India: The Complete Guide with Cave Temples, Game Parks and Expanded Coverage of Nepal

Pleasures and Pastimes Dining Indian dishes, which vary from region to region, are elevated to high art. Meat, seafood, vegetables, lentils, and grains proliferate in splendid combinations -- subtle and enticing. The word curry is a British corruption of the Hindi word kari, the aromatic leaf of the kari plant; typical "curries" are dishes with masala (a spicy gravy). Over the centuries, each invading force introduced new cooking techniques, new products, and new dishes that continue to appear on the restaurant table. The Moguls above all, did much to revolutionize Indian cooking, especially in the north, introducing biriyanis (rice dishes), kormas (braised meat or vegetable dishes), kebabs, kofta (meat or vegetable balls), dum pukht (aromatic dishes that are sealed and slow-cooked), and the tandoori method of food preparation. The British introduced simple puddings and custards. The Tibetans who emigrated to India brought momos (steamed dumplings), kothay (fried dumplings), and hearty noodle soups called thukpa. In the northeast, the Bengalis and Assamese took advantage of the nearby waters and created dishes with an emphasis on fish. Gujaratis, Rajasthanis, and Hindus from the south, who all tend to shun meat, developed India's vegetarian cuisine. South Indian coffee has a caramel tang and is inexpensive. In much of India, however, expect instant coffee. Tea is excellent; it is frequently brewed Indian-style with milk and sugar. In Buddhist areas, you find butter tea; the salty flavor helps ward off dehydration, and the butter keeps your lips from cracking. India produces excellent beer, and its Riviera brand wine is reasonably good. Luxury hotels also import spirits that are available at luxury prices. Sikkim manufactures good rum, brandies, and paan liqueur. Chang (local wine), made from distilled barley or rice, is available in many mountain destinations. Goa has tasty sweet wines and feni (a potent liquor made from cashew nuts). Many restaurants offer great meals at bargain rates in an Indian or a lingering British-Raj setting that makes you feel far from home. Street stalls, cooking up simple specialties, can satisfy an eating urge at almost no cost. In many cities, eating out at a locally favorite restaurant can be a special culinary adventure. Don't be afraid to ask your hotel for the name of a popular restaurant that draws a crowd. At all times, however, do pay attention to food precautions. Shopping Every region specializes in its own products and makes them available at unbeatable prices. Villages still exist where the majority of the residents are weavers, painters, or sculptors. Similar artisan districts remain within the old bazaars of many cities. India holds annual handicraft melas (fairs) in popular tourist destinations, where the visitor can shop and watch the artist or weaver at work. India has the world's largest rug industry. Tibetan refugees and the Sikkimese make superb carpets with Buddhist themes. Also consider India's dhurries (cotton or wool rugs), with charming folk or tribal motifs. Particularly fine dhurries come from Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. India (especially Delhi, Rajasthan, and Karnataka) has wonderful silver work, including old ethnic and tribal jewelry. In many cases the silver is not pure, so ask when you're negotiating the price. Gold jewelry is another smart purchase. In many cities (Bombay, Calcutta, Delhi, Jaipur, and Madras) you'll find jewelers who can quickly design to order. The price per gram is determined by the world rate, but the cost for the workmanship is a bargain. Precious and semiprecious stones, beautifully cut and highly polished, are another good investment, with great savings. In particular, Jaipur has wonderful gems that can be bought separately or fashioned inFodor's Travel Publications, Inc. Staff is the author of 'India: The Complete Guide with Cave Temples, Game Parks and Expanded Coverage of Nepal' with ISBN 9780679023036 and ISBN 0679023038.