Top 6 Vegetarian States in India – A Food & Travel Guide for Veggie Lovers

India is a paradise for vegetarians, offering a wide variety of flavourful plant-based cuisine. Vegetarianism by states in India is deeply connected to tradition, religion, and culture. While vegetarianism is popular across the country, some states have a higher percentage of vegetarians than others.

These vegetarian states in India not only serve delicious food but also offer beautiful landscapes, rich heritage, and cultural experiences.

In this blog, we will explore the top six Indian States with the highest vegetarian population. We will look at their famous vegetarian cuisine, must-visit places, and the best Club Mahindra resorts to stay in. Whether you are a dedicated vegetarian or simply enjoy plant-based meals, these destinations will give you an amazing travel and food experience!

Top 6 Vegetarian States in India

1. Rajasthan (74.9% Vegetarians)

Rajasthan is the ultimate destination for vegetarian food lovers. With the highest percentage of vegetarians in India, this desert state offers some of the most iconic plant-based dishes in the country. Due to its arid climate, Rajasthani cuisine is known for its unique preparation methods that require minimal water and make use of locally available grains and spices.

Some must-try vegetarian dishes include

Dal Baati Churma

A quintessential Rajasthani dish, Dal Baati Churma consists of three components:

• Baati – Hard, baked wheat balls with a crispy exterior and soft interior, often soaked in ghee.
• Dal – A flavourful lentil curry made from a mix of lentils, tempered with aromatic spices.
• Churma – Sweetened, crushed wheat bread mixed with sugar or jaggery and ghee.

This dish is a staple for vegetarians in India, offering a perfect balance of savoury and sweet flavours.

Gatte Ki Sabzi

A popular Rajasthani curry featuring soft gram flour (besan) dumplings, known as gatte, cooked in a tangy, spiced yoghurt-based gravy. This rich and creamy dish pairs well with hot rotis or steamed rice, making it a beloved comfort food for many vegetarians in India.

Ker Sangri

A unique Rajasthani speciality made with ker (a wild berry) and sangri (desert beans). These sun-dried ingredients are slow-cooked with tangy spices, creating a distinctive and flavorful dish. High in nutrients and packed with traditional flavours, Ker Sangri is a must-try for anyone looking to experience authentic Indian vegetarian cuisine.

Pyaaz Kachori

A famous street food delight, Pyaaz Kachori is a deep-fried, flaky pastry stuffed with a spicy onion filling. Served with tamarind and mint chutneys, this crispy snack is a favourite among vegetarians in India who love bold and tangy flavours.

Rajasthani Thali

For a wholesome and diverse experience, try a traditional Rajasthani Thali. This elaborate platter includes a variety of vegetarian dishes such as Dal Baati Churma, Gatte Ki Sabzi, Ker Sangri, rotis, rice, pickles, and sweet treats like Ghewar or Malpua. It's the perfect way to savour multiple flavours in one meal.

Where to Stay: Club Mahindra Resorts & Restaurants

Club Mahindra offers some of the best stays in Rajasthan, a state known for its highest percentage of vegetarians in India. Enjoy authentic vegetarian cuisine at Club Mahindra Udaipur (Barbeque Bay, Aravali Restaurant), Club Mahindra Jaisalmer (Jeeman Restaurant), Club Mahindra Kumbhalgarh (Barbeque Bay, Jeeman Restaurant), and Club Mahindra Jaipur (Spice Restaurant). Experience the best of vegetarian states in India with Club Mahindra! 

2. Haryana (69.2% Vegetarians)

With 69.2% of its population being vegetarian, Haryana is one of the top vegetarian states in India. The food here is simple yet flavourful, reflecting the state's agrarian lifestyle. The people of Haryana prefer home-cooked meals made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, dairy products, and whole grains.

Some must-try vegetarian dishes from Haryana

Bajra Khichdi 

Bajra Khichdi is a nutritious dish made with pearl millet (bajra) and lentils, slow-cooked together to create a comforting porridge-like consistency. This traditional dish is typically served with a generous dollop of ghee and accompanied by jaggery or buttermilk (chaas), enhancing its taste and health benefits. High in fibre and protein, Bajra Khichdi is a staple winter dish that keeps the body warm and energised.

Besan Masala Roti 

This gram flour (besan) flatbread is a flavorful alternative to regular wheat rotis. Made by kneading besan with spices such as ajwain (carom seeds), cumin, coriander, and green chilies, Besan Masala Roti is typically enjoyed with white butter, fresh homemade curd, or tangy pickles. This dish is a favourite breakfast option among Haryanvi households, offering both taste and nutrition in every bite.

Kachri Ki Sabzi 

Kachri Ki Sabzi is a spicy and tangy curry made from kachri, a wild cucumber native to Haryana. This lesser-known vegetable is rich in antioxidants and imparts a distinct, slightly sour flavour to the dish. Cooked with basic spices, yoghurt, and mustard seeds, Kachri Ki Sabzi is a true reflection of the region’s traditional cooking methods. It pairs well with bajra roti or steamed rice, making it a must-try for those looking to experience authentic rural flavours.

Mixed Dal

Lentils are a staple in Indian cuisine, and Haryana’s Mixed Dal is a comforting and nutritious dish made by cooking a blend of moong dal, urad dal, chana dal, and masoor dal together. The dals are slow-cooked with aromatic spices like cumin, garlic, and asafoetida, creating a rich and flavorful dish. Best served with steamed rice or freshly made rotis, Mixed Dal is a simple yet deeply satisfying meal enjoyed across Haryana.

Mithe Chawal 

A popular festive dish, Mithe Chawal (sweet rice) is made by cooking basmati rice with saffron, sugar, cardamom, and nuts, giving it a rich aroma and irresistible sweetness. Often prepared during special occasions and festivals, this delightful dish is garnished with almonds and raisins for added texture and flavour. Mithe Chawal is not just a dessert but a celebration of Haryana’s traditional culinary heritage.

If you love dairy-based foods, Haryana is the place to be! The state is known for its fresh lassi (sweet yoghurt drink), buttermilk, and homemade white butter served with almost every meal.

3. Punjab (66.7% Vegetarians)

With 66.7% of its population being vegetarian, Punjab has one of the highest percentages of vegetarianism by state in India. Punjabi is a paradise for food lovers because the food here is rich in dairy, spices, and ghee. Whether you eat at a roadside dhaba or at home, Punjab’s vegetarian cuisine is full of flavour and variety.

Here are some must-try vegetarian dishes from Punjab

Sarson Da Saag & Makki Di Roti 

A winter staple in Punjab, Sarson Da Saag is a nutrient-rich dish made by slow-cooking mustard greens (sarson) along with spinach and bathua (a leafy green), blended with garlic, ginger, and green chillies for added depth. The saag is then tempered with ghee, giving it a silky texture and a robust flavour.

It is traditionally paired with Makki Di Roti, a flatbread made from cornmeal (makki ka atta), which adds a rustic and earthy taste. The meal is incomplete without a generous dollop of homemade white butter (makkhan) and a side of jaggery or pickles, making it a comforting and wholesome delight during cold winter months.

Chole Bhature 

One of the most beloved North Indian dishes, Chole Bhature, is a classic combination of spicy chickpea curry (chole) and deep-fried, fluffy bread (bhature). The chickpeas are cooked in a rich tomato-based gravy infused with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, garam masala, and amchur (dry mango powder), giving it a tangy and flavorful kick.

The bhature are made from a fermented dough, which makes them light, crispy, and irresistibly soft on the inside. Served with pickled onions, green chillies, and a glass of sweet lassi, Chole Bhature is a must-try dish for anyone who loves bold and indulgent flavours.

Rajma Chawal 

Rajma Chawal is a simple yet soul-satisfying meal that holds a special place in Punjabi households. Kidney beans (rajma) are slow-cooked in a thick, spiced tomato gravy infused with garlic, ginger, and whole spices, creating a hearty and rich dish. The key to a perfect Rajma lies in slow cooking, which allows the flavours to meld beautifully, making the beans incredibly tender.

Paired with steamed basmati rice (chawal) and a side of onions, green chillies, and homemade yoghurt, Rajma Chawal is a comforting and wholesome meal enjoyed by people of all ages.

Amritsari Kulcha 

Hailing from Amritsar, Amritsari Kulcha is a crispy, oven-baked flatbread stuffed with a flavourful mixture of mashed potatoes, onions, green chillies, coriander, and spices. The dough is kneaded with milk and yoghurt to give it a soft and fluffy texture inside, while the exterior remains golden and crisp.

This delectable bread is traditionally served with spicy chole (chickpea curry), mint chutney, and pickled onions, making it a favourite breakfast or lunch option in Punjab. A generous brushing of butter on top adds an extra layer of indulgence!

Paneer Tikka 

A must-try for paneer lovers, Paneer Tikka is a smoky and flavourful appetizer made by marinating paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a blend of yoghurt, spices, lemon juice, and mustard oil. The marinated paneer cubes are then skewered with bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes and grilled to perfection in a tandoor (clay oven) or on a stovetop.

The result is a charred, slightly crispy exterior with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth inside. Served with mint chutney and onion rings, Paneer Tikka is a crowd-pleaser at every Punjabi gathering and a must-try for those who love smoky, grilled flavours.

Punjab’s love for dairy products is evident in its lassi (sweet or salted yoghurt drink), malai (fresh cream), and ghee-laden parathas, making it a true delight for vegetarian food enthusiasts.

Where to Stay: Fortune Ranjit Vihar (In-House Restaurant)

A great option for a comfortable stay is Club Mahindra Associate Resort Fortune Ranjit Vihar in Amritsar. This resort in Punjab offers an in-house restaurant serving authentic Punjabi cuisine, including all the vegetarian delights that make Punjab famous.

4. Gujarat (61.9% Vegetarians)

With 61.9% of its population being vegetarian, Gujarat is one of the Indian states with the highest vegetarian population. The state is known for its diverse yet balanced cuisine, where sweet, spicy, and tangy flavours come together in every dish. Gujarati meals are typically light, nutritious, and prepared with minimal oil, making them a delight for food lovers. Jain food is also widely available in Gujarat, with many restaurants offering delicious no-onion, no-garlic dishes that cater to Jain dietary preferences.

Here are some must-try vegetarian dishes from Gujarat:

Gujarati Thali 

A Gujarati Thali is a grand feast that showcases the true essence of the state’s cuisine. This elaborate platter consists of a variety of dishes, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavours:

• Dal & Kadhi – Light, slightly sweet lentil soup (dal) and a tangy, yoghurt-based curry (kadhi).
• Shaak (Vegetable Dishes) – A variety of seasonal vegetable preparations, often cooked with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and mild spices.
• Thepla & Puri – Soft and spiced fenugreek flatbreads (thepla) and deep-fried bread (puri).
• Steamed Rice & Khichdi – Fragrant basmati rice and comforting lentil-rice porridge.
• Farsan (Savory Snacks) – Dhokla, Khandvi, or Patra, which add a unique texture to the meal.
• Sweets (Mithai) – Delicacies like shrikhand, mohanthal, or basundi to end the meal on a sweet note.

A Gujarati Thali is not just a meal but an experience, offering a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, tangy, and savoury elements, making it one of the most satisfying meals in Indian cuisine.

Dhokla 

Dhokla is a soft, spongy, fermented cake made from chickpea (besan) or rice flour, steamed to perfection. This light and fluffy snack is known for its slightly tangy and mildly sweet taste, enhanced by a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chillies.

Served with green chutney and tamarind chutney, Dhokla is a healthy and protein-rich dish that is often enjoyed as a breakfast item, snack, or even as part of a festive meal. Variations like Khaman Dhokla (made with only chickpea flour) and Nylon Khaman (softer and juicier) add to the dish’s popularity.

Thepla 

Thepla is a thin, spiced flatbread made from whole wheat flour, fenugreek leaves (methi), and a blend of spices. It is lightly pan-fried with minimal oil, making it a healthy and travel-friendly snack. Theplas are often enjoyed with yoghurt, pickles, or chundo (sweet mango pickle), offering a perfect balance of flavours.

This dish is a staple in Gujarati households, commonly prepared in large batches for long journeys since it stays fresh for days without refrigeration. Variations include dudhi (bottle gourd) thepla and besan (gram flour) thepla, making it a versatile and nutritious meal option.

Undhiyu 

Undhiyu is a traditional Gujarati mixed vegetable dish, slow-cooked with a medley of seasonal winter vegetables, including yam, potatoes, eggplant, green beans, bananas, and methi (fenugreek) dumplings. The vegetables are coated in a flavourful green masala paste made from coconut, coriander, and spices, giving it a rich and aromatic taste.

This dish is a speciality during Makar Sankranti (Uttarayan), the kite-flying festival when families prepare and share this hearty meal. Traditionally cooked in earthen pots (matka) placed upside down, Undhiyu is a celebration of winter produce and a must-try for anyone looking to experience authentic Gujarati flavours.

Khandvi 

Khandvi is a delicate and melt-in-the-mouth snack made from gram flour (besan) and yoghurt, cooked to a smooth consistency, then spread thinly and rolled into bite-sized pieces. These silky rolls are light, tangy, and subtly spiced, making them an elegant and visually appealing dish.

The final touch comes with a tempering of mustard seeds, sesame seeds, green chillies, and fresh coconut, which enhances the flavours and gives the dish a delightful texture. Khandvi is often served as a tea-time snack or a starter, offering a unique combination of taste and softness in every bite.

Shrikhand 

Shrikhand is a rich and creamy yoghurt-based dessert made by straining thick curd (hung curd) and sweetening it with sugar, saffron, and cardamom. This cool and refreshing dessert is often served chilled and garnished with pistachios, almonds, and strands of saffron for an added touch of luxury.

A favourite during festivals and special occasions, Shrikhand pairs beautifully with fluffy puris, creating a sweet and satisfying meal. Variations such as Mango Shrikhand (Aamrakhand) add seasonal delight to this traditional dessert, making it a must-try for sweet lovers.

Where to Stay: Club Mahindra Resorts & Restaurants

Club Mahindra has several resorts in Gujarat, offering a comfortable stay and delicious vegetarian cuisine. Enjoy a memorable retreat at Club Mahindra Kensville Golf Resort, Ahmedabad. Savour vegetarian food at Barbeque Bay and Machan in Club Mahindra Gir, or try Gujarati vegetarian cuisine at Jeeman Restaurant in Club Mahindra Dwarka. Experience the best of vegetarian states in India with Club Mahindra.

5. Madhya Pradesh (50.6% Vegetarians)

Madhya Pradesh is among the states with the highest percentage of vegetarians in India. The cuisine reflects the state’s rich history and cultural heritage. Influenced by Rajasthani, Gujarati, and Maharashtrian flavours, it offers a variety of delicious vegetarian dishes. Vegetarianism by states in India is strong here, making it a great destination for vegetarian food lovers. The food culture in Madhya Pradesh reflects its royal past and deep-rooted traditions, making it a fantastic destination for foodies.

Some must-try vegetarian dishes from Madhya Pradesh include:

• Poha Jalebi – A breakfast favourite, flattened rice cooked with turmeric and spices, paired with crispy, sweet jalebis.
• Bhutte Ka Kees – A delicious grated corn dish, slow-cooked with milk and spices.
• Dal Bafla – A close cousin of Rajasthan’s Dal Baati, where wheat dough balls are baked and served with dal and ghee.
• Sabudana Khichdi – A light yet flavourful dish made with sago pearls, often enjoyed during fasting.
• Bhopali Gosht Korma (Vegetarian Alternative Available) – Traditionally made with meat, a vegetarian version of this dish is prepared with soya chunks or jackfruit.
• Lawanglata – A crispy, sweet delicacy stuffed with dry fruits and flavoured with cardamom.

Where to Stay: Club Mahindra Resorts & Restaurants

Club Mahindra offers great accommodations in Madhya Pradesh and delicious vegetarian cuisine. Stay at Club Mahindra Kanha near Kanha National Park for a peaceful retreat. Bundela Resort Bandhavgarh features a multi-cuisine restaurant with vegetarian food. Bundela Resort Khajuraho serves authentic Jain food at Café Mint. Experience vegetarianism by states in India with Club Mahindra.

Madhya Pradesh offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and food, making it a must-visit destination for travellers looking for both adventure and relaxation.

6. Himachal Pradesh (49.4% Vegetarians)

Himachal Pradesh, one of the top vegetarian states in India, offers a unique blend of Pahadi flavours with fresh ingredients and hearty meals. Due to its cold climate, the cuisine is rich and warm, made with local grains and dairy products. The state is perfect for vegetarian food lovers, with a high percentage of vegetarians in India.

Some must-try vegetarian dishes from Himachal Pradesh include:

• Dham – A traditional festive meal served on special occasions, featuring dal, rajma, rice, curd, and sweet dishes.
• Siddu – A steamed wheat-based bun stuffed with a mix of poppy seeds, walnuts, and jaggery, often enjoyed with ghee or chutney.
• Chana Madra – A thick, yoghurt-based curry made with chickpeas and aromatic spices.
• Aloo Palda – A comforting potato dish cooked in a creamy yoghurt-based gravy.
• Babru – A Himachali take on kachoris, stuffed with black gram paste and deep-fried to perfection.
• Tudkiya Bhath – A deliciously spiced Pahadi-style pulao cooked with lentils, potatoes, and yoghurt.

Where to Stay: Club Mahindra Resorts & Restaurants

Club Mahindra offers beautiful resorts in Himachal Pradesh, a state known for its rich food culture and one of the highest percentages of vegetarianism by state in India. Enjoy local Himachali vegetarian cuisine at Dhauladhar Restaurant in Club Mahindra Dharamshala. Experience great food at the fun dining restaurant at Club Mahindra Kandaghat (Shimla). In Manali, savour authentic flavours at Red Roof Restaurant in Club Mahindra White Meadows.

Conclusion

India’s vegetarian food culture is diverse, and these top vegetarian states in India have the highest percentage of vegetarians. Exploring vegetarianism by states in India is a treat, with dishes like Dal Baati Churma in Rajasthan and Undhiyu in Gujarat. Club Mahindra Resorts offers elegant stays and authentic vegetarian cuisine. Plan your trip to these Indian states with the highest vegetarian population and enjoy a flavourful vegetarian journey!