10 Best Summer Drinks To Beat The Heat in 2025
Summer in India is not an easy season. The extreme heat, scorching sun, and constant sweat can make anyone feel drained. And in moments like these, it's tempting to grab a processed, fizzy drink for quick relief. But wasn't summer once about holidays and relaxing? Long vacations at nani ke ghar, lazy afternoons filled with games, and the simple joy of sipping on chilled chaach or tangy jaljeera straight from steel glasses?
While we may not always find time to relive those summer breaks, relying on sugary colas or artificially flavoured drinks is not the right solution. These drinks might taste yummy and feel convenient but have long-term health impacts. The best part is that we can still bring back the taste of tradition with the help of natural, wholesome and best summer drinks.
India is home to some truly refreshing, traditional drinks that are easy to make, gentle on the body, and full of familiar comfort. Let's check them out.
Which are the 10 Best Summer Drinks in 2025?
Apart from water or soda, there are multiple refreshing summer drinks to choose from. The following options are not only healthy and flavourful but can be rejoiced by every age group:
Chaach:
Chaach is a light, tangy, and cooling drink that's perfect for Indian summers and loved by everyone. It keeps you hydrated, supports digestion, and helps prevent acidity or bloating. You can enjoy it between meals or pair it with your lunch.
How to make it: Blend fresh curd with cold water, then season it with roasted cumin powder, black salt, grated ginger, and fresh coriander. For those who do not have the time to prepare it at home, Kota Fresh Chaach is a healthy and convenient option. It’s made from fresh curd and free from any preservatives.
2. Aam Panna:
Kokum Sherbet is a traditional drink from the coastal regions of India. It is known for its naturally tangy taste and cooling properties. It’s especially beneficial during humid summers and aids in digestion as well.
How to make it: Soak dried kokum in water for a few hours, strain the liquid, and mix it with jaggery, black salt, and cumin powder. Let it chill in the refrigerator before serving.
3. Nimbu Paani:
Nimbu Paani, or fresh lemon water, is one of the most popular summer drinks across Indian households. Its simplicity, cooling effect, and ability to restore energy make it a go-to option for hot, tiring days.
How to make it: Squeeze fresh lemon juice into cold water, then add a pinch of black salt, roasted cumin powder, and a natural sweetener like jaggery or honey. Stir well and serve with ice cubes.
4. Kokum Sherbet:
Kokum Sherbet is a traditional drink from the coastal regions of India. It is known for its naturally tangy taste and cooling properties. It’s especially beneficial during humid summers and aids in digestion as well.
How to make it: Soak dried kokum in water for a few hours, strain the liquid, and mix it with jaggery, black salt, and cumin powder. Let it chill in the refrigerator before serving.
5. Kesar Badaam Milk:
A favourite among mothers, kesar badam milk is a nourishing and tasty drink. This milk-based drink is rich, creamy and loaded with the goodness of almonds. It also has a mild and subtle fragrance of saffron. The ingredients of this drink help improve immunity and keep the body cool from within.
How to make it: Soak almonds overnight and grind them into a smooth paste. Add this to boiled and cooled milk along with a few strands of saffron, a pinch of cardamom, and sugar to taste. If you are looking for a quicker option for guests or while going to the office, Kota Fresh flavoured kesar badaam milk is a delicious ready-to-drink choice. Our flavoured milk options are nutritious, chilled, and made from high-quality ingredients.
6. Thandai:
Thandai is a festive summer drink packed with the richness of nuts, spices, and cooling herbs. However, it can be had occasionally during summer. It helps energise the body and balance internal heat.
How to make it: Blend soaked almonds, fennel seeds, poppy seeds, melon seeds, cardamom, and black pepper into a fine paste. Mix this with cold milk and sweeten it with sugar. Refrigerate for a while before serving.
7. Sattu Drink:
Made from roasted gram flour, Sattu Drink is a wholesome and protein-rich beverage that is especially popular in Bihar, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. It provides energy, supports digestion, and is an excellent protein source.
How to make it: Mix sattu flour with chilled water, then add lemon juice, black salt, and roasted cumin powder. Stir well until smooth and enjoy as a mid-morning or afternoon cooler.
8. Jaljeera:
Jaljeera is a spicy, tangy drink that works wonders for digestion and helps prevent fatigue during the summer. It is usually served as an appetiser but can be had at any time of the day.
How to make it: Blend mint leaves, coriander, tamarind pulp, roasted cumin, black salt, and a little jaggery with water. Strain the mixture and refrigerate before serving chilled.
9. Mango Smoothie:
A creamy mango smoothie is both appetising and good for your health summer drink. It contains fibre, vitamins, and natural sugars, making it a perfect breakfast or snack during the summer.
How to make it: Blend ripe mango pulp with Kota Fresh skim milk, a spoonful of honey, and a few ice cubes. This combination offers a smooth, naturally sweet flavour without the heaviness of full-cream milk.
10. Lassi
Lassi is a thick, creamy yoghurt-based drink that’s filling and rejuvenating. It cools the body, aids digestion, and is available in both sweet and savoury forms.
How to make it: Blend curd with water and sugar or salt, depending on your preference. Flavour it with rose water, cardamom, or even fruits. If you love homemade lassi but do not have the time to prepare it, Kota Fresh lassi is the best option for you. It is thick, satisfying and conveniently available whenever you crave.
Cool Down this Summer with Kota Fresh Dairy
When the heat gets too much, reach for something that’s rooted in tradition and made for the season. Kota Fresh Dairy brings you a list of dairy products that are so creamy and mouth-watering. Our classic Indian summer drinks like chaach, lassi, and flavoured kesar badaam milk and other beverages are made with real ingredients and no added chemicals. It’s everything you love, chilled and ready to enjoy.
