India, a land known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich culinary heritage, offers a surprising haven for plant-based enthusiasts. While traditional Indian cuisine boasts delicious vegetarian options, the vegan movement is gaining "strong" momentum in several major cities.
From bustling metropolises to serene coastal towns, here are the Indian cities that will tantalize your taste buds and nourish your soul with delicious, cruelty-free fare.
The "Silicon Valley of India" is also a frontier person in the vegan movement. Bangalore boasts a booming plant-based scene with numerous cafes, restaurants, and patisseries dedicated to vegan delights. Sample innovation takes on traditional dishes at places or savours international vegan cuisine. Don't miss the vibrant farmers' markets overflowing with fresh, local produce – perfect for whipping up your culinary creations.
The "City of Dreams" offers a kaleidoscope of culinary experiences, with options for every palate, including vegans. Explore the trendy cafes in Bandra or Khar, where you'll find innovative plant-based takes on street food classics like vada pav and pav bhaji. For a fine dining experience, head to the local cafe for globally-inspired vegan dishes. Mumbai also offers vegan versions of traditional Maharashtrian delicacies like misal pav at "Sharan's Pure Veg."
A vibrant student city- Pune is quickly becoming a hub for vegan restaurants and cafes. From casual cafes like "Open Up" serving delicious plant-based burgers to upscale restaurants like "Vegan Planet" with gourmet vegan dishes, Pune caters to all taste buds.
Gujarati cuisine is naturally vegan-friendly- with legumes, lentils, and fresh vegetables in their recipe. Explore the bustling streets of Ahmedabad and discover various vegetarian restaurants offering vegan options upon request. For a more modern twist, visit the classic restaurant for the innovative vegan takes on Gujarati classics.
Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is a vegetarian paradise and a burgeoning vegan hotspot. Fuel your day with a hearty South Indian breakfast of idli and sambar at a traditional vegetarian eatery, or indulge in a modern vegan twist on masala dosa. Chennai also boasts several vegan bakeries like "Veganation", where you can satisfy your sweet tooth with guilt-free treats.
This idyllic coastal paradise offers a delightful mix of Portuguese and Indian influences, reflected in its cuisine. While known for its seafood, Goa also boasts a growing vegan scene. Head to cafes like "Little Italy" or "Bean Me Up" for fresh juices, smoothies, and delicious vegan meals. Explore local markets and restaurants for Goan classics like xacuti (a spicy coconut curry) and bhaji (fried vegetable fritters)- many can be easily made vegan.
Rishikesh is a renowned spiritual centre and a haven for health-conscious travellers. The city promotes a vegetarian lifestyle, and many restaurants cater to vegans with ease. Indulge in wholesome and healthy vegan meals at cafes. With its focus on yoga and wellness, Rishikesh is the perfect place to nourish your body and soul with plant-based goodness.
With its diverse culinary traditions and growing vegan scene, India offers a delightful adventure for plant-based travellers. Many restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions, and readily available fresh produce makes it easy to enjoy delicious and healthy meals. When exploring local markets, learn a few basic Hindi phrases to ensure you're getting authentically vegan options.
So, pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready to embark on a plant-based journey through some of India's most vibrant cities. With planning and an open mind, you'll discover a world of delicious and cruelty-free culinary delights waiting for you to discover.
