Haryana
Explore the beauty, culture, and attractions of Haryana.
Top Attractions
3 Days in Ambala for a Tasty Food Trip
Ambala might not be the first place that comes to mind for food lovers, but this small city packs some serious flavor. From legendary street food spots to hidden gems serving traditional Haryanvi dishes, I've spent years discovering the best bites here. This itinerary covers all my favorite places, balancing must-try classics with local specialties you won't find elsewhere.
Trip Highlights
Best Time to Visit
Share Your Adventure
Spread the word about this amazing trip!
Day 1
Day 1 in Ambala
Kick off your Ambala food journey with a mix of iconic sights and must-try local flavors, from bustling markets to legendary street food spots.
Activities
St. Paul’s Church & Old City Walk
Start your day with a peaceful visit to St. Paul’s Church, a beautiful colonial-era landmark with serene surroundings. Then, take a stroll through the old city lanes, soaking in the old-world charm and spotting hidden gems like tiny local sweet shops.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven lanes
- Ask locals for their favorite sweet shop—they’ll point you to hidden spots
Ambala’s Famous Chole Bhature at Shyam Sweets
No visit to Ambala is complete without digging into the city’s legendary chole bhature. Shyam Sweets, a decades-old institution, serves fluffy bhature with spicy, tangy chole that locals swear by. Pair it with their thick lassi for the full experience.
- Go early—they often run out by afternoon
- Try their jalebi if you have a sweet tooth
Raja Market & Evening Street Food Crawl
Spend the late afternoon browsing Raja Market, known for its vibrant textiles and local handicrafts. As evening falls, hit the nearby street food stalls for Ambala’s famous dahi bhalla, kachori, and hot jalebis fresh from the kadhai.
- Bargain gently at the market—it’s expected
- Follow the crowd to find the busiest food stalls (a sign of quality)
Must Try Foods
Transportation
No destinations found for this itinerary
Day 2
Day 2 in Ambala
Today, we dive deeper into Ambala’s local flavors and hidden gems, from historic markets to iconic eateries and a peaceful retreat by the river.
Activities
Patel Market & Local Shopping
Start your morning at Patel Market, a bustling hub for traditional Haryanvi handicrafts, textiles, and spices. The market is less touristy than Raja Market (visited on Day 1) and offers a more authentic local vibe. Look for Phulkari dupattas, handmade juttis, and Ambala’s famous pickles.
- Bargain politely—prices are often inflated initially.
- Try the fresh sugarcane juice from street vendors nearby.
Lunch at Bhagat Halwai
No visit to Ambala is complete without tasting the legendary kachoris and jalebis at Bhagat Halwai, a 70-year-old institution. Their crispy, spicy kachoris paired with sweet, syrupy jalebis are a match made in heaven. The no-frills setting adds to the charm.
- Go for the 'special kachori'—it’s their signature.
- Carry cash; they don’t accept digital payments.
Riverside Relaxation at Ghaggar River
Wind down by the Ghaggar River, a serene spot where locals gather for evening walks. The riverfront isn’t commercialized, making it perfect for a quiet break. Watch fishermen at work or just enjoy the sunset with a cup of chai from a nearby stall.
- Wear comfortable shoes—the riverbank can be uneven.
- Visit the small Hanuman temple nearby for a local experience.
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Hidden Gems of Ambala
A relaxed day exploring lesser-known spots and savoring local flavors that most visitors miss.
Activities
Morning at Rani Ka Talab
Start your day at this serene, historic pond surrounded by old temples and a peaceful atmosphere. It's a great spot to watch locals go about their morning routines, feed the fish, or just enjoy the quiet. The nearby Hanuman Temple adds to the spiritual vibe.
- Carry some change if you want to buy fish feed from local vendors
- Dress modestly if visiting the temple
Breakfast at Ram Lal's Kachori Wala
A legendary hole-in-the-wall spot that's been serving crispy, spicy kachoris with aloo sabzi for generations. The texture is perfect - flaky outside, soft inside - and the flavors are bold. Pair it with their signature sweet and tangy tamarind chutney.
- Try their special 'meethi kachori' for dessert
- Don't expect fancy seating - it's a humble street-side setup
Explore the Cantt Area & Military Heritage
Ambala's Cantonment area has a distinct colonial charm with wide tree-lined roads and old British-era bungalows. Visit the War Memorial near Golf Course for a quiet moment reflecting on India's military history. The nearby Army Museum (if open) offers interesting artifacts.
- Photography may be restricted near military areas - look for signs
- Stop by the quaint St. John's Church nearby if you have time