By Tanisha Agarwal
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Published on June 11, 2025
India, known for its rich culinary diversity and vibrant spice culture, is now shaking up the cocktail scene with the same intensity. Drawing from age-old Ayurvedic herbs to tropical fruits and desi spirits like feni and toddy, Indian mixologists are redefining the cocktail game with bold, inventive flavors. Whether you're sipping something spicy, floral, or smoky, these Indian cocktail creations promise an unforgettable experience. Here’s a curated list of famous Indian cocktail drinks you must try – at home or at your next bar visit.
Key Ingredients: Vodka, brewed masala chai, vanilla syrup, cream
A modern twist on India’s favorite beverage, masala chai, this cocktail infuses spiced tea with vodka and cream, resulting in a warming yet boozy delight. It’s shaken over ice and served in a martini glass, making it perfect for winter evenings or themed dinner parties.
Why Try It: It’s nostalgic, comforting, and packs a punch with spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.
Key Ingredients: Vodka, kokum syrup (Kala Khatta), black salt, lemon juice, crushed ice
Inspired by Indian childhood treats, this cocktail blends tangy kala khatta syrup with vodka and salt, served slushy-style. It’s tangy, salty, sweet, and wonderfully nostalgic.
Why Try It: Combines street-style Indian flavours with an adult twist, ideal for summer sipping.
Key Ingredients: White rum, raw mango pulp (aam panna), mint leaves, black salt, soda
A desi take on the Cuban classic, this mojito replaces lime with tangy raw mango and adds a pinch of kala namak (black salt) for that signature North Indian flair. It’s a seasonal cocktail best enjoyed in peak mango season (March–June).
Why Try It: Refreshing and tangy, with Indian summer nostalgia in every sip.
Key Ingredients: Gin, jamun (Java plum) syrup, lime juice, tonic water
This violet-hued beauty gets its color and tartness from jamun, a monsoon-season fruit in India. When mixed with gin and topped with tonic, it’s aromatic and visually striking.
Why Try It: Its vibrant color and fruity-spicy notes make it a conversation starter.
Key Ingredients: Whiskey, tamarind pulp, ginger syrup, lemon juice, egg white (optional)
Tamarind and ginger, both integral to Indian cuisine, turn the classic whiskey sour into a bold, tangy-spicy cocktail. Egg white adds a silky finish, though it’s optional.
Why Try It: Sour, spicy, and smoky – an intense and layered drink for whiskey lovers.
Key Ingredients: Tequila, lime juice, curry leaf syrup, Cointreau
This unique twist infuses curry leaf syrup into a margarita for a hint of bitter, aromatic herbaceousness that works surprisingly well with tequila.
Why Try It: It’s creative, savoury, and a true nod to South Indian flavours.
Key Ingredients: Tequila, tamarind paste, lime juice, simple syrup, salt rim
Imli (tamarind) lends its tangy-sweet flavor to this Indian remix of a margarita. Often served with a spiced rim, it’s bold and palate-awakening.
Why Try It: Combines Mexican technique with Indian ingredients for a zesty experience.
Key Ingredients: Gin, tonic water, gulkand (rose petal jam), lemon juice
A delicate and floral variation of the classic G&T, this version includes a spoonful of gulkand, a staple in Indian Ayurvedic recipes which adds sweet, perfumed depth.
Why Try It: A fragrant, refreshing drink perfect for brunch or romantic evenings.
Key Ingredients: White rum or vodka, coconut water, kafir lime leaves, lemongrass
Light and hydrating, this cocktail uses coconut water often called “nature’s sports drink” with Southeast Asian aromatics like lemongrass and kafir lime.
Why Try It: Wellness meets mixology, great for humid evenings or detox days.
Key Ingredients: Thandai mix, milk, vodka or rum, saffron, almonds
Traditionally served during Holi, thandai is a milk-based drink with dry fruits and spices. Add a shot of vodka or rum, and it turns into a rich, decadent cocktail.
Why Try It: Festive, nutty, and creamy – dessert and drink in one.
These famous Indian cocktails are more than just drinks, they’re cultural expressions in a glass. As Indian bars and restaurants increasingly embrace local ingredients, spices, and spirits, these cocktails stand at the intersection of tradition and innovation.
Whether you’re a curious mixologist or a casual drinker, these concoctions are a must-try for anyone seeking new flavors. Cheers to drinking local, and drinking bold!
