Pokhara is a fantastic place to learn Nepali cooking, especially because of its laid-back lakeside atmosphere and friendly locals eager to share their culinary traditions. Unlike larger cities, Pokhara’s cooking classes often feel like visiting a friend’s home, making the experience both authentic and intimate. I personally love the Nepalese Momos or Dal Bhat Cooking Class at Cook with Delight, which combines a perfect balance of fun, learning, and hands-on action — plus, you leave with a recipe you can recreate anywhere. The small-group setting (max 5 guests) and a friendly guide make it especially memorable.
If you’re eager to learn about Nepalese cuisine while connecting with local people, Pokhara’s cooking classes are hard to beat. Whether you’re interested in making momos, Dal Bhat, or exploring Thakali dishes, these experiences open a window into everyday life and food in Nepal. Read on to find the best fit for your schedule, budget, and culinary curiosity.
1. Nepalese Momos or Dal Bhat Cooking Class (Cook with Delight)
At number 1, the Nepalese Momos or Dal Bhat Cooking Class offers a straightforward, authentic introduction to two of Nepal’s most iconic dishes. For just $25 per person, you’ll spend about two hours learning how to cook momos (Nepali dumplings) or dal bhat — the traditional lentil rice meal. The class is held in a cozy setting, conveniently meeting at Hotel Diplomat, with a maximum of five participants, ideal for personalized attention.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on from-scratch cooking. Your guide will demonstrate each step, showing all the ingredients used in authentic preparations—then you get to try your hand at shaping the momos or cooking the dal bhat. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly hosts and the delicious results, often leaving with a full belly and new skills. It’s perfect for families or solo travelers who want a taste of home-cooked Nepali food. The recipe is yours to keep, so you can impress friends back home.
Bottom line: An excellent, budget-friendly choice for travelers wanting an authentic, hands-on experience with an intimate group.
2. Nepalese Kitchen in Pokhara: Momos or Dal Bhat Cooking Class
Next, the Nepalese Kitchen in Pokhara provides a more immersive experience. For $38, you get a full three-hour session where you’ll learn how to make flavorful momos and Dal Bhat, guided by experienced instructors in a warm, homely environment. This tour includes a pickup from Lakeside, a guided visit, and a chance to take part in the entire process from preparing ingredients to cooking.
Guests rave about Sarita’s organization and her patience, often noting how they made multiple batches of momos at home afterward. The class’s strength lies in its personal touch — you’re encouraged to ask questions, share stories, and learn about the cultural significance of each dish. After cooking, you’ll get to enjoy your creations alongside a cultural tour.
Bottom line: This is a fantastic choice for those wanting a more comprehensive cultural and culinary experience, suitable for food lovers wanting detailed guidance.
3. Pokhara: 3 Hour Authentic Nepali Thakali Dish Cooking Class
Number 3 on our list is the Thakali Dish Cooking Class, offering a unique peek into Thakali cuisine—a lesser-known but truly flavorful regional style. For about $45, you’ll spend three hours learning to prepare traditional dishes from this ethnic group, famous for hearty, wholesome flavors. The class involves hands-on participation, from chopping vegetables to stirring aromatic spices, with guidance from Shanta and her family.
What sets this apart is the focus on culinary heritage—you’re not just making a meal, but understanding the techniques and ingredients that define Thakali cooking. Guests mention how they enjoyed tasting the dishes as they cooked, and the experience of sharing a family-style meal afterward. It’s ideal for travelers with a taste for authentic regional cuisines and those eager to learn techniques they can replicate.
Bottom line: Perfect for culinary explorers wanting to go beyond basic Nepali dishes and learn regional flavors.
4. MoMo or Dal Bhat Cooking Class at Aama Kitchen in Pokhara
In the Aama Kitchen, you’ll learn to make authentic momos and dal bhat with guidance directly from the family matriarch, “Aama,” who has years of organic experience. For around $40, this three-hour class offers a homey environment where you can connect with Nepali culture on a personal level. You’ll see how ingredients are selected and prepared in a typical Nepali household, making this a richly authentic experience.
Guests highlight the chance to learn about spices and vegetables, often discussing the cultural significance of the festival time when the class takes place. Many leave feeling like they’ve gained not only cooking skills but also insights into family life and traditions. This experience is especially good for those wanting a personalized, family-oriented approach.
Bottom line: If you want to enjoy a homestyle, organic experience and learn from local family cooks, this is a great choice.
5. Nepalese Kitchen in Pokhara Momos or Dal Bhat Cooking Class
Number 5 offers a more intimate, homely experience in a traditional Nepali household. For $50, you’ll spend about three hours learning to cook momos and Dal Bhat with a focus on hospitality. This class emphasizes community and cultural exchange, giving you a chance to see how everyday Nepali families prepare their meals. Reviewers love the thoroughness of the instruction and the warm environment.
The appeal here is the personal connection, with many mentioning how they enjoyed sharing stories with local hosts. It’s a perfect fit for travelers who want to see Nepalese life behind closed doors and take home authentic recipes.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers interested in culture and authentic family-style cooking.
$50.00 per person
6. Pokhara: 1 Day Momo Making Cooking Class
For those looking for a more intensive, immersive experience, the 1 Day Momo Making Class offers about five and a half hours of hands-on activity. Priced at $75, this class dives deep into traditional momo techniques, from spice blending to intricate folding. You’ll learn to create multiple varieties of momos, experimenting with fillings and presentation, and engage in conversations about Nepali culture.
Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the opportunity to prepare and eat a full meal of momos at the end. It’s ideal for foodies who want to master a specific skill and enjoy a full-day culinary adventure.
Bottom line: Best for dedicated momo lovers wanting a full-day, intensive workshop with plenty of hands-on practice.
$75.00 per person
7. Pokhara: 3 Hour MoMo Cooking Class
The 3-hour Momo Cooking Class is a fun, quick way to learn momo-making basics. For just $34, you’ll be guided through the process of preparing the dough, creating fillings, and mastering the art of folding. It includes a local cafe visit for a guided tour and tasting, making it a relaxed, social experience.
Have limited time? This class offers a compact but comprehensive introduction to Nepal’s favorite snack. Reviewers mention how much fun they had and how delicious their momos turned out, inspiring them to try making them back home.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers short on time but eager to learn and taste authentic momos.
8. 3 Hours Nepali Thali or Momo Cooking Class in Pokhara
This Nepali Thali or Momo Class combines making moments of Nepali cuisine with a focus on Thali — a complete meal served on a platter. For around $60, you will learn how to prepare moments of different dishes, and then enjoy your creations with a soft drink. It’s suitable for those 10 and older, and includes hotel pickup and drop-off.
Guests find this class comprehensive and enjoy the interactive experience of rolling dough and seasoning. After cooking, you sit down to savor your efforts, making it a satisfying, full experience.
Bottom line: Good for families or travelers wanting a full meal experience with practical skills.
$59.65 per person
9. Pokhara: Nepali Cooking Class and Momo Making Workshop
Finally, the Nepali Cooking Class and Momo Workshop offers an all-in-one cultural and culinary experience. For $42, over three hours, you’ll learn to cook a variety of Nepali dishes with a local host and taste your own creations. The class emphasizes cultural traditions and ends with enjoying a homemade meal.
Reviewers mention the warm, personal atmosphere, and how the instructor, a local Aama, shares insights into Nepali customs, making it more than just cooking. It’s perfect for those wanting depth and cultural context.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a well-rounded, authentic Nepali cooking experience with cultural insights.
$42 per person
How to Choose the Right Cooking Class in Pokhara
When selecting your cooking experience, consider your budget, time availability, and culinary interests. If you’re after a quick, affordable intro, the Momo or Dal Bhat Class at Cook with Delight is perfect. For a deeper dive into regional flavors, the Thakali Dish Class offers an authentic regional focus.
If family-style, personalized experiences appeal, Aama Kitchen or Nepalese Kitchen provide warm, homely environments. Those wanting to master momo-making can opt for the full-day class or the 3-hour quick class, depending on your schedule.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your spot. Consider your fitness level and interest in cultural stories — some classes include visits or cultural components.
Final Thoughts
Pokhara’s cooking classes offer a delightful way to connect with Nepali culture, whether you’re making momo, dal bhat, or regional Thakali dishes. For hands-on learning in a small-group setting, the Cook with Delight tops the list. If you prefer a more authentic, family-oriented atmosphere, Aama Kitchen and Nepalese Kitchen are excellent options.
For those eager to learn regional flavors or want a full-day experience, the Thakali class or the momo-making workshop will satisfy your appetite for culinary adventure. Whatever your choice, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these flavorful, fun experiences.