Finding Vegetarian & Jain Food in Meghalaya – Our Monsoon Weekend in Sohra

Last weekend, we spontaneously packed our bags and headed for Sohra (Cherrapunji). Even though we’ve been there countless times, every single visit feels like discovering its magic all over again. Meghalaya during monsoon? It’s simply breathtaking. The clouds hang low, embracing the green hills, waterfalls plunge dramatically from every cliff, and that fresh, rain-soaked earth smell just fills your lungs and calms your soul.

This time, though, we decided on a little adventure within our adventure: to consciously explore the vegetarian food options in Meghalaya. As non-vegetarians, we weren’t sure what to expect – Meghalaya’s local cuisine is known for its meat dishes – but we were wonderfully surprised! We found some truly amazing spots that will delight not just vegetarians, but also those specifically looking for Jain food in Meghalaya.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Meghalaya and wondering where to find delicious, worry-free vegetarian and Jain meals, this guide is for you. Here’s a rundown of everything we tried and loved on our rainy weekend escape from Guwahati to Sohra.

🌿 1. Jiva Veg – Nongpoh: The Perfect Early Bird Breakfast

If you’re hitting the road from Guwahati towards Shillong early in the morning, Jiva Veg in Nongpoh is an absolute must-stop. This pure vegetarian restaurant opens by 8 AM (though we got there a little earlier as they were setting up), and it’s always clean, peaceful, and offers quick, comforting service – exactly what you need to kickstart your day.

We dove straight into the classic idli-sambar combo, and honestly, it was even better than we remembered. The idlis were incredibly soft, and the sambar tasted like a warm hug. Their menu is extensive, from South Indian staples to North Indian classics. Even their Veg Biryani totally surprised me; as a regular non-veg eater, I didn’t expect to be so impressed! And you absolutely cannot leave without trying their hot gulab jamun paired with ice cream – it’s a combo you’ll dream about.

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Must-try: Idli-Sambar, Puri Sabzi, Veg Biryani, Butter Naan
• Good for: Families, couples, and anyone on a road trip needing a reliable, pure-veg start.

🍛 2. Cloud Country – Sohra: Cozy & “Bombastic”

Cloud Country is a charming, pure-veg spot tucked just off the main highway in Sohra. We loved its aesthetic bamboo decor and the cozy, homely feel – truly perfect after a long drive through the winding hills.

For lunch, we went for the veg thali, and it was absolutely delicious and great value! Their paneer dishes were also superb. The only minor miss for us was the Malaysian noodles, which were just average. But seriously, the highlight was when the bill arrived inside a toy hand grenade! We burst out laughing – it was totally unexpected and hilariously “bombastic”!

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Must-try: Veg Thali, Paneer items
• Unique Quirk: The unforgettable “explosive” bill presentation!

🥘 3. Orange Roots – Sohra: Your Go-To for Hearty & Jain-Friendly Meals

You really can’t miss Orange Roots – it’s practically a landmark in Sohra, sitting right next to the giant “I ❤️ SOHRA” sign. Plus, it has ample parking, which is always a blessing. You’ll be warmly welcomed by friendly Khasi women at the entrance, setting the tone for a pleasant dining experience.

This is another fantastic pure vegetarian restaurant, offering a great selection of both North and South Indian dishes. We absolutely devoured their Rajma Chawal, Tomato Rice, and Masala Dosa. The food here is consistently flavorful and incredibly satisfying – just what you need after exploring. And here’s some amazing news for those with specific dietary needs: we were delighted to find they also serve delicious Jain food, prepared with care! This makes Orange Roots a true gem for finding Jain food in Meghalaya. Don’t forget to check out their small souvenir shop next door too!

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 7:30 PM
• Must-try: Rajma Chawal, Paneer Masala, Masala Dosa, and their reliable Jain food options.
• Best for: Easy-to-locate stop with hearty meals for families, and a top choice for Jain-friendly dining.

🍽️ 4. Green Leaf – Sohra-Shella Road: A Touch of Upscale Comfort

Green Leaf is a relatively new player in Sohra’s vegetarian scene, and it’s beautifully designed. The warm lighting and elegant interiors create a cozy yet slightly upscale ambiance, elevating the dining experience.

We made a quick stop here on our way to Seven Sisters Falls and were so glad we did. Their Butter Naan and Paneer Masala were absolutely perfect – comforting, flavorful, and not overly oily. Definitely worth a visit if your adventure takes you along that route.

• Timings: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Must-try: Butter Naan, Paneer Masala
• Good for: Couples, families, or anyone looking for a peaceful meal in a stylish setting.

Finding Vegetarian & Jain Food in Meghalaya

🍢 5. Jiva Grill – Part of Jiva Resort, Sohra: Serene Views & Veggie Delights

If you’re staying at Jiva Resort, you’re in for a treat. Jiva Grill, located within the property, offers a peaceful retreat with truly scenic views and plenty of space for kids to play and stretch their legs. While their menu is mixed, we found their vegetarian options to be plentiful and absolutely delicious.

• What makes it special: Great ambiance, kid-friendly, and fantastic views to enjoy your meal.
• Tip: Even if you typically prefer non-veg, give their vegetarian offerings a serious try – you might be pleasantly surprised! Plus, if you have specific dietary requests, like for Jain food, it’s always worth speaking to the staff here; many resorts are accommodating.

🏨 6. Polo Orchid – Sohra: Premium Dining with Panoramic Views

Polo Orchid is easily one of the most premium resorts in Sohra, boasting stunning poolside views and top-notch hospitality. We had a mostly pleasant experience there, despite a minor hiccup with a new staff member at the restaurant.

That being said, their vegetarian spread is wide, diverse, and always beautifully prepared. If you’re looking for a special meal, perhaps a sunset dinner with panoramic views and a touch of luxury, Polo Orchid definitely ticks all the boxes. Their team is generally very accommodating if you discuss your dietary needs, including Jain preferences, beforehand.

• Highlight: Poolside dining with breathtaking panoramic views.
• Vegetarian dishes: Abundant and beautifully presented.
• Jain-friendly? Yes, but for the best experience, it’s always wise to call ahead or speak directly to the chef about your specific requirements.

🌱 Final Thoughts: Meghalaya – A Delicious Adventure for All Diets

Exploring Meghalaya as a vegetarian or Jain traveler is not only completely possible – it’s a delightfully rewarding part of the adventure! From traditional thalis to familiar North and South Indian favorites, these spots offer comforting and flavorful meals, often with a unique local charm.

Whether you’re a lifelong vegetarian, diligently follow a Jain diet, or simply decided to switch things up like we did, there’s a fantastic culinary journey waiting for you on the road to Sohra.

Happy travels and happy feasting! Have you discovered any other hidden vegetarian or Jain-friendly gems in Meghalaya? Share your finds in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you!

Also Read: Monsoon Meghalaya Guide 2025

or Complete Monsoon Meghalaya Guide

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