Introduction
Traveling through India’s vast network of highways is an adventure in itself. The journey becomes even more memorable when you stop at roadside eateries to savor delicious and affordable meals. Whether you’re driving from Delhi to Jaipur or cruising along the scenic Western Ghats, India’s highways are dotted with budget-friendly food spots that serve hearty, flavorful dishes.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the best budget food on Indian highways , ensuring you can enjoy every bite without breaking the bank. So, whether you’re a solo traveler, a family on a road trip, or a backpacker exploring the country, let’s dive into where you can find affordable yet delightful meals along the way.
Why Focus on Highway Food?
Before we get into the details, here’s why highway food deserves your attention:
- Affordable Prices : Most meals cost ₹50-₹200, making them accessible to everyone.
- Authentic Flavors : Highway eateries often serve home-cooked meals made with fresh, local ingredients.
- Cultural Experience : Stopping at dhabas and stalls gives you a glimpse into regional cuisines and traditions.
- Convenience : These spots are perfect for quick breaks during long drives.
Pro Tip : Always carry cash, as many highway eateries don’t accept digital payments.
Top 10 Best Budget Eateries on Indian Highways
1. Murthal Dhabas (Delhi-Jaipur Highway)
Location : Murthal, Haryana
Cost : ₹80-₹150
Murthal is famous for its buttery parathas, served with creamy white butter and tangy pickle. These dhabas are a must-stop for anyone traveling between Delhi and Jaipur.
During a road trip to Jaipur, I stopped at a dhaba in Murthal and ordered aloo paratha with lassi. The paratha was crispy, buttery, and incredibly satisfying.
Key Fact : Some dhabas offer unlimited refills of curd and pickle.
2. Petha Stalls (Agra-Lucknow Highway)
Location : Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Cost : ₹20-₹50
Petha, a translucent sweet made from ash gourd, is a specialty of Agra. Roadside stalls near the Taj Mahal sell freshly made petha in various flavors like kesar, angoor, and elaichi.
At a stall near the Agra highway exit, I bought a box of kesar petha for ₹40. It was soft, sweet, and the perfect post-meal treat.
Pro Tip : Look for stalls selling homemade petha—they’re fresher and tastier.
3. Bikaneri Bhujia Stalls (Jaipur-Bikaner Highway)
Location : Bikaner, Rajasthan
Cost : ₹30-₹80
Bikaneri bhujia, a spicy snack made from gram flour and spices, is a must-try when traveling through Rajasthan. Many highway stalls sell packets of this crunchy delight.
During a trip to Bikaner, I picked up a small packet of bhujia for ₹50. It was spicy, crispy, and perfect for munching during the drive.
Key Fact : Pair bhujia with a cold drink or chai for a complete snack experience.
4. Chole Bhature Stalls (Delhi-Chandigarh Highway)
Location : Karnal, Haryana
Cost : ₹60-₹120
Chole bhature is a Punjabi classic—spicy chickpea curry served with deep-fried bread (bhature). Many dhabas along the Delhi-Chandigarh highway specialize in this dish.
At a dhaba in Karnal, I tried chole bhature for ₹100. The flavors were bold, and the portion was generous enough to keep me full for hours.
Pro Tip : Some places offer unlimited refills of chole and pickles.
5. Filter Coffee Shops (Bangalore-Mysore Highway)
Location : Karnataka
Cost : ₹20-₹60
The Bangalore-Mysore highway is dotted with small filter coffee shops, serving strong, aromatic coffee brewed in traditional South Indian style.
At a roadside shop near Mandya, I had a glass of filter coffee for ₹30. The robust flavor and creamy texture were unmatched.
Key Fact : Filter coffee is often brewed in large batches and served piping hot.
6. Kebab Stalls (Lucknow-Kanpur Highway)
Location : Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Cost : ₹40-₹100
Lucknow is known for its melt-in-the-mouth kebabs, and many highway stalls serve these delicacies at affordable prices.
During a trip to Kanpur, I stopped at a kebab stall near Lucknow and tried seekh kebabs for ₹80. The smoky flavors and tender texture were unforgettable.
Pro Tip : Pair kebabs with mint chutney for extra tanginess.
7. Masala Dosa Stalls (Mumbai-Pune Highway)
Location : Lonavala, Maharashtra
Cost : ₹50-₹100
Lonavala, a popular pit stop on the Mumbai-Pune highway, is famous for its crispy masala dosa served with coconut chutney and sambar.
At a small eatery in Lonavala, I ordered a masala dosa for ₹80. The dosa was thin, crispy, and packed with flavor.
Key Fact : Some stalls serve mini idlis soaked in sambar for extra flavor.
8. Lassi Stalls (Amritsar-Delhi Highway)
Location : Amritsar, Punjab
Cost : ₹30-₹80
Amritsar is synonymous with creamy, sweet lassi, and many highway stalls serve this refreshing drink in kulhads (earthen cups).
At a stall near the Golden Temple highway exit, I had a glass of sweet lassi for ₹50. It was thick, creamy, and incredibly refreshing.
Pro Tip : Add a pinch of cardamom powder for extra aroma.
9. Pav Bhaji Stalls (Mumbai-Ahmedabad Highway)
Location : Vadodara, Gujarat
Cost : ₹40-₹100
Pav bhaji is a popular Mumbai street food—a spicy mashed vegetable curry served with buttered buns. Many highway stalls along the Mumbai-Ahmedabad route serve this dish.
At a dhaba in Vadodara, I tried pav bhaji for ₹80. The creamy texture and tangy flavors made it one of my favorite meals during the trip.
Key Fact : Some stalls serve variations like cheese pav bhaji for an extra indulgent treat.
10. Fruit Chaat Stalls (Chennai-Bangalore Highway)
Location : Hosur, Tamil Nadu
Cost : ₹30-₹70
Fruit chaat is a refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like bananas, papayas, and pomegranates, sprinkled with lemon juice and spices. Many highway stalls near Hosur sell this healthy snack.
At a fruit chaat stall near Hosur, I bought a plate for ₹50. It was juicy, sweet, and incredibly refreshing.
Pro Tip : Add a dash of black salt for extra tanginess.
Tips for Finding Budget Food on Indian Highways
- Stop at Busy Dhabas : High footfall ensures food is fresh and prepared quickly.
- Ask Locals for Recommendations : They often know the best hidden gems for cheap and tasty food.
- Check Hygiene Standards : Look for clean utensils and proper handwashing practices.
- Carry Snacks : Keep some dry snacks like biscuits or roasted peanuts for emergencies.
Pro Tip : Avoid eating raw items like salads or cut fruits at highway stalls—they may pose health risks.
Sample Highway Food Plan for a Day Trip
Here’s an example of how you can plan your meals for a day trip while staying within a budget of ₹300-₹500:
| Meal | Food Option | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | Paratha with Lassi | ₹100 |
| Lunch | Chole Bhature | ₹120 |
| Evening Snack | Kebabs + Mint Chutney | ₹80 |
| Dinner | Masala Dosa + Coconut Chutney | ₹100 |
FAQ Section
Q1: What is the cheapest food on Indian highways?
A: Parathas , kebabs , and fruit chaat are among the cheapest options, costing ₹30-₹100.
Q2: Is it safe to eat at highway dhabas in India?
A: Yes, as long as you choose clean and busy dhabas, they are generally safe.
Q3: Can vegetarians find food on Indian highways?
A: Absolutely! Most dhabas and stalls offer vegetarian options like parathas, dosas, and vegetable curries.
Q4: How much does a typical meal cost on Indian highways?
A: Most meals cost between ₹50-₹200 , depending on the location and type of food.
Reference : Food Safety Guidelines by FSSAI
Conclusion
Finding the best budget food on Indian highways is easier than you might think. From the buttery parathas of Murthal to the refreshing lassis of Amritsar, there are countless places where you can enjoy flavorful and affordable meals. By following the locals, exploring dhabas, and trying regional specialties, you can savor the country’s rich culinary heritage while staying within your budget.
So, pack your appetite and embark on a flavorful journey through India’s highways. With these tips, you can enjoy every bite of your road trip without overspending.
Have you discovered any hidden gems for highway food in India? Or do you have a favorite spot that didn’t make the list? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!