The short answer
The Thakali people of the Kali Gandaki valley are famous for their set meals: dal bhat served with local ghee, vegetables, pickle and sometimes meat. Thakali restaurants in Kathmandu and Pokhara serve it in a thali, and many trekkers know it from Jomsom and Marpha. Dishes may include dhido, buckwheat bread and apple products.
Marpha is also famous for apples, dried fruit and apple brandy. A Thakali set meal is one of the best-value, most satisfying meals for pilgrims and trekkers.
Key facts
- Meal
- Thakali set
- Region
- Kali Gandaki, Jomsom, Marpha
- Fruit
- Apples, dried apple
- Bread
- Buckwheat
How it works
- Find a Thakali restaurantIn Kathmandu or Pokhara.
- Order the setThali.
- Try dhidoIf offered.
- Taste apple productsIn Marpha.
- Ask for refillsUsually included.
Insider tip
Order a Thakali set after a long day; refills are common.
Avoid this
Do not skip the ghee if you can eat it; it is part of the flavour.
Related questions
Is Thakali food vegetarian?
There are vegetarian sets.
Where is it best?
Jomsom and Marpha, or Thakali restaurants in cities.
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