Travel Cafe Bucket List – Best Cafes To Haunt When Travelling In India

Tucked away from the prying eyes of the world, this nondescript cafe overlooks the Bhagsunath Falls. A two-kilometre trek along the gurgling waters of the Bhagsu Rivulet will take you there. The interior of this travel cafe teleports you back to the 60’s era of the hippies with its psychedelic artwork. Location: Bhagsu Nag Waterfall Pathway, Dharamsala Must Try: Pasta and Pancakes Cost for two: INR 500/-

A dazzling red signboard in the midst of the bustling town will definitely catch your eye after sundown. Located in the market square this rooftop travel cafe in India offers a vantage point to observe life at McLeodGanj. Grab a window seat at McLlo, pick from a wide array of cocktails or sumptuous snacks that it offers and watch the world go by below you. Location: City center, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala Must Try: Butter Chicken Cost for two: INR 1000/-

The idyllic town of Kasol is no stranger to backpackers and hippies. Retaining the essence of this town is Shiv Shanti Cafe. This is a chilled out travel cafe in India is filled with colourful lights and low-rise wooden table where you can sit and enjoy the crisp mountain air. Location: Parvati Valley, Kasol Must Try: Israeli food Cost for two: INR 500/-

Live music, dishes names after famous metal bands such as ‘Slayer Pizza’ and ‘Burger of Bodom’, Cafe 1947 is truly a haunt for music lovers. Located on the banks of the River Manalsu, this quaint travel cafe perfectly encapsulates the charm of old Manali with its dimly lit interiors and cosy ambience. Location: Old Manali, near the bridge on the way to Manu Temple Must Try: Mutton burger with side salad and Veg Pasta with cheesy garlic bread Cost for two: INR 1000/-

Living up to its name, Drifter’s Cafe is a regular meet-up point for travelers and is always buzzing with activity and excitement. It is best known for its breakfast offerings, and the chefs will also customize food at this travel cafe in India to indulge your taste buds. Location: Manu Temple Road, Old Manali Village Must Try: All pizzas Cost for two: INR 350/-

Oh Magic Cafe is located a little away from Kasol in a small village called Challal. It is a semi-open space which offers a breathtaking view of the Himalayan slopes lines with ubiquitously spotted coniferous trees and the mighty Parvati River. Catering to the palates of the gamut of travellers who visit Kasol every year, this travel cafe in India offers Israeli, Italian as well as Indian cuisine. Location: On the way to Challal, Kasol Must Try: Paranthas Cost for two: INR 400/-

The moment you walk into this cafe, it will envelop you in its warmth and radiance. Wake and Bake Cafe is located on the 2nd floor of a building at Mall Road and overlooks the busy street of Shimla on one side and the valley on the other. The waffles, pancakes, and crepes are a must try here. Location: 34/1, Mall Rd, The Mall, Shimla Must Try: Creamy Herb Chicken Cost for two: INR 700/-

A cafe with a title as interesting as it’s a tagline, ‘Let’s’ Roll it Again,’ this is the perfect place to satiate the hippie in you. The walls are adorned with the frames of Jim Morrison and the Beatles that lend it a classic look. Soak in the spiritual air of the Rishikesh and then spend a quiet evening in this travel cafe in India listening to 60’s playlist while you enjoy the spread that it offers. Location: Paidal Marg, Tapovan, Hanuman Mandir, Rishikesh Must Try: Lasagna Cost for two: INR 400/-

An unpretentious looking travel cafe, on Mall Road, this place offers a range of coffees and shakes to die for! You can lounge on the sofas or perch yourself on one of the ‘scooter’ seats while you dig into any of their desserts and your purpose of visiting Mussoorie shall be fulfilled! Location: Opp. Baskin Robins, 1st Floor, The Mall, Mussoorie Must Try: Oreo Shake, Blueberry Shake Cost for two: Rs 400/-

Since its inception in 2007, Backpackers Cafe has successfully carved a niche for itself in Chandigarh’s social circuit with its all-day breakfast menu. The travel artefacts and newspaper format menu along with a plethora of English breakfast dishes helped this cafe to break away from the clutter of ‘dhabas’ and pin itself on the backpacker’s map of travel cafes in India. Location: 16, Inner Market, Sector 9D, Near Chandigarh Dance Academy, Sector 9, East, Chandigarh Must Try: Caramel Cheese Cake Cost for two: INR 1200/-

Balmy air, resounding waves and lip-smacking sea-food are all it takes to make a perfect beach holiday. Located at the famous Om beach, Namaste Cafe is the ideal place to chill. Indulge all your gastronomic cravings with a range of local seafood delicacies that this travel cafe offers. Location: Om Beach Road, Gokarna Must Try: Banana Pancake Cost for two: INR 800/-

Located near the Virupaksha Temple in the main Hampi bazaar, Mango Tree Cafe has an earthy setting, bringing you closer to the rustic charm of Hampi. The Tungabhadra River runs close by lending this travel cafe in India a soothing atmosphere. Must Try: Special thali and Coconut Lassi Cost for Two: INR 500/-

Dyu is short for ‘Dviti’ in Sanskrit, which means brightness. Living up to its name, Dyu Art Cafe oozes brightness and vibrancy. This travel cafe, despite being located amidst the hustle and bustle of Bangalore city, offers an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. Location: Koramangala, Bangalore Must Try: Classic chocolate cake Cost for Two: INR 400

Comfortable colonial furniture, open garden and free wi-fi accompanied by French dishes such as sandwiches baguette, croque-monsieur makes it an ideal travel cafe for anybody who wishes to spend a quiet evening alone. Location: 10, Suffren Street, White Town, Pondicherry Must Try: Crepes Cost for two: INR 800

A must visit spot on any backpacker who visits Darjeeling, Gatty’s Cafe is the only place in this laid-back town that has a pulse post 9 pm. You can watch a movie with your friends in their lounge or enjoy karaoke and live music as they serve you some delicious pasta and ravioli from their kitchen. Location: Below Omni Guesthouse, T V Tower, Dr. Zakir Hussian Road, Darjeeling Must Try: Spaghetti Al Pomodoro Cost for Two: INR 600

Glenary’s is the perfect place to start your mornings with its myriad offering of breakfast options. This pretty little travel cafe in India has comfortable seating where you can relax and enjoy the view of the mountains. Location: Nehru Road, Ganeshgram, Darjeeling Must Try: Meat pie Cost for Two: INR 250/

A must try for adventure and sports lover, Cafe Refuel, is one of the few motorcycles themed travel cafes in India. It offers magazines, foosball and board games to keep guests entertained. This beautiful travel cafe also offers mountain bikes for hire. Location: 8th Mile, Near St.Philomena School Phatak, Kalimpong Must Try: Carrot Cake Cost for Two: INR 400/-

Paris Cafe is as French as French gets. From the tastefully pretty wrought-iron furniture, artefacts and the golden-hued interiors to the lavish spread of French cuisine, this cafe is every bit grandiose and sophisticated as its counterparts in Champs Elysee. Nothing says travel cafe as well as French arty beauty and grandiose, right? Location: 1/1, Ashutosh Chowdhury Avenue, Opposite Ice Skating Rink, Ballygunge, Kolkata Must Try: Red Velvet Pastry Cost for Two: INR 650/-

A travel cafe with a contemporary vibe, Cafe Caffeine, appeals to the outlier in you with its psychedelic graffiti, casually placed guitars, black leather sofas and Manga comics. Location: 4th Floor, Jasokie Building, Main Town, Kohima Must Try: Beef Stroganoff Cost for Two: INR 500/-

As the name suggests, this cafe is Gangtok’s most happening venue for loud music, flashy lights and high-energy atmosphere. Watch the live performances here with delicious appetisers and sparkling drinks. Location: Enchey Compound, Tibet Road, Power Secretariat, Gangtok Must Try: All cocktails Cost for Two: INR 300/-

Perched atop a cliff, offering a mesmerizing view of the Arabian Sea below, Cafe Del Mar is the perfect place to jump-start your day. It offers some delicious coffee and a variety of breakfast options, as is with the most clandestine travel cafes that you’ll see around! Location: North Cliff, Varkala Must Try: Avacado Salad and Kerala Fish Soup Cost for Two: INR 750/-

Hungry Eye Kitchen is located right across the ocean and offers an unhindered view of the sea, which adds to the charm of this beautiful travel cafe in India. The Thai cuisine here is a must try. Location: Middle Cliff, Varkala, Trivandrum Must Try: Thai Red curry Cost for Two: INR 300/-

Cafe Malabar is a seafood lover’s haven. It located on the promenade of Lighthouse Beach and is popular among travelers for its quality and choice of food. Regional specialties and a view to kill are the takeaways from this awesome travel cafe! Location: Lighthouse Beach Road, Kovalam, Trivandrum Must Try: Tandoori Fish Cost for Two: INR 500/-

Welcome to Teapot Land! Teapots dangle from the ceiling and fan here. The walls are done up with tea-related paraphernalia, and tea cartons make for tables. The unique theme of the travel cafe definitely warrants one visit. Location: Pete Celli Street, Fort Kochi Must Try: Appam and Blueberry Cheese Cake Cost for Two: INR 350/-

Fun, youthful and charming perfectly sums up the vibe of this travel cafe. It has a terrace with potted plants, lending to it homely energy. Books, board games and retro posters of movie stars and cartoon characters make it a crowd puller among the youth. Location: E 89, Sainik Puri Main Road, Sainik Puri, Hyderabad, Hyderabad Must Try: Stuffed Chicken fillet and Cinnamon hot chocolate Cost for Two: INR 500/-

Tito’s has an in-house bakery and confectionery that serves freshly prepared cakes, pastries, and bread round the clock. The seating arrangement is a mix of cafe and lounge that appeals to the lounging tourist as well as the business traveler. Location: Titos Lane, Saunta Vaddo, Baga, Goa Must Try: Beef Steak Burger and Apple Pie Cost for Two: INR 700/-

Curlies was one of the original shacks to be set up on Anjuna beach. Home to some of the most famous trance parties this is a must visit travel cafe for the hippie in you. Location: Anjuna Beach, Goa Must Try: Beef Chilli and Chicken Momos Cost for Two: INR 1000/-

Leopold’s is a place that has witnessed Mumbai evolve. Existing since 1871, this cafe easily blends with it’s surrounding owing to its nondescript exterior. Popular among backpackers and locals alike, this cafe is constantly buzzing with chatter and conversation. Location: S.B. Singh Road, Colaba Causeway, Mumbai Must Try: Leopold Special Chicken Pasta Cost for Two: INR 1000/-

Candies is a travel cafe with a Portuguese villa feel to it! It has an outdoor terrace as and an indoor seating called Room of Lamps because of the Moroccan lamps decorating the room. The walls are done up with handcrafted celebrity mosaics, adding a tinge of quirkiness to the cafe. Location: Next to Learners Academy School, Pali Hill, Bandra West, Mumbai Must Try: Spaghetti Carbonara and Mini Samosas Cost for Two: INR 400/-

A place that prides itself on its coffee, Cafe Cariappa is heaven for true coffee lovers. The coffee beans which are procured from local organic farms are roasted and ground in-house. Visit this delightful, wood-paneled travel cafe to enjoy the wide array of coffees. Location: PT Road, Kodaikanal Must Try: Carrot Cake Cost for Two: INR 200/-

Located in the midst of the city, Amethyst Cafe insulates you from the chaos outside it. Opt for the garden seating if you prefer the green and the quaint. If you’re visiting Chennai for pleasure, Amethyst Cafe is a travel cafe that should not be missed. Location: Next to Corporation Bank, Whites Road, Royapettah, Chennai, Must Try: Grilled chicken sausages and Sweet Lassi Cost for Two: INR 1000/-

This is a quiet vegetarian eatery located in the peaceful lanes of Koregaon Park. It offers some interesting items on its menu like the Yogi special like Pok Choy and mixed greens with brown rice. Visit this travel cafe if you want to sit for hours and do absolutely nothing! Location: 294/2, Lane A, Off North Main Road, Koregaon Park, Pune Must Try: Pancakes and Croissants Cost for two: INR 1000/-

This Indo-Iranian cafe has a bohemian soul. The soft lighting, jazz music and the Persia seating has successfully placed this travel cafe on the hip & trendy circuit of Pune. Location: Survey No. 35 & 36, ABC Farms, Koregaon Park, Pune Must Try: Iranian Kebab Platter and Turkish Coffee Cost for two: INR 1500/-

Y Cafe has a very homely feel to it. The white wooden furniture and stacks of books around you add to the warmth of this place. The walls in this travel cafe have been done up with a collection of motivational quotes reminding you of the walls in your bedroom. Location: Hotel White House, Behind St. Joseph’s Academy, Subhash Road, Karanpur, Dehradun Must Try: Bruschetta Cost for two: INR 500/-

A travel cafe Run by an Indo-German restaurateur who rustles up some of the most delicious home-style meals, 4 Tables is the hidden gem of Bir. The gallery which regularly hosts local art exhibitions is definitely a must-see for every visitor. Location: Gunehar Village (Bir), Kangra Valley, Bir Must Try: Wood-fired pizzas Cost for two: INR 600/-

Located in one of the most happening places of Delhi, Hauz Khas Village, Kunzum Travel Cafe is a place where travelers meet and swap stories over coffee which has a pay-what-you-like policy! This is one hip travel cafe to spend your Sunday afternoons, meeting new people! Now isn’t that what travel is all about! Kunzum also hosts some really great travel meetups and talks, every once in a while. Location: T-49, GF, Hauz Khas Village, New Delhi, Delhi Must Try: Coffee Cost for two: Pay as you like, for coffee and cookies!

Located at the heart of Leh on a sprawling agricultural plot is Open Hand Bistro & Bar. The travel cafe offers an array of cuisines and has been developed with intention of creating a perfect retreat for artists. Location: Hotel Bijoo, Library Rd, Leh, Jammu, and Kashmir Must Try: Lemon Cheese Cake and Ginger lemon honey tea Cost for two: INR 400/-

Italy and India coexist in perfect harmony on Assi Ghat in the form of Pizzeria Vaatika. Established in 1993, this cafe is the first authentic Italian pizzeria in India. Enjoy the mesmerizing view of the Holy River while you gorge on some lip-smacking pizzas in this perfectly bohemian travel cafe! Location: B-1/178, Assi Ghat, Varanasi Must Try: Ravioli, Vatika Special (Thin Crust) Pizza, Apple Pie with ice cream Cost for two: INR 700/-

You’ll definitely feel like ‘Alice’ in ‘Wonderland’ when you step into Mrs. Magpie. The doll-house decor, bright facade, and the vibrant interiors add to the magical charm of this travel cafe. The assortment of sweets and savories on the menu will leave you spoilt for choice. Location: 570 Lake Terrace Extension (Keyatala), Kolkata Must Try: Cupcakes and Marzipan animals Cost for two: INR 400/-

A humble-looking cafe with conspicuous bare brick walls will definitely catch your eye in the colorful town of Pushkar. A cafe with a free-spirited feel to it, Pink Floyd Cafe is frequently flocked by backpackers in search for the quintessential travel cafe experience. Location: Choti Basti, Pushkar, India Pushkar Must Try: Pizza Cost for two: INR 400/-

Raja’s Cafe started by two Swiss sisters at a time when the sleepy town of Khajuraho was just beginning to gain significance on the global traveler circuit. This iconic travel cafe has beautiful garden seating which offers a spectacular view of the famous Khajuraho temples. Location: Near Hotel Siddhartha, Opposite western group of temples, Sevagram, Khajuraho Must Try: Chicken Curry Cost for two: INR 350/-

Anokhi is a local cafe with an international fare. It is famous for its organic ingredients procured from their farms. The ‘modha’ seating lends this travel cafe a local flavor and makes it a perfect hangout place among foreigners and locals alike. Location: KK Square, Prithviraj Rd, Panch Batti, C Scheme, Ashok Nagar, Jaipur Must Try: Baked Mascarpone Cheesecake and Brie Sandwiches Cost for two: INR 1000/-

Travelers Cafe is a rooftop cafe located inside La Casita, a Center of Latin American Art and Culture. Offering a fantastic view of the city of Pondicherry, this cafe is a cosy place to spend a quiet evening while enjoying some great Tibetan food. Location: 147, Eeshawaran Koil Street, Pondicherry Must Try: Momos Cost for two: INR 500/-

Travelers Cafe is a rooftop cafe located inside La Casita, a Center of Latin American Art and Culture. Offering a fantastic view of the city of Pondicherry, this cafe is a cozy place to spend a quiet evening while enjoying some great Tibetan food. Location: 147, Eeshawaran Koil Street, Pondicherry Must Try: Momos Cost for two: INR 500/-

Located in the hippie portion of Hampi, Laughing Buddha is an idyllic travel cafe with a rustic ambiance. It is set inside a bamboo hut and dotted with an eclectic collection of wall hangings. Settle on the cushy mattresses and low rise wooden table and enjoy the vast range cuisines that it offers. Location: Virupapur Gadde, Hampi Must Try: Israeli cuisine Cost for two: INR 300/-

Popular among the locals, Munchies cafe offers a cozy bamboo structure along with an open air patio. It has a mix of Lebanese, American and Italian cuisine and plays some brilliant western music to go along with the delicious menu to go with its peaceful travel cafe vibe. Location: Rani Villa, Near Don Bosco Square, Laitumkhrah Main Road, Laitumkhrah, Shillong Must Try: Juicy Lucy Burger Cost for two: INR 350/-

With tastefully done interiors and a wide choice of the menu makes Mr. Beans one of the best places to hang out in Indore. The rustic, French-styled interiors lend it the charm of the 19th century whiles the timeless classics that play in the background have a soothing effect on you. Location: 100 Saket, Old Palasia, Indore Must Try: Banoffee Pie and thin-crust pizzas Cost for two: INR 600/-

Dreaming tree restaurant is a quaint rooftop cafe with hammocks and a healthy offering of organic food. The platter ranges from healthy soups and dark, leafy green salads to homemade breads & cakes. Location: R.A.O Colony, Ramana Nagar, Tiruvannamalai Must Try: Grilled Paneer-veg baguettes Cost for two: INR 400/-

Nestled inside a 17th Century haveli, Savage Garden offers a wide array of Mediterranean cuisine. It has a cozy setting with indigo colored walls and tables in alcoves set in a large courtyard. Location: 22, Chandpole, Udaipur Must Try-: Ravioli with Lamb Ragu and cheese and carrot rice Cost for two: INR 750/-

Nimrah is located close to the Charminar and is considered a part of Hyderabad’s rich heritage and legacy. It belongs to the fast disappearing breed of Irani cafes, and a visit here is must for every traveller. Location: Shop 20-4-1238/1239, Charminar Main Road, Near Makkah Masjid, Charminar, South, Hyderabad Must Try:Osmania biscuits and ‘chai’ Cost for two: NR 200/-

Kushinagar occupies a significant place in the Buddhist pilgrimage circuit. Located in this little known district in UP, Yama Cafe is the most preferred destination among travellers. It’s a cosy travel cafe with limited seating capacity and the best place to go to for information about the place. Location: Buddha Marg, Kushinagar Must Try: Thukpa Cost for two: INR 500/-

A cozy travel cafe run by a couple with a cute kid shall give you a very homely vibe if you decide to visit here. Herbal infusion teas, lots of home-cooked, amazing food and the friendly hosts shall leave you feeling extremely loved. But wait until you try the hostess’ baked goods here. Location: Binsar Road, Kasar Devi Must Try: Banana and Nutella Waffles and Pancakes Cost for Two: INR 400

A great place with a guest house and a friendly travel cafe, Blue Umbrella lets you enjoy your holiday to this beautiful Himalayan town in the peace and quietude with your amazing hosts. Location: Kuthrith Road, Bir Must Try: Mixed Vegetables and Nachos Price for Two: INR. 600

With each piece of furniture, every corner and crevice telling a different story, Cafe Regal is an interesting place to be if you ever find yourself in the colonial steel town. The host is a friendly face who will tell you his passionate tale of the cafe and happily chat away with you during your meal. Enjoy the board games if you’re there with friends, or dabble in a set of Jenga with the enthusiastic youths who spend their evenings in the cafe! Location: Regal Building, Bistupur Must Try: Parsee Dhansak and Pasta Alfredo Price for two: INR. 600

Good food and great bakery options make up this paradise up-top. The Gesmo Travel Cafe serves nearly everything that you could be looking for, and at really affordable prices and great tastes. Location: Fort Road, Leh Must Try: Baked food Price for Two: Rs. 500 A travel cafe is an amazing place to spend any time of the day, reading a book as the world goes by!