Explore Famous Mango Varieties in India
Mango, fondly referred to as the “King of Fruits,” holds a special place in the hearts and palates of millions of Indians. Revered for its luscious sweetness, exotic aroma, and juicy texture, the mango is more than just a summer delight—it is a cultural and economic symbol of India. India is the largest producer and consumer of mangoes in the world, cultivating over a thousand varieties. However, only a select few have gained nationwide fame and international recognition.
In this article, we explore the most famous mango varieties in India, highlighting their unique characteristics, regional origins, and what makes each one special.
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1. Alphonso (Hapus) – The Pride of Maharashtra
Region: Ratnagiri, Devgad (Maharashtra)
Season: April to June
Arguably the most celebrated mango variety, Alphonso, also known as Hapus, is renowned for its perfect blend of sweetness and acidity, golden saffron color, and smooth, buttery texture. Grown along the Konkan coast, especially in Ratnagiri and Devgad, Alphonso mangoes have earned a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
Notable Features:
- Rich aroma and intense sweetness
- Firm yet juicy pulp with no fiber
- Excellent for export due to long shelf life
Fun Fact: Alphonso mangoes are named after Afonso de Albuquerque, a Portuguese general who helped establish Portuguese colonies in India.
2. Dasheri – The Nawabi Mango
Region: Malihabad (Uttar Pradesh)
Season: June to July
The Dasheri mango traces its roots back to the royal gardens of Lucknow. Cultivated extensively in Malihabad, near Lucknow, this variety is known for its distinct aroma and sweet, fibrous-free flesh.
Notable Features:
- Medium-sized with a greenish-yellow skin
- Soft, juicy pulp with a honey-like taste
- Ideal for eating fresh or making aam panna
Historical Note: The original Dasheri tree is said to be over 200 years old and still bears fruit.
3. Langra – The Banarasi Delight
Region: Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)
Season: Mid-July to August
Another jewel from Uttar Pradesh, Langra mango is famous for its tangy-sweet taste and fibrous texture. Its green skin remains even after ripening, which distinguishes it from other yellow-skinned varieties.
Notable Features:
- Oval shape with bright green skin
- Strong aroma and firm flesh
- Slightly sour, making it perfect for chutneys and pickles
Trivia: The name “Langra” (meaning lame) supposedly comes from a farmer who first cultivated the variety while being physically challenged.
4. Kesar – The Saffron Mango
Region: Junagadh, Girnar Hills (Gujarat)
Season: May to July
Known as the “Queen of Mangoes,” Kesar mango is famous for its bright orange flesh and rich fragrance. Grown in the foothills of Girnar in Junagadh, Gujarat, Kesar mangoes are ideal for pulp-based products and desserts.
Notable Features:
- Small to medium-sized with golden yellow skin
- Intense sweetness and aroma
- Perfect for making mango pulp, milkshakes, and desserts
Recognition: Kesar also holds a GI tag, protecting its regional identity.
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5. Banganapalli (Safeda) – Andhra’s Gift
Region: Banganapalle (Andhra Pradesh), Telangana
Season: April to June
Banganapalli, also known as Safeda, is one of the earliest mangoes to arrive in the market each year. With its smooth skin and minimal fiber, it’s a popular table mango across South India.
Notable Features:
- Elongated shape with golden-yellow skin
- Mildly sweet flavor and firm pulp
- Good for slicing and direct consumption
Interesting Fact: This mango is so popular in Andhra that it is often called the “king of mangoes” in the southern states.
6. Totapuri – The Parrot-Beaked Mango
Region: Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu
Season: May to July
Named for its parrot-like beak shape, Totapuri is less sweet than other varieties and is often used in processed products like mango juice, jams, and pickles.
Notable Features:
- Greenish-yellow skin with a pointed tip
- Tangy flavor and firm texture
- Ideal for pickles and pulpy beverages
Industrial Use: Due to its large size and high pulp content, Totapuri is preferred by mango processing industries.
7. Himsagar – Bengal’s Hidden Gem
Region: Murshidabad, Malda (West Bengal)
Season: Mid-May to June
Himsagar is a lesser-known but incredibly delicious variety native to West Bengal. It is prized for its aroma, sweetness, and juicy texture.
Notable Features:
- Medium size with yellowish-green skin
- Pulp is completely fiberless and melts in the mouth
- Excellent for desserts and mango lassi
Note: Himsagar has a short shelf life, making it difficult to export widely.
8. Neelam – Late Bloomer with Fragrance
Region: Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh
Season: June to August
Neelam is a late-season mango known for its floral aroma and long shelf life. It is often the last mango to appear in Indian markets during the summer season.
Notable Features:
- Small to medium size with reddish-yellow skin
- Fragrant and tangy-sweet taste
- Great for storage and export
Pro Tip: The later the Neelam is harvested in the season, the sweeter it becomes.
9. Amrapali – The Hybrid Wonder
Region: Pan-India (Developed by ICAR)
Season: Late June to July
Developed as a hybrid of Dasheri and Neelum, Amrapali mango is known for its deep red pulp and intense sweetness. It is commonly grown in home gardens and commercial orchards alike.
Notable Features:
- Small in size but high in sugar content
- Deep orange to red pulp
- Suitable for domestic use and freezing
Advantage: Amrapali trees are dwarf and produce fruit early, making them popular among small-scale farmers.
10. Mallika – The High-Yield Hybrid
Region: Karnataka, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh
Season: June to July
Mallika is another successful hybrid, combining Neelum and Dasheri. It has become increasingly popular among mango cultivators for its high yield and long shelf life.
Notable Features:
- Oblong fruit with sweet, aromatic pulp
- High in beta-carotene and vitamins
- Excellent for commercial farming and exports
Conclusion
From the silky sweetness of Alphonso to the fragrant punch of Langra, India’s mango diversity is a treasure trove of flavors and stories. These mango varieties are more than agricultural products—they represent the biodiversity, history, and culinary richness of India.
Whether you’re a mango enthusiast, a food blogger, or someone who just enjoys a summer treat, exploring these famous Indian mangoes is a journey worth savoring. So the next time you’re at a fruit market during mango season, try a new variety and taste the heritage of India in every bite.
FAQs on Indian Mango Varieties
Q1. Which is the sweetest mango in India?
A: Alphonso and Amrapali are among the sweetest mango varieties grown in India.
Q2. What is the best mango for making pickles?
A: Totapuri and raw Langra are often used for making pickles due to their tanginess.
Q3. Which mango is best for export?
A: Alphonso, Kesar, and Banganapalli are widely exported due to their long shelf life.
Q4. Which mango comes earliest in the season?
A: Banganapalli typically arrives first, starting as early as late April.
Q5. Can I grow mangoes at home?
A: Yes! Varieties like Amrapali and Mallika are well-suited for small gardens and even large pots.
