Top 4 Places to Eat in Sauraha (Chitwan)

Sunset over the River - Sauraha (Chitwan National Park) - Nepal - 02
Adam Jones from Kelowna, BC, Canada, Wikimedia Commons

Sauraha's dining scene offers a delightful array of options, primarily catering to tourists exploring Chitwan National Park. You will find a blend of local Nepali and international cuisines, often served in relaxed settings with garden, rooftop, or riverside views. The culinary offerings are generally designed for those seeking comfortable and enjoyable meals after a day of wildlife adventures, appealing to families, couples, and general travelers.

1. Shantiko Kitchen

Cuisine: Nepali and International

Stepping into Shantiko Kitchen, one immediately feels a warm and inviting atmosphere. The pizzas here are a highlight, generously topped and carrying a delightful homemade flavor. Beyond the tasty food, a unique aspect is their association with an NGO, Stand Up 4 Elephants, supporting elephant welfare. The staff are friendly, and the ambiance, paired with good music, makes for a memorable dining experience. As an insider tip, you might even receive a small bowl of popcorn while your meal is being prepared.

Price: Mid-range (e.g., NPR 500-1500 per person)

Getting There: It is located within the main tourist area of Sauraha, making it easily accessible by walking.

2. Greasy Spoon Restaurant

Cuisine: Nepali and Western (Pizzas, Burgers)

The Greasy Spoon Restaurant offers a cool ambiance, sometimes featuring live music, making it a lively spot for an evening meal. The woodfire pizzas and burgers are particularly recommended, proving to be delicious choices. You can choose between comfortable indoor seating with air conditioning, which is a welcome relief during hot weather, or a small balcony overlooking the street. While it is noted as being a bit pricier, the quality of the food and atmosphere generally makes it worthwhile.

Price: Mid to High-range (e.g., NPR 700-2000 per person)

Getting There: Positioned prominently on the main road of Sauraha, it is convenient to reach on foot.

3. Friends Cafe

Cuisine: Coffee, Breakfast, Continental

Friends Cafe, with its inviting rooftop terrace, provides a pleasant setting for a relaxed meal or coffee. It is well-regarded for its delicious coffee and breakfast options. The cafe also serves continental dishes, including veggie burgers and bacon ranch pizza, with vegan options available. The staff are notably friendly, contributing to the overall good ambiance. The food is generally considered well-priced, offering good value.

Price: Affordable (e.g., NPR 300-1000 per person)

Getting There: Situated on the Main Street of Sauraha, it is easily reachable by walking.

4. Shree Venkatesh Pure Vegetarian Restaurant

Cuisine: Indian Vegetarian

As the sole pure vegetarian restaurant in Sauraha, Shree Venkatesh offers a unique dining experience for those seeking plant-based meals. The owner is known for being kind and willing to adjust dishes to guests' tastes. You can expect a variety of Indian vegetarian food, often described as having a home-cooked flavor. The rates here are considered very reasonable. It is a good choice for those looking for authentic Indian vegetarian cuisine in the area.

Price: Affordable (e.g., NPR 200-800 per person)

Getting There: Located on the road leading towards the riverside from the main Sauraha center, near the rhino statue, it is accessible by a short walk.