Best Food and Culinary Tours in India. India, a land of vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and ancient traditions, is perhaps most profoundly experienced through its diverse and tantalizing cuisine. From the aromatic spices of the South to the rich creamy curries of the North, Indian food is a sensory journey that captivates and delights. If you’re a food lover seeking an immersive experience, a food and culinary tour is the perfect way to unravel the culinary secrets of this incredible country.
Looking ahead to 2025-2026, we’ve curated a list of the 9 best food and culinary tours in India, designed to take you beyond the typical tourist fare and introduce you to the authentic flavors, traditions, and techniques that define Indian gastronomy. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and delve deep into the heart of Indian cuisine!
Best Food and Culinary Tours in India
1. Royal Rajasthan Culinary Journey: Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur
Focus: Regal Cuisine, Spice Markets, and Royal Kitchen Visits
Rajasthan, the land of kings and queens, offers a culinary experience as opulent as its palaces. This tour immerses you in the royal traditions, showcasing dishes historically prepared for the Maharajas.
- Highlights:
- Jaipur: Learn to make Dal Baati Churma and other Rajasthani staples. Explore the vibrant spice markets of Jaipur and participate in a hands-on cooking class focusing on royal Rajasthani dishes. Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani Thali showcasing the breadth of the region’s culinary offerings.
- Udaipur: Dine overlooking the picturesque Lake Pichola and indulge in Mewari cuisine. Visit local markets and learn about the ingredients used in traditional Mewari dishes like Laal Maas. A boat ride on Lake Pichola often comes with culinary experiences, perhaps a traditional high tea or sampling of local snacks.
- Jodhpur: Experience the flavors of Marwari cuisine, known for its unique use of lentils and spices. Learn to make Mirchi Bada and other local street food delights. Visit a family-run kitchen and learn the secrets of traditional Marwari cooking.
- Why it’s great: This tour combines history, culture, and cuisine, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Rajputs. You’ll learn about the historical influences on Rajasthani cuisine and gain hands-on experience in preparing authentic dishes.
2. South Indian Spice Trail: Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka
Focus: Coastal Cuisine, Spice Plantations, and Authentic Home-Style Cooking
Embark on a journey through the South, a land of lush landscapes, aromatic spices, and diverse culinary traditions. This tour takes you from the backwaters of Kerala to the temples of Tamil Nadu and the vibrant cities of Karnataka.
- Highlights:
- Kerala: Cruise the backwaters and enjoy a traditional Kerala Sadya, a vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf. Visit a spice plantation and learn about the cultivation and uses of cardamom, cloves, pepper, and other spices. Participate in a cooking class focused on Kerala seafood dishes like Meen Moilee (fish stew).
- Tamil Nadu: Explore the temple city of Madurai and sample traditional Tamil Brahmin cuisine. Learn to make Idli, Dosa, and Sambar from scratch. Visit local markets and learn about the different types of rice and lentils used in Tamil cuisine.
- Karnataka: Discover the diverse culinary offerings of Bangalore, from traditional South Indian dishes to modern interpretations. Learn to make Bisi Bele Bath (rice and lentil dish) and Mysore Masala Dosa. Explore the local coffee plantations and learn about the art of coffee making.
- Why it’s great: This tour offers a diverse culinary experience, showcasing the unique flavors and ingredients of each South Indian state. You’ll learn about the influence of spices and geography on South Indian cuisine and gain hands-on experience in preparing authentic dishes.
3. Delhi’s Delicious Delights: Street Food, Mughlai Cuisine, and Culinary History
Focus: Street Food, Mughlai Cuisine, and Colonial Influences
Delhi, the capital of India, is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. This tour takes you on a culinary adventure through the bustling streets of Old Delhi, the elegant restaurants of New Delhi, and the historic kitchens of the Mughal era.
- Highlights:
- Old Delhi: Explore the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk and sample a variety of street food delights, including Parathe Wali Gali (stuffed bread), Kebabs, and Jalebi (sweet). Learn about the history of Mughlai cuisine and its influence on Delhi’s culinary landscape.
- New Delhi: Indulge in a fine dining experience showcasing modern Indian cuisine. Visit local markets and learn about the ingredients used in Delhi’s diverse dishes. Participate in a cooking class focused on Mughlai dishes like Biryani and Korma.
- Culinary History: Visit historical sites like Humayun’s Tomb and learn about the culinary traditions of the Mughal emperors. Explore the influence of colonial powers on Delhi’s cuisine.
- Why it’s great: This tour provides a comprehensive culinary experience of Delhi, showcasing its diverse flavors, history, and cultural influences. You’ll experience the energy of Old Delhi’s street food scene and the elegance of New Delhi’s fine dining establishments.
4. Goan Gourmet Getaway: Seafood, Portuguese Influence, and Feni Tasting
Focus: Seafood, Portuguese Influence, and Local Beverages
Goa, a coastal paradise, offers a unique culinary experience influenced by its Portuguese past. This tour takes you on a gastronomic journey through the vibrant markets, charming restaurants, and traditional kitchens of Goa.
- Highlights:
- Seafood Feast: Indulge in fresh seafood dishes like Goan Fish Curry, Prawn Balchao, and Caldeirada (fish stew). Visit local fish markets and learn about the different types of fish and seafood available in Goa.
- Portuguese Influence: Explore the Portuguese heritage of Goan cuisine through dishes like Vindaloo, Xacuti, and Bebinca (layered cake). Learn about the history of Portuguese colonization and its impact on Goan culinary traditions.
- Feni Tasting: Sample the local Goan liquor, Feni, made from cashew apples or coconut. Visit a cashew plantation and learn about the process of making Feni.
- Why it’s great: This tour offers a unique culinary experience, showcasing the fusion of Indian and Portuguese flavors that defines Goan cuisine. You’ll enjoy fresh seafood, explore the Portuguese heritage, and learn about the local beverages.
5. Himalayan Harvest: Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand – Regional Ingredients and Mountain Cuisine
Focus: Regional Ingredients, Mountain Cuisine, and Sustainable Food Practices
Escape to the Himalayas and discover the unique culinary traditions of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. This tour focuses on the use of local ingredients, sustainable food practices, and the hearty cuisine of the mountain regions.
- Highlights:
- Himachal Pradesh: Learn about the use of local ingredients like apples, apricots, and mushrooms in Himachali cuisine. Participate in a cooking class focused on Himachali dishes like Dham (a traditional festive meal) and Siddu (steamed bread). Visit local orchards and learn about the cultivation of apples and other fruits.
- Uttarakhand: Explore the use of lentils and grains in Uttarakhandi cuisine. Learn to make Kumaoni Raita (yogurt dip) and Bhatt ki Churkani (black bean curry). Visit local farms and learn about sustainable agriculture practices.
- Mountain Cuisine: Experience the hearty and warming cuisine of the Himalayas, designed to withstand the cold weather. Learn about the use of spices and herbs in Himalayan dishes.
- Why it’s great: This tour offers a unique culinary experience, showcasing the flavors and ingredients of the Himalayan region. You’ll learn about sustainable food practices and the hearty cuisine of the mountains.
6. Kolkata’s Culinary Canvas: Bengali Sweets, Fish Delicacies, and Anglo-Indian Cuisine
Focus: Bengali Sweets, Fish Delicacies, and Anglo-Indian Cuisine
Kolkata, the City of Joy, is a food lover’s paradise. This tour takes you on a culinary journey through the streets of Kolkata, exploring its famous sweets, delectable fish dishes, and unique Anglo-Indian cuisine.
- Highlights:
- Bengali Sweets: Indulge in a variety of Bengali sweets like Rasgulla, Sandesh, and Mishti Doi (sweet yogurt). Visit traditional sweet shops and learn about the art of making Bengali sweets.
- Fish Delicacies: Explore the diverse range of fish dishes in Bengali cuisine, from Macher Jhol (fish curry) to Ilish Bhapa (steamed Hilsa fish). Visit local fish markets and learn about the different types of fish available in Kolkata.
- Anglo-Indian Cuisine: Discover the unique Anglo-Indian cuisine, a fusion of British and Indian flavors, through dishes like Railway Mutton Curry and Fish Fry. Learn about the history of Anglo-Indian cuisine and its influence on Kolkata’s culinary landscape.
- Why it’s great: This tour offers a comprehensive culinary experience of Kolkata, showcasing its diverse flavors, history, and cultural influences. You’ll experience the sweetness of Bengali sweets, the richness of Bengali fish dishes, and the unique flavors of Anglo-Indian cuisine.
7. Varanasi’s Spiritual Sustenance: Sattvic Food, Street Food, and Traditional Cooking
Focus: Sattvic Food, Street Food, and Traditional Cooking Methods.
Varanasi, the ancient city on the Ganges, offers a culinary experience that reflects its spiritual significance. This tour focuses on Sattvic food (vegetarian cuisine), traditional street food, and cooking methods aligned with Ayurvedic principles.
- Highlights:
- Sattvic Food: Explore the principles of Sattvic cooking, emphasizing fresh, seasonal, and easily digestible ingredients. Learn how Sattvic food promotes physical and mental well-being. Participate in cooking classes focusing on Sattvic dishes.
- Street Food Exploration: Safely sample Varanasi’s famous street food, focusing on vegetarian options like Kachori Sabzi and Lassi. Learn about the hygiene standards and local customs associated with street food.
- Traditional Cooking Methods: Observe and participate in traditional cooking methods using clay ovens (tandoors) and wood-fired stoves. Learn about the cultural significance of these methods.
- Why it’s great: This tour offers a unique perspective on Indian cuisine, connecting food with spirituality and well-being. You’ll learn about the principles of Sattvic cooking and explore the culinary traditions of this sacred city.
8. Hyderabad’s Hyderabadi Delights: Biryani, Haleem, and Nizami Cuisine
Focus: Biryani, Haleem, and Nizami Cuisine (Royal Cuisine)
Hyderabad, the City of Pearls, is renowned for its rich and flavorful Hyderabadi cuisine, heavily influenced by the Nizami dynasty. This tour delves into the secrets of Hyderabadi Biryani, the creamy Haleem, and other royal delicacies.
- Highlights:
- Biryani Masterclass: Learn the authentic techniques for making Hyderabadi Biryani, including layering, dum cooking (slow cooking in a sealed pot), and spice blending.
- Haleem Experience: Discover the origins and preparation of Haleem, a slow-cooked stew of meat, lentils, and wheat, particularly popular during Ramadan. Visit local establishments famous for their Haleem.
- Nizami Cuisine Exploration: Indulge in other Nizami dishes such as Qubani ka Meetha (apricot dessert), Mirchi ka Salan (chili curry), and Double ka Meetha (bread pudding). Learn about the historical influences on this regal cuisine.
- Why it’s great: This tour offers an in-depth exploration of one of India’s most celebrated cuisines, focusing on its historical roots and culinary techniques. You’ll master the art of Biryani making and savor the flavors of the Nizami era.
9. Northeast India’s Undiscovered Flavors: Exploring the Culinary Diversity of the Seven Sister States
Focus: Regional Ingredients, Fermented Foods, and Unique Culinary Practices.
Venture off the beaten path and discover the unique culinary traditions of Northeast India, encompassing the “Seven Sister States” (Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura). This tour explores the region’s diverse ingredients, fermented foods, and distinct culinary practices.
- Highlights:
- Ingredient Foraging: Learn about and potentially participate in foraging for local ingredients, including exotic herbs, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots.
- Fermentation Techniques: Discover the importance of fermentation in Northeast Indian cuisine and learn about the preparation of various fermented foods, such as rice beer, bamboo shoot pickles, and dried fish.
- Regional Culinary Specialties: Explore the distinct cuisines of each state, including:
- Assam: Khar (alkaline preparation), Masor Tenga (sour fish curry)
- Manipur: Eromba (fermented fish stew), Singju (vegetable salad)
- Nagaland: Naga Pork with Bamboo Shoots, Anishi (fermented yam leaves)
- Why it’s great: This tour offers an adventurous culinary experience, introducing you to the lesser-known but incredibly diverse flavors of Northeast India. You’ll learn about sustainable food practices and the unique culinary heritage of this region.
Planning Your Culinary Adventure:
When planning your food and culinary tour in India, consider the following:
- Season: The best time to visit India for a food tour is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant.
- Dietary Restrictions: In advance, communicate any dietary restrictions or allergies to your tour operator.
- Spice Level: Indian food can be quite spicy. Be sure to communicate your spice tolerance to the chefs and cooks.
- Accommodation: Choose accommodation that is conveniently located near local markets and restaurants.
- Transportation: India has a vast and diverse transportation system. To get around, consider using a combination of trains, buses, and taxis.
- Flexibility: Be open to trying new things and embracing the unexpected.
India’s culinary landscape is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. These 9 food and culinary tours offer a gateway to understanding the country’s rich culture, history, and traditions through the universal language of food. So, pack your bags, prepare your palate, and embark on a gastronomic adventure of a lifetime! Remember to book in advance, especially for tours scheduled during peak season (October-March). Enjoy your culinary journey through Incredible India!
