Food & Shopping

Food & Shopping

Solan is a food lover’s paradise and a great place for shopping, offering a mix of traditional Himachali cuisine, Tibetan flavors, fresh organic produce, and unique handicrafts. Whether you're looking to try local delicacies or buy souvenirs, here’s what you need to explore in Solan.

1. Must-Try Food in Solan

a) Traditional Himachali Cuisine

✔ Sidu – A steamed Himachali bread stuffed with nuts and served with ghee.
✔ Dham – A traditional Himachali thali with rice, dal, rajma, yogurt, and kadi.
✔ Chana Madra – A chickpea dish cooked in a thick yogurt-based gravy.
✔ Babru – A Himachali-style stuffed puri, best enjoyed with tamarind chutney.
✔ Sepu Vadi – A dish made of lentil dumplings in a rich spinach gravy.

b) Tibetan & North Indian Delicacies

✔ Momos – Available in steamed, fried, and tandoori varieties.
✔ Thukpa – A Tibetan noodle soup with vegetables and meat.
✔ Chhole Bhature – A North Indian favorite, commonly found in Solan’s eateries.
✔ Butter Tea – A Tibetan specialty, especially great during winters.

c) Sweet Delights & Beverages

✔ Bhagsu Cake – A caramel-filled biscuit dessert, popular in Solan’s cafés.
✔ Mushroom Dishes – Solan is the Mushroom Capital of India, so don’t miss trying mushroom-based dishes.
✔ Fresh Apple & Rhododendron Juice – Locally made fruit juices are a refreshing treat.

2. Best Places to Eat in Solan

a) Popular Restaurants & Cafés

 Haveli – Best for authentic Himachali food & North Indian cuisine.
 Location: Mall Road, Solan.

 Anand Bhojnalaya – Famous for its pure vegetarian and budget-friendly food.
 Location: Near Solan Bus Stand.

 Giani Da Dhaba – A legendary Punjabi dhaba serving delicious parathas, dal makhani, and butter chicken.
 Location: Dharampur (on the way to Solan).

 Dolan’s Café – A cozy café offering continental food, burgers, and pizzas.
 Location: Near Solan Market.

 Sher-e-Punjab Bakery – Famous for cakes, pastries, and fresh baked goods.
 Location: Mall Road, Solan.

3. Shopping in Solan

Solan offers a variety of local markets and specialty stores where you can buy handicrafts, organic food, woolen clothes, and Tibetan souvenirs.

a) Solan Main Market – Best for Local Shopping

✔ What to Buy?

• Himachali Woolens: Pashmina shawls, woolen sweaters, and Himachali caps.
• Handmade Wooden Items: Decorative furniture, carved walking sticks.
• Local Spices & Dry Fruits: Saffron, cardamom, almonds, and walnuts.
• Handicrafts: Traditional Pahari paintings, pottery, and brassware.

 Location: Near Mall Road, Solan.

b) Tibetan Market – Best for Handicrafts & Souvenirs

✔ What to Buy?

• Tibetan Prayer Flags & Wheels – Used for meditation and blessings.
• Singing Bowls – Perfect for meditation and relaxation.
• Handmade Jewelry – Silver rings, bracelets, and spiritual beads.

 Location: Near Solan Bus Stand.

c) Mushroom & Organic Market – Buy Fresh Local Produce