India’s Favourite Beverages

“India doesn’t just eat according to its seasons, it drinks with them too. And here, every sip tells a story of comfort, culture and community.”

India is a land of extremes from bone-chilling winters, scorching summers, and monsoons that bring their own charm. With every season comes a shift in our cravings. Spicy, hot comfort foods dominate winter, while chilled delights rule summer. But one thing remains constant: after a long, tiring day, everyone longs for something refreshing. And in India, street-side beverage stalls are the true saviors, found on almost every corner. Here are some of the most loved drinks that keep the nation energized.

🍋 Shikanji (Lemonade, Indian Style)

 There’s nothing more refreshing than a glass of lemon juice, called lemonade across the world and shikanji in India. But unlike plain lemonade, shikanji comes with a spicy twist: black salt, mint, black pepper, and chaat masala, all mixed with tangy lemon. Served as a welcome drink in homes and at roadside stalls, it is the go-to refresher for workers, travelers, and anyone battling exhaustion.

☕ Chai (Tea)

If there’s one beverage India is obsessed with, it’s tea. From bustling streets to quiet villages, “ek cup chai” is the magic phrase that revives millions every day. Tea doesn’t just fight sleepiness, it’s a ritual, a conversation starter, and a daily comfort. Over time, this love has birthed many variations: masala chai, cutting chai, and even smoky tandoori chai, which is served from a clay cup charred over fire.

🍹 Sugarcane Juice

Freshly pressed sugarcane juice is India’s natural energy drink. Found along highways, markets, and street corners, it’s cheap, hydrating, and delicious. Usually served with ice cubes, ginger, and a splash of lemon, this golden-green juice is both filling and refreshing, perfect for summer weariness.

This tasty drink is served in glasses with ice cubes and a little ginger and lemon flavour. Which makes it more yummy. Just a glass of sugarcane juice is enough to makeyou energetic and fill your stomach as well.

🥛 Lassi

 A true gift from Punjab, lassi is made by churning fresh yogurt with milk until smooth and frothy. Traditionally sweetened or salted, lassi is now enjoyed in many flavors—mango, strawberry, chocolate, and the ever-popular masala lassi. Served in tall glasses or traditional clay cups, it’s as much a cultural symbol as a drink.

🥤 Buttermilk (Chaas/Matha/Ghol)

Known by many names across India, chaas in Gujarat, matha in North India and ghol in Bengal, buttermilk is a light, tangy, yogurt-based drink. Spiced with roasted cumin, curry leaves, or simply sweetened, it’s the ultimate summer cooler. Often served in clay pots, it not only aids digestion but also carries a rustic charm.

🥥 Tender Coconut Water

 Few things beat the simplicity of sipping fresh coconut water straight from the shell. Found abundantly across South India and coastal towns, it’s nature’s own sports drink, cooling, hydrating and nutritious. The tender coconut flesh inside adds an extra treat, making it both a drink and a snack.

Apart from these six favorites, India’s beverage culture is rich and diverse, right from fruit juices, cold coffee, milkshakes, smoothies, mint coolers and of course the ever-present cold drinks. Whatever the season, there’s always a refreshing sip waiting just around the corner.