Manali, nestled in the beautiful Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, is one of India’s most sought-after hill destinations. Famous for its scenic views, adventurous activities, and rich Himachali culture, Manali also boasts a diverse food scene—from local delicacies to continental treats and bustling street food stalls. While exploring food is a big part of travel, knowing what not to eat in Manali is just as important as knowing what to try.
Mountain conditions, temperature fluctuations, altitude, and hygiene standards all play a role in determining what’s safe and suitable to consume, especially for tourists not used to the region.
In my last trip to Manali, I ate at many places which ruined my stomach, mood, and money. So I am telling you which places in Manali you should not eat at all.
Aloo Paratha from New Manali Bus Stand Dhaba
This is a place where you should not eat at all, no matter how hungry you are. The biggest thing is that there is absolutely no hygiene here, and if we talk about the taste, then it is highly disappointing.
I had ordered aloo (potato) paratha here, but I got only paratha, with very little potato, and it was also raw. But he took the full money.
15 Gulab Jamuns for 50 rupees from vendors
This is a scam. Never try this 50-rupee Gulab jamun. It is tasteless and may cause your stomach upset.
Pani Puri from New Manali Mall Road
I know, we all love Pani puri and cannot resist ourselves from eating. But believe me, don’t fall for it. It is disappointing.
These are the food you should avoid eating in Manali. Apart from this, I will share some tips to follow during your Manali trip to make it more comfortable and enjoyable.
Street Food at Night: Risky After Sunset
While street food in Manali is tempting—hot momos, spicy chaats, and sizzling tikkis—it’s best to avoid it after dark.
Why avoid?
Hygiene levels drop significantly at night as vendors often reuse leftover oil or precooked ingredients from the day. In winter, food can cool quickly, and reheating may not be sufficient to kill bacteria.
- Common culprits:
- Cold momos
- Chaat and golgappas
- Fried snacks like samosas or tikkis
- Reheated Maggi from roadside dhabas
Tip: If you want to try street food, do it during the day when there’s better quality control and higher turnover.
Seafood (Except Freshwater Trout)
You might come across restaurants offering prawn curry, calamari, or fish fingers, but Manali is a landlocked hill town far from coastal supply chains.
Why avoid?
Seafood doesn’t travel well, and freshness is often compromised due to long transportation and inadequate refrigeration. This leads to a higher risk of food poisoning.
Safe alternative:
Opt for trout, a local delicacy freshly caught from rivers in and around Manali. It’s best enjoyed grilled or tandoori-style.
Heavy and Creamy Dishes at High Altitude
You may be tempted to indulge in rich North Indian dishes like butter chicken, paneer makhani, or malai kofta after a chilly day, but think twice.
Why avoid?
At high altitudes like Manali, digestion slows down. Rich, oily foods can sit heavy on your stomach and lead to bloating, acidity, and fatigue.
When to avoid:
- Late at night
- After a trek or activity
- Before a bus or car journey through mountain roads
Tip: Opt for lighter alternatives like Himachali Rajma Chawal, soups, or grilled items during dinner.
Packaged or Unlabelled Local Liquor and Edibles
Manali is known for local alcoholic beverages like Lugdi or Chang, and some cafés offer cannabis-infused edibles or drinks. While these might sound adventurous, approach with caution.
Why avoid?
Unregulated items often lack quality control and dosage information. Tourists unfamiliar with these products can face serious side effects, including hallucinations, dehydration, nausea, or even hospitalization.
Tip: Only try these in well-known establishments where hygiene and preparation standards are clear—and only if you’re confident about the effects.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy, But Stay Aware
Manali offers a unique blend of flavors—authentic Himachali thalis, Tibetan momos, international cuisines in boho cafes, and comforting winter foods. But amidst all this culinary joy, it’s essential to eat mindfully and responsibly. Falling sick during a vacation, especially in a hill town, can not only ruin your plans but also make it difficult to find immediate medical help.
