Laos is a tranquil Southeast Asian destination known for its slow pace, spiritual heritage, and stunning natural beauty. While Laotian food is central to the local experience, travelers from South Asia and lovers of Indian cuisine often seek the comfort of familiar flavors while exploring new territories. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or a spice enthusiast, finding Indian food near me is now more convenient than ever in Laos, thanks to a growing demand and thriving Indian culinary influence in major towns and cities.
This detailed guide explores the best hotels and restaurants across Laos where you can find authentic and satisfying Indian food—perfect for those seeking a home-style meal or a culinary break from local dishes.
Why Is Indian Food Popular in Laos?
Indian food has carved a niche for itself globally, including in Laos, for several reasons:
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Diverse vegetarian and non-vegetarian options
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Rich flavors that resonate with many cultures
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Growing South Asian expatriate and traveler community
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Rising popularity of Indian culture, including cuisine, yoga, and spirituality
In Laos, particularly in cities like Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Pakse, Indian restaurants are often located near tourist hubs, hotels, or popular sightseeing areas, making them easy to access for travelers.
Best Hotels with Indian Food in Laos
While most Indian food establishments are standalone restaurants, a few hotels either house Indian kitchens or offer select Indian dishes on their menus. Below are some of the top hotels offering access to Indian cuisine in Laos.
1. Amantaka – Luang Prabang
Amantaka is a luxury resort in Luang Prabang, situated in a former colonial hospital turned elegant hotel. Though primarily known for Lao and French-influenced dishes, Amantaka occasionally hosts Indian-themed nights. Guests can also request specially curated Indian meals, particularly if notified in advance.
Why It’s Recommended:
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Custom Indian meals available on request
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Upscale dining experience
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Peaceful, private setting with premium service
2. Vientiane Plaza Hotel – Vientiane
Vientiane Plaza Hotel is a business-friendly hotel in the capital city and offers a multi-cuisine restaurant that includes a few Indian dishes. The staff is accommodating, and if you’re staying for several days, they can often prepare customized Indian meals.
What to Expect:
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Comfortable rooms
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Centrally located, near Indian restaurants
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Breakfast buffet occasionally includes Indian items
3. Sabaidee@Lao Hotel – Vientiane
This 3-star hotel is favored for its cleanliness and service. While it does not have a dedicated Indian kitchen, it often features Indian cuisine on special request or during themed nights. It’s also located near several top-rated Indian restaurants.
Best Features:
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Central location
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Near the Mekong riverside and Indian food outlets
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Helpful staff that arranges Indian meals via nearby restaurants
4. Le Bel Air Resort – Luang Prabang
This elegant resort doesn’t serve full Indian meals in-house, but it works closely with local restaurants like Nisha Restaurant and M&M Restaurant to deliver Indian food to guests. Room service includes options from curated partner restaurants.
Perks:
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Collaboration with local Indian food providers
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Riverside views
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Comfortable and aesthetic accommodation
Top Indian Restaurants in Laos
When searching for “Indian food near me” in Laos, your best bet is to look for these top-rated Indian restaurants in major cities. These spots are trusted by locals and tourists alike and are known for their consistency and taste.
1. Delhi Durbar – Vientiane
Delhi Durbar is one of the most prominent Indian restaurants in Laos, known for its elegant decor and extensive menu. With dishes ranging from biryanis to curries and thalis, it caters to both vegetarian and meat-eating patrons.
Highlights:
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North and South Indian food
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Vegan and Jain-friendly options
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Excellent customer service and hygiene
2. Little India Restaurant – Vientiane
Located in the city center, Little India is known for quick service and flavorful meals. Prices are reasonable, and portions are generous. Their paneer tikka and butter chicken are among the most ordered dishes.
Why It’s Popular:
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Both spicy and mild food available
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Casual and family-friendly setting
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Highly rated by Indian tourists
3. Nisha Restaurant – Luang Prabang
Nisha Restaurant is a well-known Indian halal food outlet in Luang Prabang. With a cozy atmosphere and traditional recipes, it’s a go-to place for travelers looking for authentic Indian flavors.
Top Dishes:
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Mutton vindaloo
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Masala dosa
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Samosas and pakoras
4. M&M Indian Halal Restaurant – Luang Prabang
This budget-friendly restaurant serves North Indian food and specializes in vegetarian curries. It’s known for its homely ambiance and accommodating owners.
Menu Musts:
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Butter naan with chana masala
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Vegetable biryani
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Tea masala (Indian spiced tea)
5. Hasan Indian Restaurant – Pakse
Hasan’s is the top Indian restaurant in Pakse, a southern city in Laos. It offers both Sri Lankan and Indian dishes. The menu includes popular comfort foods like dal tadka, chapatis, and chicken curry.
Strengths:
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Vegetarian and non-veg selections
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Affordable pricing
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Close to several hotels and hostels
6. Yummy Restaurant – Pakse
Although a small, modest eatery, Yummy Restaurant serves an impressive variety of Indian and Sri Lankan meals. Dishes like dosa, vada, and rice curry combos are commonly praised.
Good For:
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Budget travelers
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Quick snacks and breakfast
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Authentic South Indian flavors
Indian Street Food and Quick Bites in Laos
In larger towns like Vientiane and Luang Prabang, Indian street food has started appearing in night markets and pop-up stalls. Common items include samosas, aloo tikki, and chaat. These are typically prepared by Indian expats or locals trained in Indian cooking.
Things to Try:
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Vegetable samosa (available for less than $1)
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Chole bhature at food fairs or events
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Indian-style fried rice at fusion stalls
Halal and Vegan Indian Food in Laos
If you’re seeking Indian food that is halal or vegan, many restaurants in Laos cater to specific dietary requirements.
Halal Options:
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Nisha Restaurant (Luang Prabang)
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Taj Mahal Halal Restaurant (Vientiane)
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Hasan Indian Restaurant (Pakse)
Vegan-Friendly:
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Welcome India (Vientiane) offers a vegan menu section
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M&M Restaurant (Luang Prabang) allows substitutions for dairy-based items
Always check with the staff regarding ingredients, especially if you have dietary restrictions.
How to Find Indian Food Near Me in Laos
Here are a few practical methods to locate Indian food easily:
Use Google Maps and Reviews:
Search “Indian food near me” and check ratings, photos, and menus in advance.
Ask Hotel Reception:
Hotel staff are often familiar with local dining options and can recommend trusted Indian restaurants.
Use Food Delivery Apps (in Vientiane):
Some food delivery platforms operating in Vientiane list Indian restaurants that deliver directly to hotels and hostels.
Explore on Foot:
In tourist zones like the Mekong riverside, you’ll often come across Indian restaurants just walking around.
Dining Tips for Indian Food Lovers in Laos
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Spice Level: Not all Laotians are used to spicy food, so some restaurants tone down their spice levels. Always ask for your preferred heat level.
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Tandoor Dishes: Most small restaurants do not have traditional tandoor ovens. Stick to curries and rice dishes for a more authentic experience.
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Payment: Cash is preferred, but major restaurants in Vientiane and Luang Prabang may accept cards or digital wallets.
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Opening Hours: Some restaurants close between lunch and dinner. Always check hours in advance to avoid disappointment.
A Sample Itinerary for Indian Food Lovers in Laos
Day 1 – Vientiane:
Lunch at Delhi Durbar, dinner at Little India. Overnight at Vientiane Plaza Hotel.
Day 2 – Vientiane:
Visit the night market, try samosas and tea. Late dinner at Royal Kitchen or order from Taj Mahal Restaurant.
Day 3 – Travel to Luang Prabang:
Stay at Le Bel Air or Amantaka. Dinner from Nisha Restaurant.
Day 4 – Luang Prabang Exploration:
Lunch at M&M Restaurant, try local Indian-style snacks, and enjoy the riverside views.
Day 5 – Travel to Pakse:
Stay near central Pakse and eat at Hasan Indian Restaurant and Yummy Restaurant.
Conclusion
Finding Indian food near me in Laos is not only possible—it’s pleasantly easy in major cities. Whether you’re staying in luxury resorts or budget hotels, or even passing through small towns, you’ll find Indian restaurants that cater to your palate and dietary needs. From spicy curries to comforting dals and fragrant biryanis, Indian cuisine in Laos has truly found its place.
This guide has covered the best hotels and restaurants offering Indian food, practical dining tips, and how to explore Laos without missing the flavors of home. So, the next time you’re in Laos and craving some paneer butter masala or a crispy dosa, rest assured—you won’t have to search far.
