The best way to learn about a region’s cuisine is to try out its traditional Best Thalis. A Thali is entree, main course, desserts and beverages, all combined and plated in a single platter. We present to you 20 Indian Thalis you must try!
You might also be interested in knowing the best traditional dishes of Rajasthan.
20 Best Thalis Of India
1. Thali from The Land of Maharajas
Rajasthan is the renowned for its rich Royal history, Mahals (palaces) and a distinct yet amazing connection with the rural life. This Indian state is one of the favorites amongst tourists from abroad and why not? Comprising of Mal Puas, Dal Bati churma, Mava Kachori and much more! One of the best thalis of Rajasthan.
2. Punjab Di Thali
A wholesome, full-flavored meal can be thoroughly enjoyed from the Land of Five Rivers. Ranging from Sarson Ka Saag, Chole, Jeera Rice, Dal Tadka, Cool cucumber Raita, Gulab Jamun and much more, this Thali is surely an outburst of flavors!
3. Thali from The Earth’s Paradise
A quick search in google images regarding Jammu Kashmir’s scenic beauty will clear your doubts, if you have any, as to why it is called Paradise of Earth. This breath-taking place is prominent for the unique blend of food flavors. The Kashmiri Thali can be a meat lover’s ecstasy. It includes Dum Aloo, Matschgand (lamb meatballs) Modur Pulaav, Rogan Josh, a sweet, among many other delicacies. One may even be served Kahwah along with this Thali.
4. Thali from The Tourist’s Paradise
Goa is excessively famous for its beaches; one may even call it the National Beach Destination of India. As magnificent and awesome are its beaches, the Goan cuisine is also quite delicious. Mainly consisting of sea-food and rice, an authentic Goan Thali also includes Goan Dali Thoy, Rice Bhakri, Kormula, Kele Ambat, Sol Kadhi, veg Vindaloo and a yummy Banana Halwa. Do try it out when you visit this exotic state!
5. The Delicious Trip to Maharashtra
The Maharashtrian Thali reflects its mouthwatering cusine and can be eaten for lunch every day, because it’s that light! Including Sabudana Vada, Kanda Poha, our dear Pav-Bhaji, Danyachi Usal, Varan, Aamras, Mattha, and Sheera- this spectacular meal is fully packed with all the key dishes Maharasthra has to offer!
6. The Kathiawadi Thali
Authentic Gujarati dishes have a sweet-savory touch. Undoubtedly, Gujarati meal is pretty rich and buttery yet exceedingly tasty to feast on. A proper Thali from the state is mainly inclusive of two types of the good-old Dhokla, Raaswala and Khaman Dokhla, Methi Thepla, a yum Gujarati Dal, Bajra Bhakri and a refreshing Chaas to digest such a heavy meal!
7. A Taste of Bihar
A Bihari Thali is also known as the Bhojpuri Thali. It is dominated by numerous vegetarian delights such as Besan ki Sabji/Sabzi and Ghughni along with a few desserts namely Gurma and Tikari for those of who have a sweet tooth. The heroes of this platter are Sattu ka Paratha and crispy Bharbharas. Along with this, an extraordinary Sattu Milkshake will blow your mind!
8. A Feast from The Land of Tea Gardens
Assam has tea gardens like none in any Indian state. The people of this beautiful state devour on fresh, herby and such food which has high nutrition value. An Assamese Thali includes Khar, Bilahi Boror Tenga, Aloo Pitika, Lusi, Organic rice and Sanmeholi Chutney. A special dessert, Gooror Payash, is also served for the sweet lovers.
9. The Bengali Dance of Flavor
West Bengal is not only about Roshugullas or Mishti Dois; the entire Bengali cuisine is truly a heavenly one, a delight everyone must try! A slight play with tangy, spicy and sweet results in a surreal burst of flavors which will leave you highly impressed. The signature dishes include Shorshe Ilish (Bengali fish curry), Chingri Maacher Malaicurry (Prawn curry), Aloo Posto, Kosha Maangsho (Mutton),, Sondesh and of course, steaming hot-hot rice!
10 Destination Karnataka
Karnataka, which was earlier known as Mysore is packed with the authentic taste of South Indian cuisine. Notable dishes of this state’s Thali include Akki roti, Udipi Sambhar, Cabbage Upkari, Pineapple Grapes Gojju, Maddur Vada and a sweet dish, Belgaun Kunda. All the listed dishes have an inviting appeal and are loved by all!
11. The Manipuri Saga
Manipur is a true traveler’s go-to place. It is filled with wonderful destinations and the food is one of its kind too! The exciting dishes in a Manipuri Thali are served in cups which are made out of banana leaves. One look at this never-ending Thali will make you think twice before digging in, but don’t worry, the food is just too awesome to be precisely described in words. The Thali chiefly consists of a wide range of vegetables along with fish. Reportedly, various travelers relish the ‘Black rice Kheer and Pineapples dipped in a yellow syrup. The former is an authentic Manipuri dessert and ought not to be missed even if you decide to ditch the Thali! (which you shouldn’t)
12. Thali from The Land of The Hills
The Thali from Mizoram, as is seen in other North-Eastern States, has rice (Sawchiar) as their dominant dish, whereas others mainly include Mizo Bai, Hmarcha Rawt (a type of chutney), Mizo Chow, Iskut Chhum and Dal. Towards the end of the meal, jaggery and black tea ae also served. One of the best thalis from mizoram with white rice.
13. Heart of Incredible India
Madhya Pradesh’s cuisine is known for its simple yet flavorsome dishes which are so light that you will be left wanting more! This platter includes Dal Bafla, which almost look and taste like Dal Bati, Butte ke Kees, the famous Indori Poha, Mawa Jalebis coated in Chashni and an excellent Shahi Shikanji. Few items, full flavor at its best! One of the best thalis of India to try when you are looking to have some spicy and masala item.
14. We Must Stop at Orissa
The Odisha cuisine is quite simple, with a blend of some southern and north-eastern flavors, this Thali is known for its intricate flavors. Rice, fish, Pakhala, Kandaka Jhola, Phala Rasgulla, Baigan Chatka and Panna Sakranti are some of the most favored dishes, though you may find a variety of others too!
15 Gift of A Blessed Festival
Navratri is synonymous with fasting for quite a few days. In such a period, when no onion or garlic is to be consumed, one is left perplexed. Hence, this Thali is custom made for this very festival; it includes Sabudana Khichdi, Sitafal, Kuttu Ki Puri, Singade ke Pakode, Sabudana Wada, Soma Rice, Kele ki Sabzi and Shrikhand. Such a healthy amalgamation is perfect for our dear friends who fast!
16 Thali of The Most Populous State of India
Uttar Pradesh’s Thali is extensive, consisting of Dal, two or three types of veggies, curd, sweets along with Phulka dipped in Desi Ghee. A delightful experience for anyone who loves thrives on vegetarian North Indian food.
17 The 29th State
Telangana has culture, both of heritage and cuisine, of its own. This South Indian state provides a myriad of splendid dishes in its traditional Thali. The important dishes include plain rice, lemon rice, Rasam, Jonna Roti, Kuntikura Pappu (lentils made in rozelle leaves). It is available in veg, non-veg and sea food variations, and each one has a few main culinary wonders of its own.
18. Nagaland Diaries
This sister out of the other seven is known for its added chili flavor to the cuisine. Pork too is largely eaten in the state; however, local vegetables are a part of the meal too. Prominent dishes are Naga Tomato Chutney, Rongmei Naga Style (a dessert). Remarkably, less oil is used and the meat or vegetable portions are steamed or roasted instead, which make them highly nutritious. One of the popular Nagaland Best Thalis.
19. The Haryanvi Thali
Haryana gives India its fair share of sports person. On seeing this Thali, you’ll know why because the natural, robust, pure flavors and nutrients are packed in this meal. Ranging from Bajra aloo roti, Methi ki sabzi, Hara Dhania Cholia, buttermilk and a sweet, Alsi ki Pinni, this Thali serves it all.
20. Ever Heard of The Pahari Cuisine?
Himachal Pradesh can offer you an ethnic Pahari meal. This Thali is also ruled by mighty vegetables and it includes Babru (a type of bread), Channa Madra, Khatta, Meetha Baath and Aloo Palda. These dishes and their flavors might be new for you, so do try them! One of the best Thalis to have when you are in hunger.
