Sri Lanka is ultimate vegetarian paradise for Indian travellers. The food feels comforting and also familiar for Indians. Beyond the stunning landscapes and warm hospitality, the island is vegetarian haven. The culinary philosophy of island perfectly aligns with Indian preferences. This makes Sri Lanka an easy and delicious destination for vegetarian travellers.
The cuisine in Sri Lanka is plant friendly. The foundation involves lots of vegetables, coconut and lentils and spices that align with Indian palate.
The legendary Rice and Curry – this a vegetarian dream lunch. The servings of generous mound of rice surrounded by several small bowls of different curries. Curry varieties include beetroot, jackfruit, mango, cashew nuts and pumpkin. When ordering specify you want vegetarian selection and you get vibrant feast full of flavors.
Staples and Street Foods – the staple food consumed daily is mainly vegetarian or vegan. People favorites include Pol Sambol, a mixture of groundnuts, chili and lime and dhal, a meal of spicy lentils. Snacking options include vegetable roti called Elawalu Roti. This is spiced vegetables put in flaky bread and grilled. another great option is Ulundu Vada, which is savory lentil doughnuts.
If you want pure vegetarian foods go to areas with strong Hindu cultural presence. There also pure veg restaurants. Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka offer great vegetarian food options. For example, in Colombo you find authentic South Indian thalis and dosas from Shanmugas and Saraswathie Lodge.
Even though there are familiar Indian dishes in Sri Lanka, it great to try Sri Lanka creations. Popular delicacies include:
Hopper (Appa) – this bowl-shaped fermented rice flour and coconut milk pancake with crispy edges and soft center. Get served with side of vegetarian curry or lunu miris which is onion and chili paste.
String Hoppers also Idiyappam – this steamed nest of rice nests normally eaten for breakfast with dhal or coconut milk gravy.
Kottu Roti – this favorite street food and is shredded flatbread stir-fried on hot griddle with vegetables, spices and curry sauce.
Jackfruit Curry also called Polos- sweet, sour and spicy pickle like food made with fried eggplant and is great accompaniment for rice dishes.
Vegetarians from India have it easy travelling in Sri Lanka because of the cultural and practical harmony of nationals. India and Sri Lanka share history and culture. These meals that Sri Lankan flavors will feel familiar to Indians. Both countries use spices like cardamon, clove and curry leaves and foods like rice, lentils and coconut are common in both.
Vegetarian food particularly local cuisine is very affordable. A big plate serving of rice and curry cost around 100 to 200 Indian Rupees. You can find vegan options in street stalls and also hotels making the food option accessible to all.
Sri Lankan welcoming nature plays part in understanding peoples dietary preferences. The country has diversified religions and therefore nationals put into consideration that some religions may have diet restrictions. Wherever visiting don’t hesitate to tell your diet preference.
Local Joints - these have modest settings and serve classic lunch plate with about 3 to 5 vegetable curries, dhal and sambal. It is perfect for authentic budget friendly meal and make sure to inform them vegetarian only when ordering.
Pure Vegetarian Restaurants – these are mainly found near Hindu temples and don’t serve meat, fish or eggs. They have extensive menu of Sri Lankan dishes and also Indian delicacies. It perfect for strict vegetarians and Jains. You can ask them not to add onion or garlic to your food.
Hotel restaurants and Tourist Cafes – these serve western and fusion foods and also local delicacies. They are welcoming of dietary requests. Tell them specific needs. These may be more expensive and less authentic than local spots.
Communication – English is widely spoken in Sri Lanka so clearly state your preference. When ordering tell the waiters you don’t want any kind of meat, eggs or dairy. Proper communication is key for good meal.
Look for Best Spots – do research online and look for reviews to find best vegan serving places. For pure vegan food go eat at restaurants with strong Hindu cultural presence.
Be open-minded- Don’t be closed off to only Indian vegetarian cuisine. Be open to try out Sri Lankan delicacies, those almost to Indian delicacies and also those different.
Enjoy a taste of home with Sri Lankan twist. Vegetarians have variety options for vegan food. Sri Lankan foods are mostly plant based so it is easy to find vegan food. the best place to find pure vegan food is near religious sites especially places with Hinduism culture. Engage your taste buds on a flavorful journey with tastes of different vegan delicacies. From a fragrant jackfruit curry to familiar dhal-filled dosa, enjoy different vegan food during your Sri Lankan tour.
