Pan is a betel leaf in which are wrapped spices such as aniseed and cardamon. Besides the main dishes, the re are also countless irresistable snacks available on every street corner, such as samosa, fritters, dosa and vada. For the more conservative visitor, western cooking can always be found. Indeed, the best styles of cooking from throughout the world can b e experienced in the major centres in India. Tea is India's favourite drink and many of the varieties are famous the world over.
Coffee is increasingly popular.
Indian b eer and gin are comparable with the world's best, and are not expensive. Note that Liquor Permits are required in Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. The variety of Indian cooking is immense, it is colourful and aromatic, it can be fiery or not as desired and it is in expensive even at the top class hotels. No wonder then that it is now the third most popular cuisine in the world - nor will it be any more surprising when it becomes the first.