Diverse states in India have diverse food and drink practices. There are some indigenous drinks unique to the region. The drinks are sure to be unique and refreshing. Some of the most popular drinks from across the country are listed below. There are Indian drinks to beat the summer heat and sizzling beverages to keep you warm during the winters.
Hot flavoured tea
The masala chai as it is called locally is one of the most popular Indian beverages made of aromatic herbs and spices. The black tea mixed with an assortment of selective spices is a popular sight on the roadside shops.
Lemonade
Nimbu Pani is an Indian drink seen predominantly in this tropical region. It helps to sustain the scorching heat of the summer months. The drink is called Shikanje in Pakistan and North India. There are many variations in the drink. It can be prepared with ginger juice and ice, saffron, black salt and cumin garnished with mint leaves.
Green mango drink
Aam Panna made of green mango is a cool drink to beat the summer heat. The green mangoes have health benefits; it helps in treating gastro-intestinal disorders. It is rich in Vitamin C and can be used to treat blood disorders. It is prepared by blending raw mangoes, spices and sugar. The drink is popular in the northern part of India.
Butter milk
Chaach comes with some excellent thirst quenching properties and is predominantly used in the desert regions of Rajasthan. Curd is blended into a smoothie making it a relishing drink for the summers. Some of the other names for the drink are Moru, Tak and Majige. For best results sour curd is used. Sweetened butter milk is called Lassi and is served in tall glasses seasoned with rose essence and Dhoodh Peda. This is indigenous to the region of Punjab and is refreshing to have during summers. Some of the varieties of lassi includes Mango Lassi, Sweet Lassi and Bhang Lassi.
Thandai
This is a also known as Bhang and is made of rich dry fruits and milk. The Thandai is healthy and tasty. It has an intoxicating effect on the body and mind. The drink is taken during Maha Shivratri. Bhang is prepared during Holi festival and is cold beverage. It is made of almonds, pepper, rose petals, vetiver seeds, fennel seeds, cardamom, saffron, magaztari seeds, sugar and milk. It is a special drink made in India and is a festival drink.
Coconut waters
A natural health drink, coconut water is taken by people across the country. The drink is popular among street markets and is found in abundance during summer. Coconut water is a healthy drink that helps to prevent dehydration of the body.
Palm Wine
Toddy is known as Palm wine and is popular in the states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh where Palm trees grow in abundance. The drink is created from different species of Palm like Palmyra, coconut palms and date palms. It is an alcoholic drink yet has medicinal properties and is good for health.
Falooda
A sweetened cool beverage prominent in the northern parts of the country, the drink is made from milk. Jelly cubes, rose syrup, vermicelli and ice cream. The drink is loaded with the goodness of nuts making it a wholesome drink. The rich ingredients make the drink highly nutritious and healthy.
Fenny
It is a local drink indigenous to Goa. Fenny is made of cashew apple or coconut and is a type of country liquor. The drink is cheaper and is used in shacks, bars and restaurants in Goa.