AAHAR 2026 New Delhi – Date, Venue and Visitor Guide

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Event At-A-Glance: AAHAR 2026

Your Ultimate Companion to India’s Premier Food & Hospitality Expo Presented by India Holidays

DetailInformation
DatesMarch 10 – 14, 2026 (Tuesday to Saturday)
VenueBharat Mandapam (Pragati Maidan), New Delhi
Timings10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Business Hours)
OrganizersITPO (India Trade Promotion Organisation) & MoFPI
Entry GatesGate 3 & 4 (Bhairon Road), Gate 6 & 10 (Mathura Road)
Expected Footfall100,000+ Visitors
Exhibitors1,700+ (Domestic & International)
Dates, Venue & Visitor Guide

AAHAR 2026 New Delhi

Your Ultimate Companion to India’s Premier Food & Hospitality Expo
Presented by India Holidays

AAHAR 2026 New Delhi is one of the most anticipated events on India’s food, beverage, and hospitality calendar. As the 40th edition of the International Food & Hospitality Fair, AAHAR has grown into a global platform that attracts thousands of visitors, exhibitors, and food professionals from across India and the world. Organized by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) and the India Trade Promotion Organization (ITPO), this fair brings together industry innovators, buyers, producers, and curious food lovers for an unforgettable experience in the heart of India’s capital.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from event dates and the venue to tips for visitors and highlights you shouldn’t miss.

The 40th edition of AAHAR

Why AAHAR Matters:

More Than Just an Expo

AAHAR isn’t just another trade show—it’s a dynamic platform where tradition meets innovation. From heritage spices of Kerala to AI-driven kitchen automation from Germany, AAHAR 2026 bridges continents through cuisine. It serves multiple critical functions:

  1. Market Access: For international brands, AAHAR is a gateway to India’s $500+ billion food and beverage market.
  2. Networking Hub: Connect with suppliers, distributors, chefs, and policymakers.
  3. Trend Forecasting: Discover emerging food tech, sustainable packaging, plant-based proteins, and fusion gastronomy.
  4. Culinary Showcase: Live cooking demos by Michelin-starred chefs and regional culinary masters.
  5. Policy Dialogue: Government-led sessions on food safety, FSSAI regulations, and export opportunities.

For travelers and food tourists, AAHAR offers a rare chance to sample global flavors without leaving Delhi—making it a must-visit cultural event during your India itinerary.

Event Overview:

Celebrating Four Decades of Culinary Excellence

AAHAR stands as a testament to India's emergence as a global food powerhouse. The 40th edition marks a significant milestone in the fair's illustrious history, cementing its position as one of Asia's oldest and most respected food and hospitality exhibitions. Jointly organized by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries and the India Trade Promotion Organisation, this flagship business-to-business event has evolved from its humble beginnings into a sprawling international showcase that attracts over one hundred thousand visitors annually.

Event Overview

Venue Spotlight

Pragati Maidan, New Delhi
Pragati Maidan

Pragati Maidan—redeveloped into a world-class integrated exhibition-cum-convention center—is India’s largest exhibition complex. Strategically located near Purana Qila and India Gate, it’s easily accessible via metro (Supreme Court or Pragati Maidan stations), taxi, or private vehicle.

Key Features of the Venue:

  • Air-conditioned halls spanning over 120,000 sqm
  • Dedicated zones: Food Processing, Bakery & Confectionery, Organic & Health Foods, Hospitality Equipment, and Country Pavilions
  • On-site cafeterias, prayer rooms, medical booths, and luggage storage
  • Free Wi-Fi and digital wayfinding kiosks

Pro Tip: Use the AAHAR 2026 mobile app (available on iOS/Android) for real-time maps, exhibitor lists, and session schedules.

What to Expect at AAHAR 2026

AAHAR 2026

1. Global Pavilion Highlights

Expect strong participation from Italy (artisanal pasta & olive oil), Thailand (street food revival), Turkey (baklava & dried fruits), and the UAE (halal gourmet innovations). Country-specific stalls often offer free tastings—a great way to “travel the world on a plate.”

2. Indian Regional Flavors

Each Indian state presents its culinary identity:

  • Kerala: Coconut-based curries and banana chips
  • Punjab: Tandoori specialties and dairy innovations
  • Gujarat: Ready-to-eat dhokla and theplas
  • Northeast: Bamboo shoot pickles and smoked meats

Look out for the “Taste of India” zone curated by the Ministry of Tourism.

Live Demonstrations & Chef’s Arena

3. Live Demonstrations & Chef’s Arena

Top chefs—including Vikas Khanna, Ranveer Brar, and international guests—will conduct live sessions on:

  • Zero-waste cooking
  • Molecular gastronomy
  • Heritage recipe revival
  • Fusion street food

Sessions are ticketed but included with trade registration.

4. Innovation & Technology Zone

Discover:

  • Smart kitchen appliances
  • Blockchain traceability in food supply chains
  • Edible packaging solutions
  • Cloud kitchens and delivery tech

Startups from IITs and IIITs will demo AI-driven nutrition apps and farm-to-fork platforms.

5. Sustainability Focus

Aligned with India’s LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) mission, AAHAR 2026 emphasizes:

  • Plastic-free packaging
  • Organic certification drives
  • Water conservation in food processing
  • Upcycled food products (e.g., banana peel flour)

Visitor Guide:

How to Make the Most of Your Visit

Step 1: Pre-Register Online

Visit www.aahar.in to register as a trade visitor. You’ll receive a QR-coded e-badge—skip long queues!

Step 2: Plan Your Route

Download the floor plan in advance. Prioritize halls based on your interests:

  • Hall 1: International Exhibitors
  • Hall 2: Indian Food Processors
  • Hall 3: Bakery, Dairy & Beverages
  • Hall 4: Hospitality Equipment & Services
 

Step 3: Attend Seminars & Workshops

Don’t miss:

  • “Future of Plant-Based Diets in India” (March 13)
  • “Exporting Indian Spices: Compliance & Opportunities” (March 14)
  • “Digital Transformation in QSRs” (March 15)

All sessions are free with badge access.

Step 4: Network Strategically

Carry business cards. Many exhibitors offer exclusive post-show discounts to registered visitors.

Step 5: Explore the Gourmet Bazaar

Open to the public on weekends (March 15–16), this section features ready-to-eat delicacies, artisanal chocolates, craft beers, and organic snacks—perfect for foodie souvenirs.

Travel & Stay Tips for Out-of-Station Visitors

Planning a trip to AAHAR 2026? India Holidays recommends:

Best Areas to Stay:

  • Connaught Place: Central, well-connected (₹4,000–₹12,000/night)
  • Noida/Greater Kailash: Upscale options near metro (₹5,000–₹15,000/night)
  • Near Pragati Maidan: Budget hotels like Hotel Ashoka (₹2,500–₹4,500/night)
Where to stay in New Delhi

Transportation:

  • From Airport: Take Metro Airport Express Line to New Delhi Station, then transfer to Blue Line (towards Noida) → Supreme Court Station (10-min walk).
  • Local Commute: Use Uber/Ola or Delhi Metro (affordable and efficient).

Combine with Tourism:

Extend your stay to explore:

  • Lotus Temple & Akshardham (spiritual architecture)
  • Chandni Chowk (historic food street)
  • Dilli Haat (handicrafts & regional cuisine)

India Holidays offers curated “AAHAR + Delhi Heritage” packages—contact us for custom itineraries!

Inclusions & Exclusions (For Trade Visitors)

Included with Registration:

  • Free entry for all 5 days
  • Access to seminars and chef demos
  • Digital exhibitor directory
  • Networking lounges
  • Complimentary refreshments in VIP zones
 

Not Included:

  • Hotel accommodation
  • Airport transfers
  • Meals outside designated zones
  • Souvenir purchases
  • Everything You Need to Know

  • Is AAHAR 2026 open to the general public?

    Yes—but only on March 15–16 (weekend). Weekdays (March 12–14) are reserved for trade professionals.

  • Is there an entry fee?

    No. Entry is free for all registered visitors.

  • Can I bring children?

    Not recommended on weekdays due to crowded, business-focused environments. Weekend visits are family-friendly.

  • Are food samples free?

    Most exhibitors offer complimentary tastings, especially in international and gourmet zones.

  • Is parking available?

    Yes—paid parking at Gate No. 2 and 7. Two-wheelers park free.

  • Can I buy products at the expo?

    Many exhibitors sell retail packs, especially in the Gourmet Bazaar (weekends). Bulk orders require post-event follow-up.

  • Are there vegetarian/vegan options?

    Absolutely! India’s strong vegetarian culture ensures abundant plant-based offerings. Look for FSSAI-certified vegan labels.