The American golfer Jimmy Walker once said, “I have a lot of stories to tell because I’ve been down a lot of roads people haven't been." I’ve read a lot of stuff but I doubt if there are any other words that come closer than this to describe my life. There is something about the roads which is very hard to put into words. Sure, train journeys have a character and flights offer the comfort and convenience but it is only once you’re on the road that you really live your journey.
From the not so well-maintained highways in certain parts of the country to the picturesque ones, I’ve had several adventures with roads in the country but there’s a romance of sorts that just refuses to die down.
Being on the road has always been about exploring food, cultures and practices on-the-go and the one route that has been my eternal favourite is the NH 22 which connects Delhi to Shimla. The legendary dhabas throughout the route ensure that there is never a dull moment on this lovely drive. So if you’re planning to drive down to Shimla, here’s a small list of my personal favourites that I guarantee, will leave you asking for more!
We all know the importance of Murthal on the food map of North India—The hoard of dhabas makes Murthal a customary stopover en-route to Shimla and Amrik Sukhdev has almost become a legendary institution to gorge on some authentic North Indian cuisine. But if you’re in no mood to tackle all the madness and rush at Sukhdev, Mannat Dhaba is what you’re looking for. Dishing out authentic lip-smacking delicacies, the Mannat Dhaba is the perfect stopover, regardless of if you’re looking for a hearty Punjabi meal or just a plate of pakoras with your midnight cup of tea.
Cost: ₹600 for two
Cuisine: North Indian, Mughlai
Standout dishes: Aloo parantha, rajma masala, bhindi fry, rabri jalebi
Timings and location: Open 24 hours; 49th Mile Stone, N.H 1, Murthal, Haryana
Contact: 09254303230
The Haveli group of restaurants has grown several fold in last few years with outlets in every major city on the route but the charm of the original Haveli at Karnal remains unmatched. The multi-cuisine eatery is a favourite amongst family travellers and the authentic village-like setting, shopping options, outdoor playing area and of course, some delectable food makes Haveli a complete experience. The gorgeous ambience, generous servings and warm hospitality are bound to transport you to the villages of Punjab.
Cost: ₹1000 for two
Cuisine: North Indian, Mughlai
Standout dishes: Dal makhani, shahi paneer, chhole bhature, pav bhaji
Timings and location: Open 24 hours; 135.5 km Stone, GT Road, Near Karna Lake, Karnal
Contact: 09896630080
The Delhi-Shimla highway apart from being a haven to some legendary dhabas, also has a decent number of fine dining options and the in-house restaurant The Flavours at the Best Western, Zirakpur which sits as the jewel on the crown. The team at The Flavours takes extra effort by customising meals according to the taste of their customers and the quaint and cosy ambience only ends up preparing you for the long drive ahead. Oh, and did I mention how all of this is super easy on the pocket and complete value for money?
Cost: ₹1200 for two
Cuisine: North Indian, Chinese, Continental
Standout dishes: Malai kofta, dahi ke kebab, chicken biryani, butter chicken
Timings and location: 7 AM to 11 PM; Hotel Best Western Maryland, Chandigarh-Ambala Highway, Ambala Road, Zirakpur
Contact: 01762-661000
Well, this one is not exactly on the NH 22 but still finds a place in my all time favourites just because every time I visit the Pal Dhaba, i end up wanting to go back right away. Established in 1968, the Pal Dhaba is a short 10 minute detour from the highway which serves typical North Indian food with no frills attached because when you’re at the Pal Dhaba, it’s only about the food! Miss the shahi paneer and butter chicken at your own risk! Also, if you’re visiting in winter, don’t walk out without trying the makki ki roti and sarson ka saag, it will change your life!
Cost: ₹700 for two
Cuisine: North Indian
Standout dishes: Butter chicken, chana masala, dal makhani, keema kaleji, makki ki roti and sarson ka saag (seasonal)
Timings and location: 11 AM to 11 PM; SCO 151 & 152, Sector 28 D, Sector 28, Chandigarh
Contact: 0172-2650709
What Sukhdev is to Delhi, Giani Da Dhaba is to Himachal. One of the oldest dhabas on the route, Giani Da Dhaba has been the absolute favourite of celebrities and travellers alike. Home to the most iconic rajma chawal on the entire highway, Giani Da Dhaba serves lip-smacking vegetarian food in the lap of the hills. You might have to wait for a few minutes as the place is always brimming with people but, both, the food and the view make it all worth it in the end. And as they say, all’s well that ends well.
Cost: Rs 500 for two
Cuisine: North Indian
Standout dishes: Rajma chawal, aloo gobhi, kadhi pakora, mirchi ka parantha
Timings and location: 9 AM to 9:15 PM; Giani Da Dhaba, Dharampur, Himachal Pradesh
Contact: 09816022066
Did we miss out on anything? Share your experiences with the community and help it grow.
Frequent searches leading to this page:-
weekend getaways from delhi, best dhaba on delhi shimla highway, delhi to shimla road trip, places to visit from delhi to shimla, getaways from delhi
