IS FOOD TASTIER IN THE HILLS?

CELEBRITY FOOD EXPERT AND TV PERSONALITY, ROCKY SINGH, DECODES WHY FOOD TASTES DIFFERENT AT HIGHER ALTITUDES

- Rocky Singh

PANGOT IS 14 KM FROM Nainital, and I was there for the first time almost 30 years ago. What a place it was then. Lush green forest, a profusion of Himalayan birds and some great food at an old friend's place, which was nearing completion. The agenda was to go birding, which has long been my passion, so the day started pre-dawn for me.

After enjoying a hot cup of coffee while it was still dark outside, I set off with my camera and my over-enthusiastic labrador retriever. The morning was perfect, and as the first light broke, I found myself sitting on a steep slope, watching a few kalij pheasants feed peacefully. I managed to capture some decent shots. Six hours later, I fully understood why Pangot is considered a birdwatcher's paradise. Despite the cold winter wind that seemed to cut straight through my bones, I thoroughly enjoyed my morning walk. It wasn't long before I was hurrying back to find shelter and, of course, a well-deserved meal.

After a long walk in the windy woods, entering the small round room that served as both the kitchen and dining area, warmed by a crackling fire, felt like a little piece of heaven. The mutton curry and paneer makhani were absolutely divine, though both needed nearly twice the amount of salt I typically use.