnic light fixtures, will captivate you for quite a while – leaving such a cozy place won't be easy. Pleasant and relaxing music plays in the background, the scent of incense fills the air, and the cheerful waitstaff consider it an honor to serve you to your heart's content.

Their menu showcases the classic dishes of Mexican cuisine – golden quesadillas with vegetarian and meat fillings, over 15 types of pizzas, tostadas, and a wide variety of soups and stews to satisfy all palates. We particularly recommend trying cream of lamb soup, as well as Mexican beans and peppers soup, which is perfect for warming up after a long trek in the mountains.

Don't forget to try one of their fermented beverages, which not only quenches your thirst but also enhances your microbiome, immune system, and digestion. You can choose from several types of kombucha, as well as Mexican tepache made from pineapple rind – where else in India will you have the chance to savor that unique flavor?

Just a few minutes' walk from Vashisht Temple, you'll stumble upon the incredible family-owned Rose Garden Restaurant, specializing in Italian cuisine. As the name suggests, this beautiful two-story mansion is surrounded by a garden with blossoming buds, adding even more charm against the backdrop of the Himalayas.

The restaurant's standout feature is its extensive selection of amazing wood-fired pizzas. Here, you can also indulge in authentic Italian pasta, homemade ravioli with mozzarella, and grilled trout filet that practically melts in your mouth. Enjoy your meal in the cozy dining room or order food to the blooming green garden, furnished with umbrella-shaded tables and comfortable chairs. If you're not eager to leave this enchanting place, consider renting a room from the owners on the second floor and treat yourself to a strong Italian espresso for breakfast, perfectly complemented by the fantastic views from the spacious carved balcony.

One of the oldest establishments in Manali is Chopsticks Restaurant, cherished by many for its Tibetan and Chinese cuisine served in an authentic ethnic-style setting. You'll easily spot this café along the main tourist street, Mall Road. It stands out with its pagoda-style roof, entrance painted in traditional red, and a neon sign.

Their menu features specialties like gyakok – a Tibetan hot pot with mung bean noodles, sha phaley – fried half-moon dumplings filled with meat and cabbage, shapta – a traditional stir-fried meat dish, and various others. Thukpa (noodle soup), sushi, as well as chicken or butter potato momos also make the list of favorites among regular patrons.

On a weather-permitting day, pick a seat on the balcony adorned with Tibetan prayer flags and relish your meal while soaking in the aroma of the majestic Himalayan pine trees. If you're fortunate enough to meet the owner, Wang, seize the opportunity to inquire about Tibetan culture and history. He has masterfully adapted numerous authentic recipes from his homeland to cater to modern vegetarian preferences and will eagerly share the stories behind each of them.

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The charm of Old Manali lies in its artistic vibe, array of cafés, quirky shops, and cozy guesthouses. This part of town exudes a relaxed atmosphere that appeals to both tourists and wanderers seeking a more peaceful escape. Here, you can explore and purchase locally crafted goods like shawls, rugs, and traditional Himachali clothing, with the bustling Manu Market offering a variety of these items.

Throughout the year, Manali hosts a range of cultural festivals, with the Kullu Dussehra festival being a notable highlight, featuring processions, cultural displays, and customary rituals. Moreover, due to its romantic setting and picturesque landscapes, Manali is a favored destination for couples on their honeymoon.