Samdupling Restaurant

Our restaurant is tucked away in Alchi, which is a long drive from Leh in the Ladakh region. We are right behind the Pota La Guest House, part of the Samdupling Hotel. It’s a very quiet part of the world, especially when the winter sets in. The air is thin and the mountains are all around us. We run the place ourselves, serving meals to travelers and locals who pass through. It’s not a big menu because getting supplies up here isn't always easy. We use what we can find in the markets when the roads are open. The building is made of stone and wood, which helps keep the cold out a little bit. Inside, it’s a simple setup with a few tables and some warm tea always ready. We don't have many employees; it’s mostly just family helping out. During the tourist season, it gets a bit more lively. We meet people from different countries who come to see the old monastery nearby. It’s interesting to hear their stories while they eat. The rest of the year, it’s very peaceful. We don't have any fancy decorations or a modern kitchen. We just cook on a basic stove and try to make the food taste like home. Life moves slowly here in Alchi, and our restaurant reflects that. We just do our best with what we have in this high altitude.