Korean-Tibetan boho café in Mcleodganj with an amazing view

McLeod Ganj or Mcleodganj, however you may want to spell it, is a town in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. This town has a large population of Tibetans (Buddhists) owing to the Dalai Lama's presence nearby - His Holiness resides at the Namgyal Monastery in Dharamshala, a ropeway distance away from Mcleodganj.

Owing to this influence, it comes as no surprise that this quaint hill station has no dearth of restaurants serving Tibetan food. But this one stands out and let me tell you why...

Cafe 129

K-drama lovers unite! This is the place you can visit to try out authentic Korean cuisine in addition to Tibetan items as well, given that it is run by a Korean-Tibetan couple. But it might surprise you to know that this Korean Tibetan Friendship café was established in 2019, before the K-drama wave actually washed over India.

Located on the McLeod Ganj main market street, this small, unassuming and partially hidden gem is aesthetically decorated giving off boho-chic vibes. With trinkets on each shelf, you're sure to spot some unique finds hidden in plain sight. Everything is all artsy and wonderful to look at. It has a mesmerising view of the Dhauladhar range from its cute and compact balcony.

Since it is a little off the main market road with not much noise in the vicinity to disturb you, you will be able to work in a peaceful environment and can take work calls without hesitation.

So, what does the 129 signify? 🤔

I'm sure you also wondered what the number stands for. Well, my curiosity made me ask the very nice lady at the counter who told me that the café is a benefactor of the Tibetan Street Vendors Welfare Society. They donate their profit to this community fund. The number signifies the 129 beneficiaries (street vendors' families) who benefit from this lovely initiative.

Food

🌿 Serves only vegetarian food

Must Try:

- Tofu steak with sticky rice 🍛

- Iced Matcha Milk Tea 🍵

- Bibimbap 🍲 (Korean mixed rice with veggies, kimchi & sauce)

- Kimbap 🍣 (Korean version of sushi although the ingredients are vastly different)

I was told they also serve really good coffee (they brew it there itself) though I didn't try it out this time.

Interiors

If the images above haven't convinced you to visit this place yet, here is some more information about what you'll find inside the café.

The long turquoise community table in the middle of the place is used for potluck lunches that happen on occasional Sundays. In addition to that, there is separate seating in the balcony and within another room.