Introduction
Parathas are a quintessential part of Indian cuisine—flaky, buttery, and stuffed with everything from spiced potatoes to paneer, keema, or even sweet fillings like ghee and sugar. Whether it’s a hearty breakfast to kickstart your day or a comforting dinner to wind down, parathas are versatile, filling, and incredibly satisfying.
The best part? You don’t need to spend much to enjoy this iconic dish. Across India, there are countless budget-friendly eateries serving mouthwatering parathas for ₹20-₹100, making them accessible to everyone. From roadside stalls to small restaurants, these spots serve fresh, homemade parathas that are as flavorful as they are affordable.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the best budget-friendly paratha places in India , ensuring you can savor every bite while staying within your budget. So, whether you’re a traveler exploring bustling cities or a local looking for a quick meal, let’s dive into where you can find the tastiest and most affordable parathas for breakfast and dinner.
Why Focus on Budget-Friendly Parathas?
Before we get into the details, here’s why prioritizing budget-friendly parathas is essential:
- Affordable Prices : Most parathas cost ₹20-₹100, making them accessible to everyone.
- Authentic Flavors : These spots often use fresh ingredients and traditional recipes.
- Variety : From plain parathas to stuffed ones, there’s something for every palate.
- Cultural Experience : Eating parathas at these spots gives you a taste of regional specialties and traditions.
Pro Tip : Always carry cash, as many small eateries don’t accept digital payments.
Top 10 Best Budget-Friendly Paratha Places in India
1. Giani Di Hatti (Old Delhi)
Location : Chandni Chowk, Delhi
Cost : ₹30-₹80
Giani Di Hatti is a legendary spot in Old Delhi, known for its buttery parathas served with creamy white butter and tangy pickle. Their stuffed parathas, like aloo (potato) and gobhi (cauliflower), are particularly popular.
During a visit to Chandni Chowk, I tried their aloo paratha for ₹50. The crispy exterior and spicy filling were incredibly satisfying.
Key Fact : Pair your paratha with a glass of lassi—it’s a match made in heaven.
2. Parathe Wali Gali (Old Delhi)
Location : Chandni Chowk, Delhi
Cost : ₹40-₹100
Parathe Wali Gali is a narrow lane in Old Delhi lined with stalls selling a variety of stuffed parathas. From mooli (radish) to paneer (cottage cheese), the options are endless.
At one of the stalls, I had a paneer paratha for ₹80. The soft stuffing and flaky texture were unforgettable.
Pro Tip : Try their rabri (sweet dessert) with your paratha for a unique sweet-savory combo.
3. Murthal Dhabas (Haryana)
Location : Delhi-Jaipur Highway, Murthal
Cost : ₹60-₹120
Murthal is famous for its buttery parathas, especially along the Delhi-Jaipur highway. Many dhabas here specialize in stuffed parathas served with white butter and pickles.
During a road trip to Jaipur, I stopped at a dhaba in Murthal and ordered a gobhi paratha for ₹100. The generous amount of butter made it rich and indulgent.
Key Fact : Some dhabas offer unlimited refills of curd and pickle.
4. Amritsari Kulcha & Paratha (Amritsar)
Location : Katra Jaimal Singh, Amritsar
Cost : ₹50-₹100
Amritsar is synonymous with Punjabi cuisine, and this spot serves some of the best parathas in the city. Their stuffed kulchas and parathas are crispy, buttery, and packed with flavor.
At their Katra Jaimal Singh outlet, I tried their aloo paratha for ₹80. The combination of spices and butter was spot-on.
Pro Tip : Pair your paratha with chole (chickpeas) for an authentic Amritsari experience.
5. Arya Samaj Mandir Paratha Stall (Jaipur)
Location : MI Road, Jaipur
Cost : ₹40-₹90
This small stall near Arya Samaj Mandir in Jaipur is a hidden gem for paratha lovers. Their parathas are crispy, buttery, and served with tangy pickle and yogurt.
At their stall, I had a mooli paratha for ₹70. The mild radish filling and flaky texture were perfect for breakfast.
Key Fact : They also serve sweet parathas like ghee and sugar—a must-try!
6. Bikaner Sweets & Snacks (Hyderabad)
Location : Charminar, Hyderabad
Cost : ₹50-₹100
Bikaner Sweets & Snacks is a popular chain in Hyderabad, offering a variety of parathas like aloo, paneer, and pyaaz (onion). Their parathas are served with spicy green chutney and tangy pickle.
At their Charminar outlet, I tried their onion paratha for ₹80. The caramelized onions added a sweet and savory twist.
Pro Tip : Don’t miss their jalebi with rabdi for dessert—it’s equally delicious!
7. Laxmi Mishthan Bhandar (Jaipur)
Location : MI Road, Jaipur
Cost : ₹50-₹100
Laxmi Mishthan Bhandar (LMB) is famous for its sweets, but their parathas are equally popular. Their stuffed parathas, like paneer and gobhi, are crispy and flavorful.
At their MI Road outlet, I had a gobhi paratha for ₹90. The spiced cauliflower filling and flaky texture were spot-on.
Key Fact : LMB’s parathas are a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
8. Gurdwara Bangla Sahib Langar Hall (Delhi)
Location : Connaught Place, Delhi
Cost : Free
For an authentic and free paratha experience, head to the langar hall at Gurdwara Bangla Sahib. The parathas are simple yet delicious, served with dal, sabzi, and pickle.
During a visit to the gurdwara, I enjoyed their plain paratha with dal. The sense of community and generosity made it a memorable meal.
Pro Tip : Don’t forget to participate in the langar service—it’s a humbling experience.
9. Local Dhabas (Highway Stops)
Location : Across India
Cost : ₹50-₹100
Many highway dhabas offer budget-friendly parathas, especially during breakfast hours. These parathas are often cooked fresh and served with white butter and pickle.
At a dhaba near Lonavala, I had a plain paratha with butter for ₹60. The homemade flavors and generous portions made it a comforting meal.
Pro Tip : Look for dhabas with high footfall—they’re often fresher and tastier.
10. Haldiram’s Restaurants (Across India)
Location : Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Pune
Cost : ₹60-₹120
Haldiram’s is known for its packaged snacks, but their restaurants also serve delicious parathas. Their stuffed parathas, like paneer and aloo, are crispy and flavorful.
At their Delhi outlet, I tried their paneer paratha for ₹100. The soft stuffing and flaky texture were perfect for dinner.
Pro Tip : Pair your paratha with their lassi or chaas for a refreshing combo.
Tips for Finding Budget-Friendly Parathas
- Visit During Off-Peak Hours : Many places offer discounts or smaller crowds during late mornings or early evenings.
- Ask Locals for Recommendations : They often know the best hidden gems for authentic and affordable parathas.
- Check for Combo Meals : Combos with curd, pickle, or chutney are often cheaper than ordering items individually.
- Look for Takeaway Options : Takeaway parathas are often slightly cheaper than dining in.
Pro Tip : Avoid eating raw items like salads or cut fruits at stalls—they may pose health risks.
Sample Paratha Plan for a Day Trip
Here’s an example of how you can plan your meals for a day while staying within a budget of ₹200-₹300:
| Meal | Food Option | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | Aloo Paratha (Parathe Wali Gali) | ₹80 |
| Dinner | Paneer Paratha (Haldiram’s) | ₹100 |
FAQ Section
Q1: Where can I find the cheapest parathas in India?
A: Local dhabas and stalls in markets like Chandni Chowk or Murthal often sell parathas for ₹40-₹80.
Q2: Are street paratha stalls safe to eat at in India?
A: Yes, as long as you choose clean and busy stalls, street parathas are generally safe.
Q3: Can vegetarians find parathas on the street?
A: Absolutely! Most street parathas are vegetarian, often filled with mashed potatoes, paneer, or vegetables.
Q4: How much does a typical paratha cost in India?
A: Most parathas cost between ₹40-₹120 , depending on the location and type of filling.
Reference : Food Safety Guidelines by FSSAI
Conclusion
Finding the best budget-friendly paratha places in India is easier than you might think. From the buttery parathas of Murthal to the crispy delights of Parathe Wali Gali, there are countless places where you can enjoy this iconic dish without overspending. By following the locals, exploring regional specialties, and trying these budget-friendly spots, 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 paratha stalls and dhabas. With these tips, you can enjoy every bite of your meal without worrying about the bill.
Have you discovered any hidden gems for budget parathas 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!