India’s culinary diversity isn’t just limited to food—it extends gloriously into the realm of beverages. While lassi, nimbu pani, and coconut water might already be your summer staples, there’s a treasure trove of lesser-known regional drinks across the country that not only beat the heat but also offer a burst of flavour and tradition in every sip.
From the snowy peaks of the Northeast to the sun-drenched coastlines of the South, here are 8 lesser-known Indian drinks that are cooling, hydrating, and absolutely mouth-watering:
Cooling, Fermented, and Rich in Culture
Made from fermented barley or millet, Chhang is a traditional drink of the Himalayan regions, especially Sikkim, Ladakh, and Arunachal Pradesh. Often served in bamboo tumblers, it’s a mildly alcoholic, probiotic-rich beverage consumed chilled during summer festivals. It hydrates the body while aiding digestion—ideal for high altitudes and humid plains alike.
Tart, Sweet, and Heat-Resistant
Though better known than most on this list, Aam Panna still varies vastly by region. In rural Maharashtra, it’s prepared with charred raw mango pulp, jaggery, mint, and black salt—a powerful potion to battle dehydration and heatstroke. Its tangy taste is addictive and refreshing, especially after long sun exposure.
The Ultimate Summer Cooler from Madurai
Translating to “cool heart” in Tamil, Jigarthanda is a decadent, milk-based summer drink with badam pisin (almond gum), sarsaparilla syrup, milk, and ice cream. Popular in Madurai, this creamy delight not only refreshes the body but also nourishes and energizes it.
Tangy, Spiced Coconut Elixir
Solkadhi is a soothing drink made from kokum (a local fruit) and coconut milk, often consumed after meals for its digestive properties. Its natural pink hue and tangy-spicy profile make it a unique thirst-quencher that’s cooling and gut-friendly.
A Sweet-Sacred Sip with Spiritual Roots
Traditionally prepared during Ram Navami, Panakam is a South Indian drink made with jaggery, dry ginger, cardamom, lemon juice, and black pepper. This spiced drink cools the body, boosts immunity, and balances internal heat, making it a holy grail for summer wellness.
Nature’s Hydrator from the Wood Apple
Made from the pulp of the bael fruit (wood apple), this thick, sweet drink is full of fibre, antioxidants, and essential nutrients. It’s excellent for the digestive system and known to prevent heatstroke. Despite its powerful benefits, it’s often overlooked outside rural North India.
A Farmer’s Drink Turned Wellness Trend
Originally a staple for farmers, Ragi Ambli is made from finger millet flour, buttermilk, curry leaves, and cumin seeds. It’s slightly savoury, probiotic-rich, and packed with iron and calcium. Served cold, it cools the body and keeps energy levels high throughout the day.
Temple-Approved and Soul-Soothing
Served in temples and homes during summer, Tanka Torani is made from fermented rice water, curd, ginger, cumin, and curry leaves. It’s extremely cooling and rehydrating, and has been consumed for centuries in Odisha to replenish the body after heat exhaustion or fasting.
These drinks aren’t just beverages—they’re a living record of India’s culinary wisdom and environmental adaptation. Made from local ingredients, time-tested combinations, and seasonal produce, they nourish, heal, and refresh in ways modern soft drinks simply can’t.
So this summer, go beyond the usual and explore these authentic, regional thirst-quenchers. You’ll not only stay cool and hydrated but also taste the essence of India—one sip at a time.
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