Walking past the cobbled streets in India, you'll witness diverse savory aromas floating from the kitchen doors of the neighborhood. The saporous smell can instantly stimulate your taste buds and knock you off your senses.

Lauded worldwide for its plethora of cuisines, India is home to luscious flavors and ambrosial spice-based preparations. Various concoctions of tastes, spreading across twenty-nine states and seven union territories, can be explored through India tourism.

A foodie's paradise, the land offers numerous dishes that can tantalize the taste buds. From authentic dishes to watered-down versions, you can catch hold of any flavor that suits your mood and needs.

Well, let's dive deeper into the most popular dishes in India that you must not miss on your trip here:-

South India- The Land of Spices

The spluttering of mustard seeds, sweet aroma of desiccated coconut, and tamarind chutney all tell a tale of the land of spices. South India boasts of the heavy use of local spices that adds to the flavor of the piping hot curries and other dishes. Coconut is another essential item that gives a brief trailer of the richness of Southern dishes.

With your India holiday packages, you can dip in the zesty and sensational taste of the South Indian dishes mentioned below.

1. Masala Dosa

The king of all dosas- Masala dosa is a feather-light item that is a must-try. Lightly-cooked potatoes with onions, spices, and curry leaves, are adept at leaving a spell-binding effect instantly.

Originating from Udipi, Karnataka, Masala dosa is comfort food savored across the country. Traditionally, the dish is served with hot and succulent sambhar that gives it a spicy edge.

2. Idli

A savory light cake, Idli is a breakfast version of dosa. Made with fermented black lentils and rice, the humble dish is dangerously easy to devour.

Budding from the region of Tamil Nadu, the cuisine is equally loved and relished in Karnataka and all of the Indian territory. Your India tour package remains incomplete without tasting these mini pancakes.

3. Chicken Chettinad

Coming straight from the land of Chettinad in Tamil Nadu, Chicken Chettinad will floor you and your family. The dish is laced with lusciously authentic peppery paste. It is a sumptuous mélange of tomatoes, onions, coconut paste, and other spices.

The classic Indian cuisine gets prepared with freshly ground coconut and a myriad of spices. One of the most delish chicken dishes, Chicken Chettinad, is an appetizing treat that shouldn't be missed.

4. Hyderabadi Dum Biryani

Hands down, unquestionably, Hyderabadi Dum Biryani is a magical escapade for every non-veg lover!

Cooked with piquant spices, chicken, curd, and butter, the cuisine is sealed with dough and slow-cooked dum style. They are usually served with raita.

While enjoying the India sightseeing tours, ensure you grab a bowl of the seasoned dish to quench your biryani needs.

North India- A Vibrant Gateway to Taste

Dipped in desi ghee, doused in fresh cream, and glazed with tempting spices, Northern dishes are a living testimony of magic.

Aromatic gravies, veggie stir-fries, and sinful desserts all make up a colorful platter that is hard to resist.

Let's have a sneak peek at various popular North Indian dishes that need to be tried no matter what:-

Disclaimer: The dishes will bedazzle you!

1. Matar Paneer

One of the most frequently ordered veg dishes in North India is Matar Paneer. Cubes of farmer's cheese bathed in rich curry will make you experience paradise on earth.

While making the most out of your India city tours order the delectable Matar Paneer and make lifetime memories to cherish.

2. Dal Makhani

Buttery and creamy, Dal Makhani is a Peshawari dish that made its way into India through Punjab. Prepared by stewing small black lentils, the cuisine is in a league of its own.

Usually reserved for big occasions, Dal Makhani will give you a palatable ride to the culinary world of North Indian states. The cuisine is prepared by simmering it overnight in a tandoor. A classic item, it can make you go gaga with each bite.

3. Rogan Josh

A signature dish of the northernmost part of the country, Rogan Josh is a staple of the Kashmir valley. Your tours in India are empty without tasting the aromatic curried meat.

One of the main items of the Kashmiri wazwan (multicourse meal), Rogan josh, is traditionally made with lamb, mutton, or goat. The cuisine is rich with clarified butter, paprika, spices, and an onion and ginger-garlic base flavor.

4. Butter Chicken

Packed with exotic, creamy sauce, Butter Chicken is a drool-worthy dish, extremely popular across the country. It is a perfect dinner party cuisine none can overlook, and none can forget.

Born in the kitchens of Moti Mahal, butter chicken is famous amongst Indians and foreigners alike. Have it with butter naan or rice to make the most out of it.

West India- Unraveling the Masked Taste

Cuisines of Western India will indeed add to the memories of your India sightseeing tours. What is common across all the western states is the diversity in their culture, climate, and food.

From the western coastline of Goa to the Aravali ranges in Rajasthan, each region boasts of eclectic spices and diverse cuisines.

So, let's take you on a gastronomically rich journey of some of the best dishes of Western India:-

1. Vada Pav

A way of life in Mumbai and a much-relished cuisine in western India, Vada pav is a must-try dish. It is a soft and spongy bun stuffed with spicy vada that can ratchet up your stay in India.

The luscious item is usually served with a generous amount of green chutneys smeared on the buns. A true blue heaven, vada pav, will fill up your belly and make you fall in love with it all over again.

2. Dhokla

While enjoying your India city tours, we urge you to try the succulent Guajarati dish- Dhokla. Springy and squishy, it serves as an all-purpose Indian cuisine.

Prepared with a fermented batter of lentils and rice, these yellow fluffy bites have earned their place on the global palate. Sweet and spicy, Dhoklas are infused with flavored water that gives another punch to the zesty dish.

3. Goan Fish Curry

A little pocket of Indian Zion, Goa offers a wide variety of delectable comestible items, the top being the Fish curry. The dish is prepared in exotic masaledar gravy that makes fish all the more juicy and succulent.

The tangy curry is packed with coastal flavors that make it unique. The hot-sour taste that is a staple of this cuisine comes from Portuguese influence prevalent in the region.

4. Pomfret Fry

Goa again hits the spotlight when it comes to non-vegetarian dishes. Along with enjoying your India city tours, do not forget to try the coconut-based Pomfret fry.

Cooked with zingy lime juices and dashed in red chili powder, the cuisine is irresistible to hog. The dish makes use of fuss-free ingredients that are readily available.

Dip it in coriander or mint chutney, and let the magic begin!

East India- A Hidden Lane to Exotic Flavors

East Indian dishes feature fewer spices, setting these cuisines apart from other regional food. The people here are fond of sugary treats, and the fairy Godmother did not hesitate to give them sweet tooth either.

Well, let's see what they have in store for your belly bugs:-

1. Litti Chokha

Litti Chokha best reflects the earthiness of Bihar. Made with gram flour and loads of spices, they are usually baked over coal or wood. The Chokha for the dish is prepared with mashed brinjals, tomatoes, salt, and lemon juice.

One of the most loved and relished items, it will add up to your India tourism experience. A delectable cuisine, it should be included in your lunch or dinner menu.

2. Mishti Dohi

A sumptuous Bengali dish, Mishti Dohi is usually made from cow, buffalo, or goat milk. The process involves cooking sweetened milk until it gets thick. Once done, it is allowed to ferment.

You will find Mishti Dohi being made in traditional earthenware jars. You might also get hold of other varieties made with fruit or condensed milk if you're lucky.

3. Chicken Momos

Coming all the way from Tibet, Chicken Momos are a much-loved dish across the Indian region. Also known as Chicken Dimsums, the bite-size dumplings are a true delight.

Usually, steamed momos are popular amongst the people. However, you may also find baked or deep-fried momos doing the rounds on your restaurant menu.

Make sure you relish these dumplings while enjoying the India tour package.

4. Thukpa

A comfort food, Thukpa is a scrumptious dish that needs no introduction. Prepared with flat noodles along with meat and veggies, it is a great dish to savor during the winter chills.

Originating from Bhutan and Tibet, the nutritious cuisine is immensely filling and healthy. We bet once eaten, you can never have enough of these fantastic Thukpa.

Central India

Once you're in the heart of India, you'll find a change in the kind of dishes being made and savored here. The states of Central India have both sweet and salty dishes to proffer.

Most of the traditional and tribal foods are rice-based and make use of various leaves while cooking.

When you hit this place through your India city tours, make sure you enjoy the following delicacies:-

1. Palak Puri

A significant variation of puri popular in Madhya Pradesh, Palak puri is a unique cuisine. Made with blanched spinach puree mixed with wheat flour, it tops the list of must-try dishes in Central India. In some places, all-purpose flour is also used.

Have these puris with curries like chana masala or aloo matar to experience the ultimate taste.

2. Gulgula

The "Rice bowl of India," Chhattisgarh, has a variety of cuisines available, the most famous being Gulgula or gulgule. The deep-fried sweet is made from whole wheat flour, sugar, or jaggery.

The dish forms an intrinsic part of certain festivities, such as Karva Chauth and Basauda. These dumplings are made in a way that the outer part remains crisp, with a soft inside.

3. Seekh Kebab

India sightseeing tours remain incomplete without tasting the sumptuous Seekh kebabs of Bhopal. It is an exquisite dish made with spiced, minced, or ground meat.

Known initially as Shish Kebab, they were introduced by the Turks. Have a bite of these cylindrical cuisines to get the feel of Bhopali culture.

4. Biryani Pilaf

Forming a part of the Nawabi cuisine, Biryani Pilaf is one of the most prominent dishes of Central India. It is prepared with various spices, meat, vegetables, cream, and ghee.

Biryani Pilaf is known as the South Asian version of Mughal Biryani.

Vegan Restaurants

For vegans planning to visit India, don't be disappointed coz we got you covered!

Have a look at these Vegan restaurants that are oh so popular in India:-

1. Bean Me Up Cafe, Goa

Known for scrumptious starters and the main course, Bean Me Up Cafe is one of Goa's best places to enjoy vegan dishes.

Website: https://beanmeup.in/

Opening Hours: 9 am- 11 pm

Cost per Person: Rs.600 (approx)

2. The Real Green Cafe, Pune

The Real Green Cafe is Pune's first-ever vegan restaurant in Koregaon Park.

Opening Hours: 9 am-10 pm

Cost per Person: Rs. 770(approx)

3. Rose Cafe, Delhi

Rose cafe is the best vegan restaurant in the capital city, Delhi. The dishes are exotic, and the ambience is enticing inside.

Website: https://www.rosecafemiami.com/

Opening Hours: 12-9 pm

Cost per Person: Rs. 1100 (approx)

4. Carrots Restaurant, Bangalore

For relishing the health-conscious vegan plates, head to Carrots in Bangalore. The restaurant provides multiple delectable vegan items that are a must-try.

Website: https://www.carrots-india.com/

Opening Hours: 11 am- 6 pm

Cost per Person: Rs. 350 (approx)

5. Sequel Bistro & Juice Bar, Mumbai

Known for its vegan-protein bowl, Sequel Bistro & Juice Bar is a one-stop point for all health-freaks. Explore this spot and experience the best vegan cuisines.

Opening Hours: 8 am- 10:30 pm

Cost per Person: Rs. 750 (approx)

India is a massive land with multiple cuisines to try and explore. What we have mentioned is just a fraction of the different dishes that the country offers. Head to the various regions and delve into their culinary world to get a clearer picture.

You can apply for a flavored India holiday package with us and explore the culinary traditions of the world's oldest civilization!