Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, is famous for its majestic forts, palaces, and rich culture. But one of the hidden gems of this vibrant city is its traditional drinks. Jaipur’s street drinks are a perfect reflection of its rich culinary heritage and culture. Whether it’s a refreshing drink to beat the heat or a warm beverage to enjoy during the cooler months, Jaipur offers an array of flavorful drinks that are loved by locals and visitors alike. Here is a detailed guide to the best traditional beverages in Jaipur.
A Jaipurite’s Guide to the Best Traditional Beverages in Jaipur
1. Lassi – Traditional Yogurt Drink in Jaipur
- Lassi is a must-try traditional drink in Jaipur, made from yogurt. This iconic drink is available in two popular versions: sweet and salty lassi. Sweet lassi is flavored with saffron, sugar, or cardamom, while salty lassi is spiced with cumin, black salt, and sometimes even mint leaves. It’s the perfect cooling drink during Jaipur’s hot summer days.
2. Chaas (Buttermilk) – A Digestive Drink
- Chaas, also known as buttermilk, is another popular beverage in Jaipur. Made from yogurt and water, it is spiced with cumin and black salt, making it a tangy, cooling drink that aids in digestion. It is typically served in traditional clay cups and is a favorite among locals.
3. Masala Chai – Spiced Tea of Jaipur
- Masala chai, or spiced tea, is the quintessential drink in Jaipur, enjoyed by locals at every corner. This drink is made with black tea leaves, milk, and a blend of spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom. A hot cup of masala chai is a comforting beverage, ideal for Jaipur’s chilly evenings.
4. Kesar Badam Milk – Saffron Almond Milk Drink
- A luxurious drink for special occasions, Kesar Badam Milk is made with saffron, almonds, and milk. This indulgent beverage is rich in flavor and is a popular winter drink in Jaipur due to its warm, soothing properties.
5. Gulab Sherbet – Rose Drink of Jaipur
- Gulab Sherbet is a refreshing drink made from rose petals and sugar. With its sweet floral taste and fragrant aroma, it’s a perfect drink to cool off on hot summer days in Jaipur. It’s not only refreshing but also adds a touch of elegance to your Jaipur experience.
6. Lemon Soda – A Tangy Refreshing Drink
- Lemon soda is a tangy and refreshing drink served with lemon, carbonated soda, black salt, and cumin. This drink is popular during the summer months and helps you stay refreshed while exploring Jaipur’s bustling streets.
7. Fresh Fruit Juices – Hydrating and Healthy Drinks
- Jaipur’s local markets are filled with vendors offering fresh fruit juices made from seasonal fruits like mangoes, pomegranates, and watermelon. These juices are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making them a healthy and refreshing choice.
8. Pomegranate Juice – Antioxidant-Rich Drink
- Pomegranate juice is a tangy and sweet beverage that’s full of antioxidants. It’s a popular choice in Jaipur’s street drink scene, known for its ability to detoxify and rejuvenate the body.
9. Mosambi Juice – Sweet Lime Juice
- Mosambi juice, also known as sweet lime juice, is a refreshing citrus beverage that’s rich in Vitamin C. This drink is ideal for quenching your thirst and boosting your immunity, especially during the warmer months.
10. Aloe Vera Juice – A Detoxifying Beverage
- Aloe Vera juice is a health drink that’s known for its detoxifying properties. Made from the flesh of the aloe vera plant, this juice is perfect for digestion and is a popular health beverage in Jaipur.
11. Jaljeera – Spicy and Tangy Drink
- Jaljeera is a traditional Indian drink made with cumin, mint, and a variety of spices. Known for its tangy and spicy flavor, it is a great digestive drink, commonly served at Jaipur’s local markets.
12. Fresh Coconut Water – Natural Hydration
- Fresh coconut water is a natural, hydrating drink served directly from the coconut. It’s the perfect drink to cool off and hydrate during Jaipur’s scorching summer heat.
13. Shikanji – Indian Spiced Lemonade
- Shikanji is a spiced lemonade made with lemon, black salt, cumin, and a variety of other spices. It’s a tangy, flavorful drink that is perfect for cooling off during the hot summer months in Jaipur.
14. Ginger Lemon Honey Tea – A Soothing Drink
- Ginger lemon honey tea is a soothing beverage made with fresh ginger, lemon, and honey. This drink is not only refreshing but also provides immune-boosting properties, making it a favorite among locals during colder months.
15. Mint Lemonade – A Refreshing Cooler
- Mint lemonade is made with fresh mint leaves, lemon, and sugar. This drink is often served chilled and is one of the most popular beverages in Jaipur during the summer.
16. Rose Water Lemonade – Fragrant and Refreshing
- Rose water lemonade combines rose water, lemon juice, and sugar to create a fragrant, cooling drink that’s perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day in Jaipur.
17. Sugarcane Juice – Natural Sweet Drink
- Sugarcane juice is a natural sweet beverage extracted from fresh sugarcane. It’s typically served chilled and is often mixed with lemon and ginger for added flavor. This refreshing drink is perfect for those looking for something naturally sweet and hydrating.
18. Thandai – Traditional Festival Drink
- Thandai is a festive drink made with milk, almonds, rose water, and a blend of spices like cardamom and saffron. It’s traditionally enjoyed during festivals like Holi and is known for its cooling properties.
19. Khus Sharbat – Herbal Summer Drink
- Khus sharbat is made from khus (vetiver) essence and is known for its fragrant aroma and cooling properties. This herbal drink is a popular choice during the hot summer months in Jaipur.
20. Badam Pista Milkshake – Nutty Milkshake
- Badam Pista milkshake is a creamy drink made with almonds, pistachios, and milk. This milkshake is rich in flavor and is perfect for those who want a nutritious, indulgent beverage.