Juju Dhau, or the "King of Yogurt," got its name because of its unbeatable taste and cultural importance. The story goes back to the Malla era in Bhaktapur, where yogurt was a staple offering to the gods and a highlight of royal feasts. According to a tale, kings of the Malla period of the valley once organized a yogurt competition. Yogurt makers from Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Lalitpur participated in the competition. Among all the yogurt made, one from Bhaktapur stood out for its creamy texture and rich flavor, unlike anything else. The Malla kings were so impressed that they named it the “king” of all yogurts. Over time, this name stuck, and Juju Dhau became a tradition in Bhaktapur.
For the people of Bhaktapur, Juju Dhau is more than a dessert. It’s a part of life’s big and small celebrations. It may seem like some ordinary yogurt that you can taste anywhere but once you taste it, you’ll understand why it holds such a special place in the hearts of everyone who calls this city home. Weddings aren’t complete without it, and religious rituals almost always involve offering it to the gods. Even during festivals, when the streets buzz with music and color, Juju Dhau is present there to welcome everyone to have the treat they all deserve.
In Bhaktapur, Juju Dhau doesn’t need a big introduction or fancy branding. It sits quietly in its clay pot, waiting for you to discover it. And when you do, you’re not just tasting yogurt, you’re tasting a piece of history, a bit of love, and a whole lot of what makes this little city so extraordinary. There’s something almost meditative about eating it. You scoop up a spoonful, and it melts in your mouth, soft, sweet, and comforting in a way that makes you slow down and just enjoy the moment while savoring its taste. Imagine milk so fresh you’d swear it just came from the farm.
Once you eat Juju Dhau, it is nearly impossible to want to return to eating normal yogurt.
Photo Credit-pickledelisquare.com,nepal8thwonder.com,kathmandupost.com.
