An Indian Street Food Tour is the best way to experience India’s culture, flavor, and diversity. From Delhi’s chaats to Hyderabad’s biryani, every city offers iconic dishes that define India’s food heritage. This 7-day guide takes you through the best flavors of India’s streets.
Why Indian Street Food is the Heart of India’s Culture
Street food in India is more than just eating — it’s an experience of culture, tradition, and diversity. Every region has its own specialties, flavors, and cooking styles. Unlike fine dining, street food is about authenticity and affordability — the same snacks that kings once enjoyed are now served at roadside stalls for just ₹20–50.
This is why global travelers call India the world’s street food capital.
Day 1: Exploring Delhi’s Iconic Street Food Scene
Delhi is the starting point of most Indian food tours — and for good reason. Its street food blends Mughlai, Punjabi, and North Indian flavors.
Must-try street foods in Delhi:
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Chole Bhature – Spicy chickpeas with fluffy fried bread.
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Gol Gappa (Pani Puri) – Crisp puris filled with tangy flavored water.
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Parathas of Chandni Chowk – Stuffed breads with potato, paneer, or mixed veggies.
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Kebabs and Rolls – Seekh kebabs, chicken tikka rolls at Karim’s and Jama Masjid lanes.
Delhi’s street food is best experienced in Old Delhi (Chandni Chowk, Jama Masjid, Connaught Place).
Day 2: The Street Food Charm of Mumbai
Mumbai is fast, busy, and vibrant — and so is its street food. Known as the city of vada pav, Mumbai offers spicy, filling, and quick eats.
Must-try street foods in Mumbai:
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Vada Pav – The Indian version of a burger, spicy potato filling inside bread.
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Pav Bhaji – Butter-loaded mashed vegetables with bread rolls.
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Bombay Sandwich – Multi-layered veg sandwich with chutney and masala.
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Bhel Puri & Sev Puri – Crispy, tangy, and spicy chaat items.
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Bombil Fry – A coastal delicacy for seafood lovers.
Don’t miss Juhu Beach and Mohammad Ali Road during Ramadan for food heaven.
Day 3: Kolkata – The Sweet and Savory Capital
Kolkata’s food is influenced by Bengali tradition and colonial history. Here, you get the perfect balance of sweets and street delicacies.
Must-try street foods in Kolkata:
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Kathi Rolls – Paratha stuffed with kebabs and chutney.
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Puchkas – Kolkata’s version of pani puri, extra spicy and tangy.
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Momos – Steamed dumplings influenced by Tibet and Nepal.
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Mishti Doi & Rosogolla – Bengali sweets famous worldwide.
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Jhal Muri – Spiced puffed rice with mustard oil.
Visit Park Street and College Street for authentic Kolkata street food vibes.
Day 4: Lucknow – The Land of Nawabi Kebabs
Lucknow’s street food is rich, royal, and heavily influenced by Mughlai cooking.
Must-try street foods in Lucknow:
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Galouti Kebabs – Melt-in-mouth kebabs made with aromatic spices.
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Tunday Kebabs – A 100-year-old kebab recipe known globally.
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Lucknawi Biryani – Fragrant rice cooked with subtle spices.
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Sheermal & Kulcha – Traditional breads with gravies.
Lucknow is heaven for non-veg lovers — kebabs here are unmatched.
Day 5: Chennai – South India’s Flavors on the Street
South Indian street food is light, flavorful, and healthy. Chennai offers a blend of Tamil cuisine and modern snacks.
Must-try street foods in Chennai:
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Idli & Dosa – Served with coconut chutney and sambar.
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Filter Coffee – Strong, aromatic South Indian coffee.
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Sundal – Spiced chickpeas often eaten as a beach snack.
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Murukku & Banana Chips – Crispy snacks loved by locals.
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Kothu Parotta – Shredded parotta tossed with eggs, chicken, and masala.
Best explored on Marina Beach and T. Nagar streets.
Day 6: Hyderabad – The Biryani Capital of India
Hyderabad is known worldwide for its biryani, but its street food goes beyond that.
Must-try street foods in Hyderabad:
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Hyderabadi Biryani – The ultimate dish of India.
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Haleem – Slow-cooked meat dish, especially during Ramadan.
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Irani Chai with Osmania Biscuits – A Hyderabad specialty.
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Mirchi Bajji – Stuffed and fried green chilies.
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Keema Samosa – Spiced meat samosas loved by locals.
Don’t miss the Charminar area for authentic Hyderabadi street food.
Day 7: Ahmedabad – A Gujarati Food Paradise
Gujarati street food is sweet, tangy, and unique. Ahmedabad is a paradise for vegetarians.
Must-try street foods in Ahmedabad:
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Dhokla & Khandvi – Soft, steamed snacks with a sweet-sour flavor.
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Fafda & Jalebi – A popular breakfast combo.
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Sev Usal – Spicy curry topped with sev and eaten with pav.
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Khaman – A fluffy version of dhokla.
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Kulfi Falooda – Sweet, cold dessert for summer nights.
Best enjoyed at Manek Chowk, which turns into a food street at night.
Health and Hygiene Tips While Eating Street Food in India
Street food is delicious, but hygiene varies across vendors. To stay safe:
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Always eat freshly prepared hot food.
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Avoid raw salads and cut fruits on the street.
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Drink only bottled or filtered water.
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Follow the crowds — popular stalls usually have higher turnover and fresher food.
Why Indian Street Food is Loved Worldwide
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Affordability – You can enjoy a full meal for less than ₹100.
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Diversity – From spicy chaats to creamy sweets, variety is unmatched.
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Cultural experience – Eating on Indian streets is like living India’s culture.
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Vegan & vegetarian-friendly – India has the widest choice of plant-based street food.
Conclusion: A 7-Day Food Journey That Defines India
Indian street food is not just about taste — it’s about the people, culture, and heritage behind every dish. Whether it’s the spicy puchkas of Kolkata, buttery pav bhaji of Mumbai, or rich kebabs of Lucknow, every bite tells a story.
If you want to truly experience India, you must eat like an Indian — on the streets.
FAQs on Indian Street Food
Q1. Is Indian street food safe to eat?
Yes, if you choose busy stalls with high turnover, stick to freshly cooked hot food, and avoid raw items.
Q2. What is the most popular street food in India?
Pani puri (gol gappa/puchka) is the most popular, loved across every region with different flavors.
Q3. Which city has the best street food in India?
Delhi for chaats, Mumbai for vada pav, Kolkata for puchkas, and Lucknow for kebabs.
Q4. Is Indian street food vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, India offers the widest variety of vegetarian street food in the world — from pav bhaji to dosa.
Q5. How much does street food cost in India?
Most snacks cost between ₹20–100, making it budget-friendly even for international travelers.
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