Food & Shopping

Food & Shopping

Tezu offers a mix of traditional tribal cuisine and local handicrafts, making it a great place for food lovers and souvenir hunters. Here’s what you need to know about where to eat and what to buy in Tezu!

 Food in Tezu

Tezu’s cuisine is heavily influenced by the Mishmi and Khamti tribes, along with flavors from Assam and Northeast India. The food here is simple, organic, and full of earthy flavors, often made with bamboo shoots, smoked meats, and fresh herbs.

 Must-Try Local Dishes

1️ Thukpa (Tibetan Noodle Soup)

• A hearty broth-based noodle soup with vegetables, chicken, or pork.
• Perfect for the cool weather in Tezu.

2️ Smoked Pork with Bamboo Shoot

• A classic Northeast dish where pork is smoked and cooked with fermented bamboo shoots.
• Has a unique smoky, tangy flavor.

3️ Pasa (Raw Fish Soup)

• A traditional Mishmi delicacy, made with raw fish, fermented herbs, green chilies, and ginger.
• A favorite among locals, packed with fresh, tangy flavors.

4️ Apong (Local Rice Beer)

• A fermented rice beer made by the Mishmi and Khamti tribes.
• Light and mildly sweet, often served during festivals and gatherings.

5️ Bamboo Shoot Curry

• A vegetarian dish made with fermented bamboo shoots, green chilies, and potatoes.
• Has an earthy, umami-rich taste.

6️ Momos (Dumplings)

• A popular street food in Tezu, served steamed or fried.
• Filled with vegetables, chicken, or pork, and best enjoyed with spicy chutney.

7️ Khamti Fried Rice

• A special rice dish from the Khamti tribe, cooked with local herbs, eggs, and light spices.
• Similar to Assamese or Thai-style fried rice but with a tribal twist.

Where to Eat in Tezu?

Since Tezu is a small town, food options are mostly local eateries, small cafés, and homestays. Some of the best places to try authentic food include:

✔ Local Food Stalls – Best for trying Momos, Thukpa, and Fried Rice.
✔ Homestays – Many Mishmi and Khamti homestays serve traditional home-cooked meals.
✔ Small Cafés & Dhabas – Serve simple North Indian food and Assamese thalis.
✔ Lohit View Restaurant – Serves a mix of local Arunachali and Assamese cuisine.

Tip: If you want to try authentic tribal food, ask for home-cooked meals at your guesthouse or homestay!

 Shopping in Tezu

Shopping in Tezu is all about tribal handicrafts, handwoven textiles, and bamboo products. If you love authentic handmade items, this is the place to pick up some unique souvenirs.

 What to Buy in Tezu?

1️ Handwoven Mishmi Shawls & Textiles

• Made by the Mishmi tribe, these shawls have beautiful intricate patterns.
• Perfect for souvenirs or winter wear.

2️ Bamboo & Cane Handicrafts

• Handmade bamboo baskets, mats, and furniture are eco-friendly and long-lasting.
• Locals also make bamboo water bottles and utensils.

3️ Tribal Jewelry

• Made of beads, silver, and brass, reflecting the Mishmi and Khamti tribal heritage.
• Look for unique necklaces and bracelets.

4️ Wooden Masks & Artifacts

• Inspired by tribal folklore, these masks are great for home decor.

5️ Organic Spices & Tea

• Locally grown black cardamom, ginger, and tea leaves.
• Great for cooking and herbal tea lovers.

6️ Handmade Khamti Bags & Accessories

• The Khamti tribe makes beautiful hand-embroidered bags and accessories.

 Where to Shop in Tezu?

✔ Tezu Tribal Market – The best place to buy handwoven textiles, bamboo products, and jewelry.
✔ Government Handicraft Emporium – Fixed-price handmade items, shawls, and artifacts.
✔ Local Weekly Bazaars (Haat Market) – Great for organic spices, fresh produce, and bamboo crafts.

Tip: Bargaining is common in local markets, so negotiate for the best prices!

 Travel & Shopping Tips

✔ Best Time for Food & Shopping: October to April (festivals like Tamladu in February have more local markets).
✔ Cash is Recommended: ATMs are limited, so carry cash for local markets.
✔ Try Homestays for the Best Food: You’ll get an authentic taste of local dishes.
✔ Buy Eco-Friendly Souvenirs: Bamboo and cane products are handmade and sustainable.
✔ Respect Local Culture: When visiting markets, be polite and respect tribal customs.

 Why Explore Food & Shopping in Tezu?

✅ Experience authentic Mishmi and Khamti flavors.
✅ Shop for handmade, eco-friendly souvenirs.
✅ Immerse yourself in Arunachal’s rich tribal heritage.

Tezu is a foodie’s delight and a shopper’s paradise for traditional tribal crafts! Whether you’re sipping on Apong, enjoying smoked pork, or taking home a Mishmi shawl, Tezu offers an authentic cultural experience.