For many Indian travellers, the biggest worry about going abroad is food. The good news is that vegetarian food is easier to find than ever, though it varies a lot by destination.
Easiest destinations
- Singapore and Malaysia: Little India and Brickfields have South Indian restaurants, and hawker centres offer vegetarian stalls.
- Dubai and Abu Dhabi: a huge Indian community means vegetarian Indian food everywhere.
- Sri Lanka: rice and curry meals include many vegetable dishes.
- Mauritius: a strong Indian heritage and familiar flavours.
Manageable with some planning
- Thailand: Indian restaurants are common in Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket. Thai food often uses fish sauce and shrimp paste; ask for "jay" (vegan) food or visit vegetarian restaurants.
- Bali: many cafés offer vegetarian and vegan dishes.
- Europe: Italy is easy, with pizza, pasta and risotto. Most cities have Indian restaurants. Switzerland and France are fine with some planning.
Requires more planning
- Japan and Korea: many dishes use fish-based stock even when they look vegetarian. Look for Buddhist temple cuisine (shojin ryori), dedicated vegetarian restaurants or Indian restaurants in big cities.
- Vietnam: look for "chay" (vegetarian) restaurants.
Jain and eggless diets
Jain food (no onion, garlic or root vegetables) is available in Dubai, Singapore and London, and in some Indian restaurants elsewhere. Eggless diets need extra care with bakery items and desserts. Tell us early and we brief hotels and tour operators.
Useful habits
- Learn a few phrases or carry a translated card explaining your diet.
- Use map apps to find vegetarian restaurants near your hotel.
- Pack some ready-to-eat Indian food and snacks for long excursions.
- Choose hotels with breakfast included; buffets usually have fruit, bread, cereals and eggs.
On tours
Our quotes note which meals are included. We request vegetarian, Jain or eggless meals and confirm what each supplier can provide. See Food and culinary holidays.
When to go
When to go
When to go
When to go