There’s something undeniably enchanting about Indian winters—the gentle warmth of the sun, the nip in the air, and the comforting habit of cupping a steaming glass of chai in your hands. While the word chai may sound simple, India celebrates it in countless forms, each with its own flavour, method, and emotion.

Here are nine beautiful chai traditions from across the country that make winter feel warmer, one soothing sip at a time:

# Noon Chai – Kashmir’s Pink Winter Embrace

This iconic Kashmiri brew is as mesmerising as it looks. Made from green tea leaves simmered with baking soda, then enriched with milk and salt, noon chai gets its delicate pink hue naturally. Creamy and comforting, it pairs wonderfully with lavasa or sheermal on a cold evening.

# Gur Chai – Punjab’s Sweet Winter Favourite

Winter and jaggery are a perfect match. In Punjab, tea is sweetened with gur, lending it deep caramel notes and a natural richness—ideal for foggy mornings and slow starts.

# Irani Chai – Hyderabad’s Silky Sweet Indulgence

Originating in Hyderabad’s legendary Irani cafés, this chai is slow-cooked, luxuriously creamy, and generously sweet. Best enjoyed with Osmania biscuits and unhurried winter conversations.

# Butter Tea – Ladakh’s High-Altitude Warmer

Known locally as gur-gur chai, this Ladakhi staple blends tea leaves, yak butter, and salt, churned into a frothy drink. Designed to nourish, hydrate, and warm the body in extreme cold, it feels like comfort with a purpose.

# Kahwa – Kashmir’s Aromatic Winter Tradition

A fragrant infusion of green tea, saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, and nuts, Kahwa is winter elegance in a cup. It aids digestion, warms the body, and fills the air with a festive aroma.

# Ronga Saah – Assam’s Pure Tea Experience

For those who love tea in its truest form, Ronga Saah is a delight. Brewed without milk, this red tea lets Assam’s bold, malty flavours shine through—perfect for calm, quiet winter mornings.

# Nagori Chai – Rajasthan’s Creamy Royal Treat

Thick, slow-cooked, and topped with layers of malai, Nagori chai feels almost like dessert. Originating from Nagaur, it’s best savoured on chilly desert nights.

# Pudina Chai – Rajasthan’s Minty Winter Refresh

A handful of fresh mint leaves transforms everyday chai into a refreshing winter beverage. Pudina chai is especially comforting after rich, festive meals, offering warmth with a hint of freshness.

# Sulaimani Chai – Kerala’s Light Spiced Brew

Milk-free and gently spiced, Sulaimani chai combines lemon, cardamom, cinnamon, and sometimes mint. Light, zesty, and soothing, it’s the perfect drink to end a heavy winter meal.