Top 16 Indian Restaurants in Sri Lanka: Locations, Prices & Must-Try Dishes

Travelling to Sri Lanka but not ready to give up your favourite Indian meals? You don’t have to.  From crispy South Indian dosas and rich butter chicken to fragrant biryanis, the sheer variety of Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka ensures you never have to miss the authentic tastes of home. 

Whether you are looking for vegetarian food or completely Jain dishes, Sri Lanka promises an unforgettable explosion of authentic flavours. When travelling with family or groups with different preferences, a customised Sri Lanka package helps you to find Indian food and plan meals more easily. This guide covers the top Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka along with their location, must-try dishes, prices and experiences. 

Which Indian Restaurant Should You Choose?

If you want a quick shortcut, use your itinerary first. Staying in Colombo gives you the widest choice. Kandy is particularly useful for South Indian and vegetarian food, while Nuwara Eliya has strong hotel-based Indian dining.

• For South Indian food: start with Balaji Dosai, Shanmugas, Thalis or Sri Krishna Dosai.
• For vegetarian food: Thalis, Shanmugas, Balaji Dosai and Nagalingam’s Bhavan are the clearest fits.
• For Jain-friendly dining: Nagalingam’s Bhavan is specifically listed as a pure-vegetarian Jain restaurant; confirm dietary requirements directly before ordering.
• For a more polished meal: Navratna in Colombo and Grand Indian in Nuwara Eliya are better suited to a longer sit-down meal.
• For North Indian food: Chana’s and Indian Summer are useful options, while Grand Indian also focuses on North and Central Indian cuisine.
• For a family meal: choose based on your route rather than crossing a city purely for a restaurant. Chana’s, Indian Summer and the larger hotel restaurants can suit a more leisurely meal.

Best Indian Restaurants in Colombo

Colombo has the widest variety of Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka, from casual South Indian eateries to premium restaurants serving North Indian and Mughlai dishes. Whether you want a quick dosa, hearty biryani or a special dinner, there is an option for every budget and taste. 

1. Indian Summer Restaurant

Started in Colombo and now with branches in Nuwara Eliya and Beruwala, Indian Summer runs a solid North Indian menu. If you are craving butter naan, dum aloo, mutton kebab, or tandoori chicken alongside a few Asian fusion dishes, this is a must-add restaurant to a 7-day Sri Lanka itinerary. It’s one of the few on this list with a shisha lounge and a banquet hall, which makes it a good pick if you’re travelling as a group or celebrating something.

• Address: 11 Palm Grove, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka
• Timings: 11:00 AM–11:00 PM; Friday and Saturday until midnight
• Cost for two: Around LKR 6,000–8,000 (₹1,740–₹2,320)
• Must-Try Dishes: Mutton pot biryani, butter chicken, paneer butter masala, naan 

2. Thalis

Looking for vegetarian Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka? Consider visiting Thalis in Colombo. The restaurant is known for South and North Indian vegetarian dishes, including dosai and idli. Dosa, naan, curries and Indian sweets are among the popular choices. 

• Address: 05, 155 Park Road, Colombo 05, Sri Lanka
• Timings: 7:30 AM–11:00 PM daily
• Cost for two: Around LKR 2,000–4,000 (₹580–₹1,160)
• Must-Try Dishes: Masala dosa, butter masala, garlic naan, samosa

3. Shanmugas

If dosa, idli and vada are what you are craving, Shanmugas is worth a stop on your Sri Lanka itinerary. This popular vegetarian restaurant in Colombo focuses on South Indian favourites but has plenty of other vegetarian dishes too. It is a good choice for a quick breakfast or a relaxed casual meal.

• Address: 53/3 Ramakrishna Road, Wellawatte, Colombo 06, Sri Lanka
• Timings: 8:00 AM–10:00 PM daily
• Cost for two: Around LKR 2,000–4,000 (₹580–₹1,160)
• Must-Try Dishes: Masala dosa, idli, vada, South Indian thali

Tips: Don’t forget to make a reservation before you head to the restaurant.

4. Navratna Restaurant – Taj Samudra

Looking to turn dinner into a special occasion? Navratna at Taj Samudra offers Indian food in a luxury hotel setting. It is an Indian speciality restaurant with Mughal-inspired menus and offers lunch and dinner service at its Colombo property on Galle Face Centre Road. Try one of the biryanis or pair a paneer dish with fresh naan.

• Address: Taj Samudra, 25 Galle Face Centre Road, Colombo, Sri Lanka
• Timings: 12:30–2:30 PM and 7:30–10:30 PM daily
• Cost for two: Around LKR 20,000+ (₹5,800+)
• Must-Try Dishes: Gosht dum biryani, murg zaffrani biryani, paneer dishes, Indian desserts

5. Kandoori

Travelling with a group where everyone wants something different? Kandoori is the best spot to add to your Colombo itinerary. This is also one of the best Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka. Its menu combines Indian dishes with Chinese, Western and Sri Lankan options. For Indian food, go for the curries, biryani and naan.  

• Address: No. 17, Charlemont Road, Colombo 06, Sri Lanka
• Timings: Open daily; timings vary by branch
• Cost for two: Around LKR 4,000–6,000 (₹1,160–₹1,740)
• Must-Try Dishes: Chicken makhani, chicken masala, butter naan, garlic naan

6. Bombay Borough

Want Indian food with a modern setting? Bombay Borough at One Galle Face is one of the top Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka. The restaurant brings dishes from different parts of India into a lively, contemporary space. It is also convenient if you are already exploring Colombo Fort or shopping at One Galle Face.

• Address: L1, One Galle Face Mall, Colombo 01, Sri Lanka
• Timings: 12:00 PM–11:00 PM daily
• Cost for two: Around LKR 6,000–8,000 (₹1,740–₹2,320)
• Must-Try Dishes: Paneer tikka, butter naan, mutton biryani, butter chicken

7. Madras Darbar Indian Restaurant

If you want both North and South Indian dishes in one place, Madras Darbar is one of the best spots to visit in Sri Lanka. The menu covers everything from dosas and vegetarian curries to tandoori dishes and biryani. This is also an ideal destination for late dinners. 

• Address: 41A, Ridgeway Place, Marine Drive, Colombo, Sri Lanka
• Timings: 11:00 AM–12:00 AM daily
• Cost for two: Around LKR 2,000–5,000 (₹580–₹1,450)
• Must-Try Dishes: Masala dosa, tandoori platter, chicken curry, biryani

8. Manjal Hotels and Restaurant

Manjal stands out if biryani is high on your Sri Lankan food list. The restaurant has a strong Indian menu and a more polished setting than a typical casual eatery. This is an ideal spot for biryani lovers and a more premium Indian meal.

• Address: No. 14, Sri Sumanatissa Mawatha, Colombo, Sri Lanka
• Timings: 12:00–4:00 PM and 6:00–11:30 PM daily
• Cost for two: Around LKR 10,000 (₹2,900)
• Must-Try Dishes: Nellai mutton biryani, chicken biryani, Indian curries, naan

9. Chola Authentic Indian Restaurant

Chola is a good choice if you want both North and South Indian food in Colombo. Its menu has a strong focus on tandoori dishes, curries and Indian breads, with plenty of vegetarian options too. You can also choose set meals if you want to try several dishes at once.

• Address: No. 52, Nelson Place, Wellawatta, Colombo 06, Sri Lanka
• Timings: Check the current outlet timings before visiting
• Cost for two: Around LKR 4,000–8,000 (₹1,160–₹2,320)
• Must-Try Dishes: Tandoori chicken, biryani, Indian curries, naan

Indian Restaurants in Kandy

Kandy has a good mix of Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka, particularly for South Indian and vegetarian food. From crispy dosas at Balaji Dosai and Sri Krishna Dosai to Jain-friendly meals at Nagalingam’s Bhavan, you can find both quick, affordable meals and more relaxed dining options. 

10. Nagalingam’s Bhavan

Finding Jain-friendly food while travelling can be tricky. Nagalingam’s Bhavan makes it easier. This pure vegetarian restaurant in Kandy is known for dishes prepared without onion and garlic. It is simple, affordable and a useful stop if dietary preferences are important to you.

• Address: 77 Colombo Street, Kandy, Sri Lanka
• Timings: 3:00–10:00 PM daily
• Cost for two: Around LKR 2,000–4,000 (₹580–₹1,160)
• Must-Try Dishes: Thali, masala dosa, mango lassi, jackfruit fritters

11. Balaji Dosa

Sometimes you just want a crispy dosa after a long day of sightseeing. Balaji Dosai in Kandy is made for that. The menu focuses on South Indian vegetarian food, with dosas, idlis, vadas and meals taking centre stage. It is also a budget-friendly option when you want something quick and filling.

• Address: 03 D.S. Senanayake Veediya, Kandy, Sri Lanka
• Timings: Around 7:30 AM–9:30 PM daily
• Cost for two: Around LKR 1,300–2,500 (₹377–₹725)
• Must-Try Dishes: Masala dosa, ghee dosa, idli, vada

12. Chutneys at Cinnamon Citadel Kandy

Want Indian food with a view? Add Chutneys at Cinnamon Citadel Kandy to your Kandy itinerary. Set beside the Mahaweli River, it brings the popular Chutneys dining concept from Colombo to Kandy. The menu covers both North and South Indian flavours, with biryani, thali, dosa and regional curries.

• Address: Cinnamon Citadel Kandy, 124 Srimath Kuda Ratwatte Mawatha, Kandy, Sri Lanka
• Timings: 12:30 PM–10:00 PM daily
• Cost for two: Around LKR 4,000–8,000 (₹1,160–₹2,320)
• Must-Try Dishes: Hyderabadi biryani, Murgh Achari, Dal Makhani, Masala Dosa, Rajasthan Laal Maas

Restaurants in Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya has a smaller but worthwhile selection of Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka, making it easy to enjoy familiar flavours while exploring the hill country. Grand Indian is a standout for North and Central Indian cuisine, while Indian Summer is another convenient option for travellers staying in or passing through the town. 

13. Grand Indian Restaurant

If Nuwara Eliya is already part of your Sri Lanka itinerary, you can make the restaurant a meal stop without adding a separate city transfer. Grand Indian at The Grand Hotel is one of the best Indian restaurants in Nuwara Eliya. This restaurant serves North and Central Indian cuisine, with lunch and dinner service and a specialised Indian chef. It also offers vegetarian and vegan menu options.

• Address: Grand Hotel Road, Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
• Timings: 12:00–3:30 PM and 6:30–10:30 PM daily
• Cost for two: Around LKR 8,000–10,000 (₹2,320–₹2,900)
• Must-Try Dishes: Butter chicken, mutton biryani, paneer tikka, garlic naan

Top Restaurants in Sri Lanka: Matara Road, Central Province, Rajagiriya

If your Sri Lanka itinerary takes you beyond central Colombo, you can still find plenty of Indian food along major routes and neighbourhoods. Indian Tadka on Matara Road, Sri Krishna Indian Restaurant in Palapathwela and The Sanctuarii in Rajagiriya are convenient options for travellers looking for familiar Indian flavours while exploring different parts of the island.

14. Indian Tadka Sri Lanka

Indian Tadka is a good choice if you are travelling along the southern side of Colombo. The menu focuses on familiar Indian favourites, making it an easy option for families and groups. Its location on Matara Road also makes it useful if you are heading towards the south coast.

• Address: No. 447/A, Matara Road, Sri Lanka
• Timings: Check current timings before visiting
• Cost for two: Around LKR 4,000–8,000 (₹1,160–₹2,320)
• Must-Try Dishes: Biryani, butter chicken, naan, Indian curries

15. Sri Krishna Indian Restaurant

Heading through central Sri Lanka rather than staying in Colombo? Sri Krishna Indian Restaurant in Palapathwela is worth knowing about. You can try naan, biryani and paneer, while vegetarian options are also available. It can be a convenient stop if you are travelling around the Matale area.

• Address: 16 D Kirigalapoththa, Palapathwela, Central Province, Sri Lanka
• Timings: 10:00 AM–10:00 PM daily
• Cost for two: Around LKR 2,000–10,000 (₹580–₹2,900)
• Must-Try Dishes: Naan, biryani, paneer, butter chicken

16. The Sanctuarii

The Sanctuarii is a good option if your group wants more than just Indian food. Its menu includes Indian, Thai, Asian and Sri Lankan dishes, making it easier to please different tastes at the table. The restaurant also has a modern setting with both indoor and outdoor seating.

• Address: 475/C Sri Jayawardenepura Mawatha, Rajagiriya, Sri Lanka
• Timings: 11:00 AM–11:00 PM daily
• Cost for two: Around LKR 4,000–6,000 (₹1,160–₹1,740)
• Must-Try Dishes: Indian specialities, Sri Lankan dishes, Thai dishes and cocktails

Tips for Exploring Indian Restaurants in Sri Lanka

• North or South Indian: Choose South Indian spots for dosas and idlis, or North Indian restaurants for tandoori dishes, curries and biryani.
• Pure Veg: Look for “Pure Vegetarian” restaurants if you follow a vegetarian or Jain diet.
• Spice Levels: Ask for “mild” or “less spicy” if you prefer gentler flavours.

• Service Charge: A 10% service charge is commonly added to restaurant bills.
• Timings: Check restaurant hours, especially between lunch and dinner.
• Water: Stick to sealed bottled water at local or budget restaurants.

Which Indian Restaurants in Sri Lanka should I Consider?

Choosing among the Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka depends on your taste, budget and location. For South Indian favourites, Shanmugas, Balaji Dosai and Thalis are good picks. If you prefer North Indian dishes, Indian Summer, Grand Indian and Navratna offer more options. For a premium dining experience, Chutneys at Cinnamon Citadel Kandy is worth considering. Aren’t you already tempted by all these flavourful delicacies offered by these amazing top Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka? What are you waiting for? Go ahead and book yourself a customisable Sri Lanka trip that you’ve dreamt of all this while.

FAQs

1. What are the best Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka?
A: Some of the best Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka include Indian Summer Restaurant, Thalis, Shanmugas, Navratna at Taj Samudra, Nagalingam’s Bhavan, Balaji Dosai and Grand Indian Restaurant. The best choice depends on whether you prefer South Indian, North Indian, vegetarian, Jain-friendly or premium dining.

2. Where can I find the best Indian restaurants in Colombo?
A: Colombo has the widest choice of Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka. Indian Summer, Thalis, Shanmugas, Navratna at Taj Samudra, Kandoori, Bombay Borough, Madras Darbar, Manjal and Chola are popular options across the city.

3. Are there vegetarian Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka?
A: Yes. You can find several vegetarian Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka. Thalis and Shanmugas in Colombo, Balaji Dosai in Kandy and Nagalingam’s Bhavan are good options for vegetarian South Indian meals, dosas, idlis, thalis and curries.

4. Which Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka serve authentic South Indian food?
A: For South Indian food, consider Shanmugas, Thalis and Balaji Dosai. Their menus include favourites such as dosa, idli, vada and South Indian thalis. Nagalingam’s Bhavan in Kandy is another option, particularly for vegetarian diners.

5. Where can I find North Indian food in Sri Lanka?
A: Indian Summer in Colombo is a good choice for North Indian dishes such as butter chicken, naan, tandoori chicken and kebabs. Grand Indian in Nuwara Eliya and Navratna at Taj Samudra in Colombo also offer North Indian-inspired menus.

6. What Indian dishes should I try in Sri Lanka?
A: Try dosa, idli and vada if you enjoy South Indian food. For North Indian flavours, look for butter chicken, paneer dishes, tandoori chicken, naan and biryani. Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka also offer vegetarian thalis and regional Indian curries.

7. Are there Indian restaurants near popular tourist attractions in Sri Lanka?
A: Yes. Indian restaurants are available in popular tourist cities such as Colombo, Kandy and Nuwara Eliya. For example, Navratna is convenient for travellers exploring Colombo, while Grand Indian and Balaji Dosai are useful options when visiting Nuwara Eliya and Kandy.

8. Which Indian restaurants in Colombo are good for families?
A: Families can consider Indian Summer, Kandoori, Bombay Borough and Chola. These restaurants offer varied menus, making them useful when family members have different preferences. For a more casual and affordable meal, Thalis and Shanmugas are also good choices.

9. Can I find Jain food at Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka?
A: Yes, Jain-friendly options are available at some Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka. Nagalingam’s Bhavan in Kandy is particularly useful because it is listed as a pure-vegetarian Jain restaurant. However, always confirm ingredients and preparation methods with the restaurant before ordering.

10. Do Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka serve halal food?
A: Some Indian restaurants may offer halal meat or halal-friendly dishes, but this varies by restaurant. If halal food is important to you, ask the restaurant about its certification, meat sourcing and preparation before ordering.

11. Which Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka are good for breakfast?
A: Shanmugas and Thalis in Colombo are good breakfast options for South Indian favourites such as dosa, idli and vada. Balaji Dosai in Kandy is another convenient choice for an early meal, especially if you are planning a day of sightseeing.

12. Which cities in Sri Lanka have the most Indian restaurants?
A: Colombo has the largest variety of Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka, with options ranging from casual vegetarian eateries to premium hotel restaurants. Kandy and Nuwara Eliya also have good choices, particularly for travellers exploring Sri Lanka’s cultural and hill-country regions.

13. Can I find Indian restaurants in Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Galle?
A: Yes. Kandy has options such as Nagalingam’s Bhavan, Balaji Dosai and Chutneys at Cinnamon Citadel. In Nuwara Eliya, Grand Indian is a popular choice. Indian restaurants are also available in and around Galle and the southern coast, although the selection is smaller than in Colombo.

14. What are the best Indian restaurants in Sri Lanka for first-time visitors?
A: First-time visitors can start with Indian Summer or Thalis in Colombo, depending on whether they prefer North Indian or vegetarian food. Shanmugas is a good South Indian option, while Grand Indian is worth considering if Nuwara Eliya is part of your itinerary.