Traveling as a vegan or vegetarian often means scanning menus for the elusive 'V' symbol or piecing together a meal from sides. And if you've tried traveling while sticking to plant-based eating habits, you know it can be challenging at times.  

While the world is finally catching up, more and more travel companies are offering vegan tours or vegetarian-friendly vacations. 

Whether you're a seasoned plant-eater or simply plant-curious, you'll be thrilled to know that you're warmly welcomed and taken care of on any of our tours — but to make life easier, we've sifted through our offerings to highlight 13 select tours across 5 destinations in Asia that are particularly vegan and vegetarian-friendly. 

Think of these recommended tours as your all-access pass to some of Asia's most incredible flavors, without the usual guesswork. Whether you're deeply committed to a plant-based diet or just dipping your toes into the world of meat-free meals, you'll appreciate the consideration that’s gone into these selections. These tours don't isolate you from your fellow travelers — they're shared experiences with the added comfort of knowing your dietary preferences have been thought of. 

So, prepare to embark on a journey that respects your lifestyle choices without compromising on cultural immersion or the joy of trying new foods. 

Thailand 

Thailand's culinary repertoire is a paradise for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet. With an emphasis on fresh herbs, spices, and a bountiful array of produce, Thai cuisine offers much more than just tofu and tempeh — though these protein-rich staples are certainly enjoyed in many creative forms. Dishes are often infused with flavors of lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and an assortment of chilies that really make the tastes pop. 

Thai food is known for its flexibility and can often be customized to suit vegetarian preferences. 

In fact, Thailand is so welcoming to plant-based eaters that they have a vegetarian festival (Tesagan Gin Je) every year where locals and visitors alike indulge in an abundance of meat-free fare that doesn't compromise on taste or authenticity. 

Here's a closer look at some of the vegetarian and vegan delights the country has to offer. 

Vegetarian- and Vegan-Friendly Dishes in Thailand 

While there are quite a few, here's some that you absolutely must try: 

Mains

• Pad Thai: A classic Thai noodle dish that can easily be made vegetarian by excluding fish sauce and shrimp, served with eggs, tofu, bean sprouts, peanuts, and lime on the side. 
• Green Curry with Tofu: A fragrant and creamy curry, typically made with coconut milk, green curry paste, tofu, and a variety of vegetables like eggplant and bell peppers. 
• Tom Yum Soup (Mushroom Version): A hot and sour soup typically prepared with mushrooms instead of shrimp, flavored with lemongrass, galangal, lime leaves, and chili. 
• Massaman Curry: A rich, slightly sweet curry made with potatoes, onions, and tofu, seasoned with tamarind and coconut milk, and served without the fish sauce traditionally included. 

Snacks

• Spring Rolls: Fresh or fried, these rolls are stuffed with shredded vegetables, glass noodles, and sometimes tofu, served with a sweet chili dipping sauce. 
• Mango Sticky Rice: A beloved dessert made with glutinous rice, ripe mango slices, and a drizzle of sweet coconut milk. 
• Papaya Salad (Som Tam): A spicy and tangy salad made from shredded green papaya, tomatoes, green beans, and peanuts, prepared without fish sauce or shrimp paste. 
• Fried Tofu with Peanut Sauce: Bite-sized pieces of tofu fried until golden and served with a savory peanut dipping sauce. 

Drinks

• Thai Iced Tea: A refreshing beverage made from strongly brewed tea, sweetened with sugar and condensed milk, then topped with evaporated milk. 
• Coconut Water: Freshly harvested directly from the coconut, this drink is a natural electrolyte-rich thirst quencher. 
• Lemongrass Tea: A fragrant herbal tea made from lemongrass, known for its calming properties and served both hot and cold. 
• Fruit Smoothies: A variety of fruit smoothies made with local tropical fruits such as mango, pineapple, and banana, blended with ice or coconut water for a refreshing treat. 

Top Bike Tours for Vegans and Vegetarians in Thailand 

• Cycle Bangkok to Phuket 
• Chiang Mai and North Thailand eBike Tour 
• Thailand Self-guided Cycle Tour 
• Slow Road to Angkor 

Vietnam 

Vietnam is a haven for vegetarians and vegans, with its cuisine featuring an abundance of fresh herbs, invigorating spices, and a variety of produce. 

Dishes are often highlighted with ingredients like lemongrass, ginger, mint, Vietnamese basil, and bird's eye chilies that bring complex layers of flavor. 

The adaptability of Vietnamese food also means that many traditional dishes can be tailored to fit a vegetarian or vegan diet. 

Vegetarian- and Vegan-Friendly Dishes in Vietnam 

Let's dive into some of the vegetarian and vegan delicacies that Vietnam has to offer: 

Mains

• Pho Chay: A vegetarian version of the iconic noodle soup, usually served with a flavorful broth, rice noodles, tofu, mushrooms, and a variety of fresh herbs. 
• Banh Mi Chay: A vegetarian take on the classic Vietnamese sandwich, filled with seasoned tofu, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and spicy sauce, all in a crusty baguette. 
• Bun Cha Chay: Grilled tofu and mushrooms served over rice vermicelli noodles with heaps of greens and a tangy dipping sauce. 
• Curried Vegetables (Ca Ri Chay): A Vietnamese curry with tofu, sweet potatoes, carrots, and other veggies in a coconut milk-based sauce. 

Snacks 

• Goi Cuon Chay: Fresh spring rolls packed with greens, herbs, rice vermicelli, and tofu, wrapped in rice paper and served with peanut sauce. 
• Banh Xeo Chay: Crispy vegetarian rice pancakes folded over a filling of bean sprouts, mushrooms, and onions, usually accompanied by a tangy dipping sauce. 
• Che: A traditional Vietnamese dessert, which is a sweet soup or pudding that comes in many varieties and can be made with beans, tapioca pearls, and fruit, all in a sweet coconut milk base. 

Drinks

• Nuoc Mia: Fresh sugarcane juice, often served with a squeeze of lime - a refreshing and energizing drink. 
• Tra Da: Iced tea, a ubiquitous and refreshing drink, served plain or with a hint of jasmine or lotus. 
• Fruit Smoothies (Sinh To): Blended frozen fruit smoothies that can include tropical treats like dragon fruit, mango, and lychee, made without dairy upon request. 

Top Bike Tours for Vegans and Vegetarians in Vietnam 

• Vietnam Bike, Trek, & Paddle 
• Vietnam Essentials Bike Tour 
• Vietnam Self-guided Ocean Road Bike Tour 

Sri Lanka 

Sri Lanka, with its tropical climate and rich cultural tapestry, offers an abundance of vegetarian and vegan options that are deeply rooted in the local culinary traditions. Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its bold flavors, with a heavy emphasis on spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and curry leaves, fruits like coconut and jackfruit, and an array of legumes and grains. 

The island's predominantly Buddhist culture promotes a compassionate way of living, encouraging meatless diets, which is reflected in the myriad of plant-based dishes available. Additionally, Sri Lankan Hindu and Jain communities also practice vegetarianism, further enhancing the vegetarian culture within the country. 

Vegetarian- and Vegan-Friendly Dishes in Sri Lanka 

Sri Lanka's unique vegetarian and vegan dishes are not merely side dishes but star attractions unto themselves. Here's what to look forward to: 

Mains 

• Kottu Roti: A local favorite consisting of chopped flatbread mixed with vegetables and spices, creating a delectable and filling meal. 
• Dhal Curry: Lentils cooked to perfection in a creamy curry sauce, flavored with coconut milk and aromatic spices. 
• Pol Roti: Coconut flatbread that's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, commonly served with spicy sambol or curry. 
• Jackfruit Curry: Young jackfruit cooked in a tangy and spicy curry sauce, offering a meaty texture that's loved by vegetarians, vegans, and well everyone really. 
• Coconut Sambol: A fiery mix of grated coconut, red onions, chili powder, Maldive fish (which can be omitted), lime juice, and salt. 

Snacks 

• Samosas: Triangular pastries filled with spiced potatoes, onions, and peas, deep-fried to a golden crispiness. 
• Vada: Savory fried snacks made from legumes like lentils or chickpeas, infused with herbs and spices, and often served with chutney. 
• Hoppers: Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour, with crispy edges and a soft, spongy center, often enjoyed with sambol or curry. 

Desserts 

• Kiri Peni: A sweet treat made with curd (yoghurt) and treacle, combining the creaminess of the curd with the sweetness of the syrup. 
• Watalappan: A rich pudding made of coconut milk, jaggery, cashew nuts, and a mix of spices, which can be adapted to a vegan diet by using agar-agar instead of eggs. 

Drinks 

• King Coconut Water: A refreshing natural drink, enjoyed straight from the coconut, full of electrolytes and nutrients. 
• Ceylon Tea: Renowned around the world, Sri Lankan tea can be enjoyed black or with a splash of plant-based milk. 
• Wood Apple Juice: A unique and refreshing drink made from the pulp of the wood apple—a hard-shelled fruit with a tangy flavor—blended with sugar and water. It's a popular beverage in
• Sri Lanka, especially valued for its digestive benefits. The taste is an acquired one, with a complex flavor profile that combines tart, sweet, and earthy notes. 

Top Bike Tours for Vegans and Vegetarians in Sri Lanka 

• Sri Lanka Bike, Hike, and Kayak 
• Sri Lanka by Bike

Bali, Indonesia 

Bali stands out as a premier destination for vegans and vegetarians, thanks to its abundant natural produce and a culinary tradition that leans heavily on plant-based ingredients.  

In Bali, the local diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, and grains, integral components of traditional dishes that can be easily adapted or are already suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets.  

This embrace of vegetarianism is partly rooted in the island's Hindu culture, which promotes ahimsa (non-violence) and as a result, encourages plant-based eating.  

Besides, Bali's dining scene includes a plethora of vegetarian and vegan restaurants, from high-end eateries to local warungs, ensuring that plant-based diners have a wealth of options. The island's commitment to sustainability and health-conscious living attracts chefs and food entrepreneurs from around the world, adding international flair to a strong foundation of vegetarian-friendly cuisine. 

Vegetarian- and Vegan-Friendly Dishes in Bali 

Here's a list of must-try foods and drinks that cater to plant-based diets. 

Mains 

• Gado-Gado: A traditional Indonesian salad made with steamed vegetables, hard-boiled eggs (which can be omitted for vegans), tofu, tempeh, and a delicious peanut sauce dressing. 
• Nasi Campur: A Balinese staple that typically includes a scoop of rice accompanied by small portions of a variety of dishes, including vegetables, tempeh, and tofu. Ensure to specify you'd like the vegan/vegetarian version, as it can be customized. 
• Mie Goreng: Stir-fried noodles with vegetables, often served with tempeh or tofu as the protein. A flavorful dish seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, shallots, and chili, suitable for vegetarians and easily adapted for vegans. 
• Sayur Urab: A refreshing Balinese salad made with mixed green vegetables, coconut, and lime dressing, often accompanied by a side of rice. 
• Tempeh Manis: Sweet and spicy fried tempeh that's caramelized with Indonesian sweet soy sauce, chili, and spices, offering a rich and satisfying taste. 

Snacks 

• Pisang Goreng: Deep-fried bananas with a crispy batter. A popular snack that’s naturally vegan, often enjoyed with a sprinkle of sugar or a drizzle of syrup. 
• Lumpia: Indonesian spring rolls filled with vegetables, and sometimes glass noodles, served with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce. 
• Sate Tempeh: Skewered and grilled tempeh served with spicy sambal or a peanut sauce for dipping. 
• Sweet Potato Chips: This one needs no explanation and is certainly a favourite among many!  
• Klepon: Traditional Indonesian rice cake balls filled with palm sugar and coated in grated coconut. Ensure to check they're made without dairy to meet vegan standards. 

Drinks 

• Jamu: A traditional Balinese herbal drink made from turmeric, ginger, tamarind, and honey (vegans can opt for a version without honey). It's known for its health benefits and refreshing taste. 
• Coconut Water 
• Bali Coffee: Locally grown and harvested, Bali coffee can be enjoyed black or as a "Kopi Susu" for vegetarians, using dairy or a plant-based milk alternative for vegans. 
• Es Daluman: A cooling green jelly drink made from cincau leaves and served with coconut milk and palm sugar syrup. 
• Loloh Cemcem: A traditional Balinese drink made with leaves of the cemcem plant, mixed with tamarind, palm sugar, and sometimes lime. 

Top Bike Tours for Vegans and Vegetarians in Bali 

• Best of Bali eBike Tour 

Taiwan 

Taiwan is a paradise for vegan and vegetarian food lovers, thanks to its rich mix of cultural influences and its embrace of modern dietary trends. Remarkably, about 13% of its population follows a vegetarian diet, making Taiwan one of the world leaders in vegetarianism. This widespread preference is supported by a mix of government initiatives and the compassionate principles of Buddhism and Taoism, which are prevalent in Taiwanese culture. 
  
Whether you’re sampling the famous stinky tofu at a bustling night market or enjoying a gourmet vegetarian meal in a chic restaurant, the variety on offer in Taiwan is both exciting and delicious. With its warm embrace of plant-based diets, Taiwan is not just a foodie's haven but also an example of culinary inclusivity. 

Vegetarian- and Vegan-Friendly Dishes in Taiwan 

While there are too many to list, here’s the must-tries: 

Mains 

• Vegetarian Hot Pot: A cozy, communal eating experience with a variety of veggies, tofu, and mock meats simmered in a flavorful broth. 
• Buddha's Delight: A traditional dish filled with an assortment of vegetables, tofu, and sometimes faux meats, symbolizing purity and compassion in Buddhist culture. 
• Stir-fried Noodles with Vegetables: A simple yet delicious meal featuring noodles tossed with fresh veggies and sometimes topped with tofu or tempeh for extra protein. 
• Mapo Tofu: Although traditionally made with pork, the vegetarian version uses minced mushrooms or soy protein, all coated in a spicy, bean-based sauce. 
• Vegetable and Tofu Curry: Influenced by Japanese-style curry, this dish is hearty, packed with chunks of soft tofu and a variety of vegetables. 

Snacks 

• Gua Bao with Mushrooms: A twist on the classic Gua Bao, featuring juicy, marinated mushrooms instead of pork, stuffed into a fluffy steamed bun. 
• Vegetarian Spring Rolls: Crispy on the outside and bursting with vegetables on the inside, these are perfect for a light bite. 
• Tofu Pudding: A silky-smooth dessert made from soft tofu, usually served with a sweet ginger or almond syrup. 
• Scallion Pancakes: A must-try street food, these are flaky, crispy, and utterly delicious, especially when served hot from the pan. 
• Sweet Potato Balls: Crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, these make for a delightful snack or dessert. 

Drinks 

• Bubble Tea: Taiwan's signature drink, available in numerous vegan-friendly versions made with plant-based milks. 
• Herbal Tea: A vast array of herbal teas can be found in Taiwan, each with its own health benefits, from soothing digestion to boosting energy. 
• Fresh Fruit Smoothies: With an abundance of tropical fruits, smoothies are a refreshing treat, customizable with your choice of plant-based milk or yogurt. 

Top Bike Tours for Vegans and Vegetarians in Taiwan 

• Bike Taiwan 
• Taiwan Bike, Walk, and Dumplings 
• East Taiwan Self-guided Cycle Tour 

That's a Wrap! 

Gone are the days of piecing together unexciting meals; with these vegan- and vegetarian-friendly tours across Thailand, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka, you're not just 'getting by'—you're indulging in some of the most appetizing and authentic plant-based cuisines that Asia has to offer. 
So, grab your bike and let the open road guide you to a feast of simple joys and genuine connections.