India is one of the best destinations in the world for vegan travelers. With its long history of vegetarian cuisine rooted in culture, religion, and Ayurveda, finding plant-based meals is easier here than in many other countries. From modern vegan cafés in big cities to traditional thalis in small towns, India offers a diverse and delicious vegan food experience.

1. Why India is a Vegan-Friendly Destination

  • Vegetarian heritage: A large part of India follows vegetarian diets due to Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism.
  • Dairy awareness: With the global rise of veganism, more Indian restaurants are offering dairy-free alternatives.
  • Local ingredients: Lentils, beans, rice, vegetables, coconut milk, and spices form the backbone of Indian cuisine, making it naturally adaptable for vegans.

2. Best Cities in India for Vegan Dining

Delhi

The capital offers a blend of traditional and modern vegan dining. Popular spots include:

  • Greenr Café (Shahpur Jat) – Whole food plant-based meals, smoothies, and desserts.
  • FabCafe – Organic Indian dishes with vegan adaptations.
  • Rose Café – Known for vegan desserts and continental dishes.

Mumbai

India’s cosmopolitan hub has trendy vegan restaurants and international options.

  • Earth Café @ Waterfield – 100% vegan with pizzas, salads, and desserts.
  • Sequel Bistro & Juice Bar – Organic and vegan-friendly, with superfood bowls.
  • Yogisattva – A vegan café and cooking school offering raw food and plant-based meals.

Bengaluru

Known as India’s tech capital, it also has a growing vegan culture.

  • Carrots Restaurant – One of India’s first vegan restaurants, offering everything from curries to cakes.
  • The Green Path – Forgotten Food – Farm-to-table vegan-friendly meals.
  • Smooor – Popular for vegan chocolates and desserts.

Goa

The beach paradise is a hotspot for international vegan travelers.

  • Bean Me Up – Legendary vegan café with smoothies, pizzas, and raw desserts.
  • Blue Planet Café – Vegan-friendly, with organic, locally sourced dishes.
  • Zest Café – Offers plant-based global cuisine with tropical vibes.

Other Cities

  • Pune – Malaka Spice (vegan options), Sante Spa Cuisine.
  • Chennai – Wild Garden Café, Pumpkin Tales.
  • Jaipur – Anokhi Café, Tapri Central (vegan-friendly teas and snacks).

3. Traditional Indian Vegan Dishes Tourists Must Try

Even outside dedicated vegan restaurants, many traditional Indian dishes are naturally vegan:

  • South Indian: Dosa, Idli, Sambar, Coconut chutneys, Vegetable curries.
  • North Indian: Chana Masala, Aloo Gobi, Baingan Bharta, Rajma.
  • Street Food: Pani Puri, Bhel Puri, Aloo Tikki (without yogurt).
  • Snacks: Samosa, Pakora, Vegan-friendly sweets like coconut barfi.

4. Tips for Vegan Travelers in India

  • Ask about ghee and dairy: Many vegetarian dishes use butter, cream, paneer, or ghee—request oil or coconut milk substitutes.
  • Learn key phrases: Saying “No milk, no butter, no ghee” helps in local restaurants.
  • Use apps: HappyCow and Zomato list vegan and vegan-friendly places across India.
  • Stick to South India: Coconut milk-based dishes are widely available, making vegan dining effortless.

5. Conclusion

India is a paradise for vegan tourists, offering both modern plant-based restaurants and traditional vegan-friendly meals. Whether you’re enjoying a smoothie bowl in Goa, a vegan thali in Delhi, or coconut curries in Kerala, India’s diverse cuisine ensures that plant-based travelers never run out of choices.