---
title: What is Churpi or Chhurpi?
description: Churpi (also known as Chhurpi or Durkha) is a traditional cheese from the Himalayan regions of Darjeeling, Tibet, and Northeast India (Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh).
image: https://chandni.co.in/hubfs/churpi.webp
---

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# What is Churpi or Chhurpi?

![Churpi](https://7528315.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hub/7528315/hubfs/raw_assets/public/mV0_d-cms-elevate-theme_hubspot/elevate/images/avatar-placeholder.jpg?width=48&height=48&name=avatar-placeholder.jpg)

 Churpi

January 25, 2026

[Churpi](https://churpi.in/churpi) (or *chhurpi*) is a traditional Himalayan cheese made from yak or cow milk, primarily consumed in Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, and Northeast India (Sikkim, Darjeeling, and Arunachal Pradesh). Often cited as the **world's hardest cheese**, it is a vital source of protein in high-altitude regions where other food sources may be scarce. 

## Types of Churpi

![Soft Churpi](https://chandni.co.in/hs-fs/hubfs/Soft%20Churpi.webp?width=324&height=324&name=Soft%20Churpi.webp)![Hrad Churpi](https://chandni.co.in/hs-fs/hubfs/Hrad%20Churpi.png?width=1080&height=1080&name=Hrad%20Churpi.png)

There are two distinct varieties based on their preparation and use:

- **[Hard Churpi](https://churpi.in/product/hard-churpi-400g/):** Known as *chugo* or *durkha*, this variety is dried and smoked until it becomes rock-hard. It is typically chewed like a long-lasting lozenge or "natural chewing gum," slowly softening with saliva over several hours.
- **[*Soft Churpi*](https://churpi.in/product/soft-churpi-the-himalayan-churpi-200g/):** A fresh, crumbly variety similar to ricotta or paneer. It is a staple ingredient in Himalayan cuisine, used in soups, curries (*churpi ko achaar*), and as a filling for momos. 

### Key Characteristics

- **Ingredients:** Traditionally made from the milk of the *chauri* (a yak-cow crossbreed). Modern versions may use pure cow milk. It is often lactose-free because the production process removes the whey and sugar.
- **Nutritional Profile:** Highly nutritious, it is rich in protein, Omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and antioxidants.
- **Storage:** Due to its low moisture content, hard churpi can be stored for months or even years without refrigeration. 

## Common Uses

- **Human Snack:** Eaten by locals and trekkers to provide energy and keep the body warm in extreme cold.
- **Cooking:** Soft churpi is fermented to create a tangy flavor for traditional dishes like *Ema Datshi* in Bhutan.

**Pet Treats:** Because it is 100% natural and long-lasting, it has become globally popular as a **healthy dog chew** that promotes dental hygiene.

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