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Experience Momo making with Ladakhi Women

Not Rated
Duration

4 hours

Cancellation

No Cancellation

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English, Hindi, Ladakhi

About this Experience

Step into a traditional Ladakhi kitchen at Dhung Homestay in Rumbak, and learn how to prepare Ladakhi-style momos—flavourful dumplings made with high-altitude ingredients, locally grown vegetables, and ancient culinary wisdom. This hands-on experience is hosted by local women from a Self-Help Group (SHG), who warmly open their homes and hearts to visitors, sharing their knowledge and stories around the fire.

You’ll knead dough with glacier-fed water, prepare fillings using seasonal produce or preserved greens, and master the unique folds and shapes of Ladakhi momos. As the aroma rises from the steaming pots, you’ll gather around the bukhari (wood stove) to enjoy your handmade meal—alongside stories, laughter, and mountain hospitality.

Location & Community

📍 Village: Rumbak
👩‍🍳 Hosted by: Dhung Homestay & Local SHG Women

Rumbak is a serene, high-altitude village nestled inside the Hemis National Park, accessible by a short trek. This village is home to snow leopards, red foxes, and a resilient community of Ladakhi families who continue to live off the land with grace and grit.

Cultural Relevance

In Ladakhi households, momos are more than just food—they represent warmth, togetherness, and seasonal cycles. Locally, they are called “Mok Mok”, and are often made during winter gatherings or special occasions. The fillings vary based on what’s available—dried vegetables from summer harvests, wild herbs, or occasionally minced meat. Making Mok Mok is typically a collective activity, with women from neighbouring homes coming together to cook, gossip, and sing. This experience keeps that spirit alive.

Highlights

  • Learn to make traditional Ladakhi momos from scratch
  • Try fillings unique to Ladakh—like tsa-lok (dried turnip greens) or local cheese
  • Understand traditional folding techniques and their symbolism
  • Enjoy a meal with your hosts in a traditional kitchen
  • Support local SHG women and community-based tourism
  • Optional: Share stories and folk songs over tea

11:00 AM – Arrival at Dhung Homestay

Your experience begins with a warm welcome at Dhung Homestay in Rumbak village. You'll be greeted by local Self-Help Group (SHG) women with a steaming cup of traditional butter tea or herbal infusions, setting the tone for a relaxed, immersive afternoon in their kitchen.

11:30 AM – Introduction to Momo-Making and Ladakhi Culinary Traditions

Gather around the hearth as your hosts introduce you to the significance of momos—or mok mok, as they're locally known—in Ladakhi households. You'll learn about seasonal ingredients, preservation techniques, and the community rituals that surround food preparation in the mountains.

12:00 PM – Hands-on Preparation: Dough, Fillings, and Folding

Roll up your sleeves for a hands-on cooking session. Using locally sourced ingredients, you’ll knead the dough with glacier-fed water and prepare unique fillings like tsa-lok (dried turnip greens) or homemade cheese. Then, you'll learn the traditional folding methods that make Ladakhi momos so distinct.

1:00 PM – Steaming and Enjoying the Meal

Once the momos are ready, they’re steamed to perfection. You’ll gather around with your hosts to enjoy the meal, served with homemade chutneys and a bowl of piping hot soup—a wholesome, hearty experience that nourishes both body and spirit.

2:00 PM – Cultural Exchange and Optional Village Walk

After lunch, continue your time with the hosts through storytelling, music, or informal conversation about life in the mountains. If time and interest permit, take a short walk through the village to learn more about local architecture, farming, and wildlife conservation.

3:00 PM – Departure or Optional Extension

Wrap up your experience and say goodbye to your hosts—or opt to extend your stay in Rumbak with an overnight at the homestay, a trek into Hemis National Park, or a guided wildlife spotting tour.

  • Momo-making session at Dhung Homestay
  • Ingredients and utensils
  • Meal with chutneys and hot soup
  • Tea and local cultural interaction
  • Optional: English-language interpretation
  • Travel to/from Rumbak (can be arranged on request)
  • Personal expenses, tips, or packaged souvenirs
  • Overnight stay (available separately)

Hemis Monastery

English
Hindi
Ladakhi

Experience's Location

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from €900,00

Owner

Padma dolma

Member Since 2025