CULINARY TRAVELS
India is a foodies delight. The streets of the cities, towns and villages are filled with the aroma of spice. From street food tours to dining in world-famous restaurants, the options are endless in India. And why not learn for yourself with market tours, hands-on classes, vineyard visits and more.
​
Please send us an email or complete the Tailor-made Holidays Enquiry Form to help plan your
Tailor-made Culinary Travels itinerary!
LUCKNOW
Lucknow rose to prominence after the fall of the Mughal Empire and has a long history of being a strategic point for rulers of Northern India. The Delhi Sultanate, the Mughals and the British Raj, all considered Lucknow to be of great importance. But no dynasty has had a more lasting impact on the culture of Lucknow than the Nawabs of Awadh who ruled in 18th and 19th century. They transformed the city by patronising arts and culture and paving the way for Lucknow to become the cultural capital of North India. But the most lasting legacy these rulers left, was the food. Without doubt, its most famous ‘export’ is Biryani, a dish synonymous with the city. Its ubiquitous influence has resulted in several versions of it, such as the famous Calcutta biryani and Hyderabadi biryani. And if that's not enough, Tunday Ke Kabab, also known as Galouti kebab (pictured), said to incorporate over 150 different spices, is a real treat that people travel from all over the country to enjoy.
NASHIK
About three hours north of Mumbai by car is the holy town of Nashik. Significant to Hindus, it is home to almost 200 shrines and the town is believed to be a spot where Lord Rama and his wife Sita bathed. But surprisngky, in more recent years this is not the only reason people have been visiting Nashik. The area has gained notoriety as India’s fastest growing wine region and the country’s largest winery, Sula, is based here. They have been growing wine in the region for well over 20 years. All varieties are produced and more recently, French wine house, Chandon, has even established a vineyard here. Wine drinking is still emerging in India, but if you interested to go to the source, an overnight visit is a perfect stop enroute to the famed Ajanta Caves.
MUMBAI
Mumbai is known for its distinctive street foods - many of which are the result of the many cultures that have made Mumbai their home over the centuries. Vada Pav (a fried batter-coated potato dumpling in a soft white bread roll with chilli) and the Pav Bhaji (pictured) are two favourites. Although street food is common all over India, it is particularly notable in Mumbai, because people from all levels of society eat on the roadside almost round the clock. It is said that the taste of street food is better than restaurants in the city! Probably debatable - the restaurants are fantastic and world class. There are a number of internationally recognised restaurants in Mumbai, with a many focused on contemporary interpretations of traditional Indian dishes that make dining in the city really exciting. We have a lot of recommendations to offer guests!
KERALA
The history of the Keralan spice trade spans thousands of years. The Malabar Coast of Kerala was witness to the arrival of Arabs, Chinese, and European powers including the Portuguese, French and British all seeking these most treasured and traded commodities. The hot and humid climate here is ideal for growing spices including ginger, clove, nutmeg, cinnamon, turmeric, cardamon, star anise, curry leaves, Malabar tamarind, cumin seeds and basil. But it was in fact, black pepper, once referred to as "Black Gold", due to the fact that it cost as much as gold, pound for pound, that was the most in-demand spice. In Kerala take the opportunity to explore spice markets and plantations, forage with local chefs and create your own culinary masterpieces all while learning and appreciating the fascinating history of this delcisious region.
