Ganga Impression (AKA Ganga) is a fantastic Indian restaurant located in the heart of town. It is owned and run by chefs from India so you can rest assured that the food is of top authentic quality. It is frequented by both Chinese and foreign tourists, as well as expats. I know what you’re thinking; it’s 38 degrees outside and 85%+ humidity, so who wants to eat spicy Indian food in that heat? Actually, spicy food is one of the best things to help you cool down on a hot day since it warms your temperature internally. This, in turn, makes you sweat, and therefore you cool down with the breeze. There must be a reason why Indian food (native to one of the hottest countries in the world) is spicy, right? And if that isn’t enough to persuade you, Ganga do offer a fully air-conditioned room or space outside with fans to help you cool down in the heat.
The first thing you can’t fail to notice about the restaurant is the incredibly friendly staff and their unparalleled service. They will be ready to meet you at the entrance and make sure you feel welcome from the minute you step through the door, and make sure that your water is always topped up throughout your time there. They are very accommodating and strive to make sure you have the best experience there, so if you have anything less than a perfect meal be sure to let them know and they will do their best to help any way they can.
It is because of this that if you’re a particularly fussy eater, can’t do spicy food, or have certain dietary requirements or allergies, Ganga is certainly the place for you. The staff speak perfect English as well as Chinese so you can place confidence in the fact that your requirements will be adhered to, especially if you have any serious allergies that are making your life in China difficult.
Prices are typical of local international restaurants. You can expect to eat a very hearty meal of rice, curry and naan (and be able to take some of it away for tomorrow) for around 50 RMB (approx. 7.5 USD).
All that aside, the other things that Ganga has to offer are the small foosball table, free fast WiFi, and great conversation with the locals and other tourists you may find in this cosy hideout. If you’re travelling alone, it is also a great way to meet people since not a day goes by when the local expat community doesn’t go to Ganga at least one point in the day – and usually sticks around for a good few hours in the afternoon. If expats who have been living in Yangshuo for years and tried and tested all of the local places call this their home, it must have something special about it, and you won’t be disappointed.
Leave a Reply