Some travel to take a break, some to experience a new culture, and then there are those who travel for good food. The last type usually looks for places that offer a huge variety to choose from. Everybody knows about the rich culinary history and fare of Banaras, Jaipur, Lucknow and Hyderabad, so we’ve compiled some lesser-known places so that you can discover more on your next trip.
1. Bikaner, Rajasthan
If ever you visit Bikaner, make sure to try kesar kulfi stored in matkis. These are available in almost every sweet shop, and outside major tourist attractions and forts. These kulfis are made with thick milk combined with the fragrance of the saffron. Some of the other food items you must try are Gatte Ki Sabzi, Pakodi, Khasta, Fini and Ghevar.
2. Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
Never miss on the lip-smacking variety of Bhopali food. Explore Chatori Gali that has everything from Bade ka Kabab, Mutton Seekh Kabab to Kabab Pao and Paya Soup. It is a paradise for non-veg lovers and make sure you have a plate of Bhopal special Biryani before leaving.
3. Imphal, Manipur
The beauty of the city of Imphal is enough to make you spend at least one holiday. Chamthong, Eromba, Morok Metpa to Paaknam, Imphal has loads of dishes to offer. But Shingju, a spicy salad made with ngari, cabbage, chilli and herbs, is a must try when in Manipur. The raw vegetable component of the salad is combined with chili sauses and fermented fish. Also, you will find some additions to the dish at every new place.
4. Puri, Odisha
Puri is known for the Jagannath Temple and food lovers must visit at least once to try the Maha Prasadam which consists of 56 dishes. Also, non-vegetarians shouldn’t miss Chungudi Aloo Tarakari (Prawn Potato Curry). Besides all these, try typical Oriya flavour with dishes like Dalma and Pakhal Bhat. Chenna Poda, Poda Pitha, Enduri Pitha and Chittau Pitha are some of the other must-try dishes.
5. Ambala, Haryana
The moment you will reach Ambala station, you will see loads of vendors selling Chhole Kulche. Well, they say Ambala is known for that. But also what you should never miss when in Ambala is Mutton Curry, Tikki, Sandwiches, and Kalmi Kebabs. While you are in the city, Puran Singh Dhaba is a must-visit.
6. Pune, Maharashtra
There is more to the city than just Symbiosis! Start with spicy Dabeli, then go for Bun Maska, Beef Kheema, Misal Pav, Gur Rasgullas, Vada Pav, Patti Samosa and end your food trip with Shresbury Biscuits.
7. Kottayam, Kerala
Kerala-style chilli beef fry is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Kottayam. Apart from thinly-sliced strips of meat, fish curry, fried mussels, and chilli buff are must-have.
8. Digha, West Bengal
Digha is small resort-town near Kolkata and has loads of seafood to offer. Crabmeat, pomfrets, tiger prawns, among other sea fishes, you have to taste everything made in Bengal-style gravy.
9. Nagpur, Maharashtra
If Nagpur was never on your bucket list, we have a reason to add it now. One of the most important reasons is Savji Shakanu Chaknu, or goat and chicken curry made in Savji spices. It is described as India’s spiciest cuisine.
10. Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir
One of the most famous delicacies of Jammu is Kalari kulcha. It is a type of fried snack made of kalari cheese. Cheese is fried using its own fat and is seasoned with salt. It tastes best with normal bread or Lavasa bread.
