Traditional Summer Drinks of 28 Indian States: Best Regional Beverages to Stay Cool and Hydrated

When the Indian summer turns fierce, the best way to beat the heat is the traditional way. Across India’s 28 states, age-old recipes crafted from seasonal ingredients serve as natural coolants. From tangy raw mango blends to probiotic-rich fermented drinks, each region has a signature summer beverage that not only refreshes but also heals and energises. Let’s explore these iconic drinks and discover how India stays cool, one sip at a time.

1. Andhra Pradesh – Panakam

A sweet-spicy drink made with jaggery, dry ginger, cardamom, and lemon juice. Panakam soothes the body and supports digestion.

2. Arunachal Pradesh – Apong

A fermented rice beer savoured during festivals. Apong is rich in probiotics and great for gut health.

3. Assam – Jolpan with Doi

A light rice drink mixed with curd and jaggery. Hydrating and probiotic, perfect for hot days.

4. Bihar – Sattu Sharbat

This protein-packed drink made from roasted gram flour, lemon juice, and spices keeps the body cool and energised.

5. Chhattisgarh – Mahua Sharbat

Prepared with soaked Mahua flowers and jaggery, this natural cooler also acts as a detox.

6. Goa – Kokum Sherbet

A tangy refresher made with kokum pulp, cumin, and black salt. Fights dehydration and prevents heatstroke.

7. Gujarat – Chhaas

This spiced buttermilk is a staple in every household, known to aid digestion and reduce bloating.

8. Haryana – Lassi

Whether sweet or salty, this thick curd-based drink cools the system and nourishes the body with probiotics.

9. Himachal Pradesh – Chukh Lemonade

Made with a spiced lemon preserve, this tangy drink boosts immunity and banishes fatigue.

10. Jharkhand – Handia, Bel Sharbat, Sattu Sharbat

Handia, a fermented rice drink, along with Bel and Sattu sharbat, help cool the body and improve gut strength.

11. Karnataka – Majjige

This spiced buttermilk flavoured with ginger and curry leaves hydrates and supports digestion.

12. Kerala – Sambaram & Coconut Water

Tender coconut water hydrates naturally, while Sambaram—spiced buttermilk—cools and improves gut health.

13. Madhya Pradesh – Aam Panna, Bel Sharbat, Jaljeera

Bel Sharbat and Aam Panna are summer must-haves that aid digestion and provide instant energy.

14. Maharashtra – Aam Panna, Solkadhi

Solkadhi, made from kokum and coconut milk, and Aam Panna are perfect to beat the heat and support gut flora.

15. Manipur – Apong & Tamarind Water

Fermented rice beer and tamarind-based drinks offer antioxidants and relief from the humid heat.

16. Meghalaya – Kyat

This rice-based fermented drink is a cooling probiotic rich in antioxidants.

17. Mizoram – Zu

Zu, a rice beer enjoyed in summer, cools the body and promotes gut wellness.

18. Nagaland – Zutho

Another fermented rice drink, Zutho is a traditional way to refresh and stay cool naturally.

19. Odisha – Tanka Torni & Bel Panna

Fermented rice water (Tanka Torni) and nutrient-packed Bel Panna help beat the heat and soothe digestion.

20. Punjab – Sweet Lassi

Creamy, rich, and sweet - Punjabi Lassi is beloved for its energy-boosting and cooling properties.

21. Rajasthan – Jaljeera

Tangy and spicy Kachri Jaljeera aids digestion and quenches thirst like no other.

22. Sikkim – Chhang

A traditional barley or millet drink served chilled. Probiotic and energy-rich.

23. Tamil Nadu – Neer Mor

A spiced buttermilk infused with ginger, curry leaves, and chillies—perfect for preventing heatstroke.

24. Telangana – Ambali

Made from ragi, curd, and cumin, Ambali is rich in calcium and keeps the body cool.

25. Tripura – Chuak & Mosla Sharbet

Chuak is a rice beer while Mosla Sharbet made from herbs and jaggery provides a natural cooling effect.

26. Uttar Pradesh – Thandai, Sattu, Aam Sharbat

Thandai with rose and almonds, and sattu or raw mango sharbat are UP’s go-to summer beverages.

27. Uttarakhand – Buransh Sherbet

Made from rhododendron petals, this floral sherbet is antioxidant-rich and heart-healthy.

28. West Bengal – Gondhoraj Ghol, Aam Pora Shorbot, Bel Sharbet

Lime-scented buttermilk, roasted mango drinks, and wood apple sherbets keep Bengal cool and energised.

India’s traditional summer drinks are more than just refreshing - they’re packed with nutrients, culture, and heritage. So this summer, ditch the soda and cool down the desi way with these timeless regional beverages.