Food & Shopping
Jowai, the cultural hub of the West Jaintia Hills, offers a delightful mix of traditional Jaintia cuisine and local markets filled with unique handicrafts, textiles, and organic produce. Here’s a complete guide to the best food and shopping experiences in Jowai!
Must-Try Foods in Jowai
1. Jadoh (Traditional Khasi-Jaintia Rice & Meat Dish)
- A flavorful rice dish cooked with pork, turmeric, and spices.
- Often served with a side of chutney and fresh herbs.
- A must-try for food lovers who enjoy rich, aromatic dishes.
Where to Try:
- Local food stalls in Jowai Market.
- Traditional Khasi-Jaintia restaurants in the town.
2. Doh Khleh (Spiced Pork Salad)
- A healthy and tasty salad made from finely chopped pork, onions, and green chilies.
- Usually served as a side dish with rice.
Where to Try:
- Small eateries in Jowai town.
3. Tungrymbai (Fermented Soybean Stew)
- A savory and nutritious dish made with fermented soybeans, garlic, and pork fat.
- Perfect for those who enjoy umami-rich flavors.
Where to Try:
- Home-cooked meals at guesthouses or traditional kitchens.
4. Pumaloi (Steamed Rice Cake)
- A light and fluffy rice cake made by steaming powdered rice.
- Commonly eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
Where to Try:
- Street vendors and tea stalls in Jowai.
5. Nakham Bitchi (Spicy Fish Broth)
- A hot and spicy fish soup, often consumed during cold weather.
- Made with dry fish, lots of chili, and indigenous spices.
Where to Try:
- Traditional Khasi-Jaintia eateries in Jowai.
6. Pukhlein (Sweet Rice Pancake)
- A crispy and sweet deep-fried pancake made from rice flour and jaggery.
- Best enjoyed with a cup of tea.
Where to Try:
- Local bakeries and tea stalls in Jowai.
Best Places to Eat in Jowai
1. Jaintia Food Court
- A great place to try authentic Jaintia cuisine.
- Serves Jadoh, Doh Khleh, and Tungrymbai.
2. TR Restaurant
- Offers a mix of local and Indian dishes.
- Good place to try fresh seafood and rice-based meals.
3. Highway Dhaba (Near Jowai-Shillong Road)
- Serves affordable local Khasi and Jaintia meals.
- Ideal for travelers passing through Jowai.
4. Local Street Food Stalls (Jowai Market)
- Great for trying Pumaloi, Pukhlein, and Jadoh.
- Affordable and authentic food experiences.
Best Shopping Experiences in Jowai
1. Jowai Market (Iawmusiang Market)
- The largest and busiest market in Jowai.
- What to Buy?
✔ Traditional Khasi-Jaintia handwoven shawls & textiles.
✔ Locally made bamboo and cane handicrafts.
✔ Handmade pottery and decorative items.
Tip: Bargain politely while shopping for local crafts.
2. Local Spice & Organic Markets
- Jowai is known for its fresh organic produce and spices.
- What to Buy?
✔ Lakadong Turmeric – One of the world’s best turmeric varieties with high curcumin content.
✔ Wild honey & black pepper – Known for their medicinal properties.
Where to Buy?
- Jowai Organic Market
- Local farmer stalls near Ialong Park
3. Traditional Handicrafts & Bamboo Items
- Jaintia artisans make beautiful bamboo baskets, mats, and jewelry.
- What to Buy?
✔ Handwoven cane baskets & furniture.
✔ Decorative bamboo lamps and eco-friendly souvenirs.
Where to Buy?
- Jowai Handicrafts Emporium
- Local markets and roadside stalls
4. Traditional Jaintia Jewelry & Accessories
- The Jaintia community is known for beautiful silver and bead jewelry.
- What to Buy?
✔ Handmade silver earrings and tribal necklaces.
✔ Traditional Khasi and Jaintia beaded jewelry.
Where to Buy?
- Local artisans at Jowai Market
- Handmade jewelry stalls at cultural festivals
5. Traditional Woolen & Weaving Products
- Handwoven Khasi-Jaintia shawls, mufflers, and woolen caps are popular.
- What to Buy?
✔ Eri silk stoles – Locally known as "Ryndia" fabric.
✔ Traditional handwoven Jaintia shawls (perfect for winter).
Where to Buy?
- Textile shops in Jowai Market
- Craft exhibitions during local festivals
Shopping & Food Tips in Jowai
✔ Best Time for Shopping: Morning and late afternoon (markets close early).
✔ Try Local Cafés: Enjoy fresh local tea with traditional Jaintia snacks.
✔ Bargaining is Common: Be polite while negotiating prices at local stalls.
✔ Support Local Artisans: Buy directly from local craftsmen and women.
Jowai offers a rich culinary and shopping experience, blending tradition with unique local flavors and handicrafts. Whether you’re indulging in Jadoh, exploring bamboo handicrafts, or buying Lakadong turmeric, the town promises an unforgettable food and shopping adventure!
