Exploring the Diverse Mango Varieties in India

Famously known as the ‘King of Mangoes,’ Alphonso mangoes have earned a reputation for their sweet taste and juicy flavor. This mango variety predominantly grows in the regions of Maharashtra and Gujarat. Recognized by its bright yellow skin, the Alphonso mango is a treat that many wait for during the mango season.

Gujarat’s pride, the Kesar mango, is so named because its pulp resembles saffron in both color and aroma. This mango variety offers a very delicious taste and juicy flesh beneath its green skin.

Originating from North India, especially Uttar Pradesh, this mango variety has a pleasant taste and a thin skin. Over the years, Dashehari has been one of the famous mangoes of the region.

Hailing from the region of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, Langra mangoes are a mid-season fruit with greenish-yellow skin and a tangy flavor that is loved by many.

Popular in South India, especially Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, Neelam mangoes appear by the onset of monsoon. This mango variety is known for its rosy flavor and aromatic taste.

West Bengal’s treasures, these mango varieties are revered for their superb flavor and thin skin.

Easily identified by its parrot beak-like tip, Totapuri thrives in the southern states. Its flesh has a blend of sweet and sour notes, making it versatile for both eating raw and for culinary uses.

Often referred to as the Alphonso of Karnataka, Badami mangoes have a similar juicy texture and delicious taste.

These mangoes are popular for their mildly sweet taste. As the name suggests, Bombay green mangoes possess a bright green skin and are largely cultivated in the northern parts of India.

Predominantly found in the northern regions, Chausa mangoes have a juicy flavor and delightful aroma. They are available in various sub-varieties, including Black, Green, and White Chausa.

A treat for mango connoisseurs, Pairi mangoes have a distinct spicy touch to their sweet taste. Their skin is a mix of green overtones with a reddish tinge.

Popular in the regions of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, these mangoes have a round shape and are famous for their juicy flesh and exceptional sweetness.

Originating from Andhra Pradesh, this mango variety is known for its pale yellow skin and light orange, aromatic flavor.

In addition to these popular Indian varieties, there are also mangoes like Tommy Atkins Mango, Haden, Francis, apple mango, and Red Mangoes, predominantly found in regions outside India like South Florida, but they have also found their place in the Indian market.

India’s mangoes, each with its unique taste, color, and texture, represent the rich biodiversity of the country. From the juicy and sweet Alphonso and Kesar to the tangy and versatile Totapuri, the variety is immense. And it’s not just about the taste. The vibrant colors – from golden yellow to pale yellow and greenish-yellow – are a treat for the eyes too.

Visiting India during the mango season offers a unique experience for travelers and food enthusiasts. The sight of mango trees laden with summer fruit, the bustling markets displaying myriad types of mangoes, and the excitement of tasting each variety is unparalleled.

In conclusion, mangoes are not just a tropical fruit for Indians; they are a part of the country’s cultural and gastronomic fabric. Every region has its famous mango, every household its favorite type, and every individual has a memory associated with this delightful fruit. Whether you’re a local relishing your favorite mango or a traveler exploring the exotic mango hotspots of India, the experience is bound to be unforgettable.

Whether you’re a mango enthusiast looking to taste the diverse mango varieties in India or simply someone curious about the different types of mangoes, there’s no denying that the Indian mango is a fruit par excellence. So, the next time you’re in India or at an Indian grocery store elsewhere, don’t forget to indulge in the succulent and delicious mangoes that the country has to offer.