India is a paradise for food lovers, and the street food scene is no exception. Its bustling streets are filled with vendors selling an array of mouth-watering delicacies that reflect the country’s rich culinary heritage. For budget travelers, these street food spots offer an affordable way to taste authentic Indian cuisine.

One cannot talk about Indian street food without mentioning Mumbai’s Khau Galli. Known as ‘Eat Street,’ this place offers everything from spicy chaat to sweet desserts. One must-try dish here is Vada Pav, a deep-fried potato dumpling served in a bread bun, often described as Mumbai’s version of a burger.

Next on the list is Kolkata’s Puchka stalls scattered across the city. Known elsewhere as Panipuri or Golgappa, Puchka consists of hollow crispy puris filled with tamarind water and spiced chickpeas – an explosion of flavors in every bite! Another popular spot in Kolkata is Tiretti Bazaar, famous for its Chinese breakfast dishes like momos (dumplings) and sausages.

In Delhi, Chandni Chowk stands out as a haven for food enthusiasts. The area boasts several century-old eateries serving everything from parathas stuffed with various fillings at Parathe Wali Gali to succulent kebabs at Karim’s. Not to forget Aloo Tikki – mashed potato patties served with tangy chutneys – which can be found at almost every corner.

Heading down south to Chennai brings us face-to-face with Murugan Idli Shop – renowned for its soft idlis (steamed rice cakes) served with an assortment of chutneys and sambar (lentil soup). Also worth trying are the crisp dosas smeared with fiery red chutney and stuffed with spiced potatoes.

For those traveling westward towards Gujarat, Ahmedabad’s Manek Chowk should not be missed. Known for its night food market, you can indulge in local favorites like Dhokla (savory steamed cake), Fafda-Jalebi (crispy snack paired with sweet jalebi), and the innovative Ice-cream Sandwich.

In the coastal city of Goa, street food takes a unique turn with a mix of Portuguese influence. The Goan Sausage Pav – spicy chorizo-like sausages tucked into local bread rolls – is a must-try. Also, don’t miss out on the freshly prepared seafood snacks available at various beach shacks.

India’s street food scene is as diverse as its culture, each region offering something unique to tantalize your taste buds. It’s not just about filling your stomach; it’s about experiencing the country’s culinary diversity without burning a hole in your pocket. So if you’re traveling through India on a budget, these top street food spots are sure to provide an unforgettable gastronomic adventure!