
Gulabi Chai to Kesar Kahwa: Exploring Kashmir’s Varieties of Teas
Kashmir is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich in tradition, especially when it comes to tea. No Kashmiri kitchen is truly complete without a few blends of its signature tea.
From the blush-pink colour of Gulabi Chai to the rejuvenating aroma of Kesar Kahwa, every sip holds meaning and comes with numerous benefits.
In this blog, we'll talk about the flavorful teas that people from all over the world love.
Whether you're an all-season chai lover or new to Kashmiri brews, this guide will help you explore the most loved varieties, with kashmiri kahwa benefits, and how to make them part of your daily ritual.
But before we get to that part, let's discuss a little about the rituals tied to the teas!
The Ritual of Tea in Kashmiri Culture
Whether you're sipping Kashmiri Kehwa online to start your day or ending it with a warm cup of gulabi chai, tea is the central part of Kashmiri life.

Along with being a staple, teas are also considered a symbol of celebration in some events, like:
- Weddings: Guests are welcomed with a selection of sweet and savoury teas.
- Winter months: Tea acts as a warming companion.
- Family gatherings: Moments are marked by chai and chatter.
Major Types of Kashmiri Teas
If you've ever been to a Kashmiri home, chances are you were offered one of these iconic teas. More than just beverages, they're tied to hospitality, memory, and meaning. Let's discover the major types that are most popular.
1. Gulabi Chai/ Sheer Chai
Also known as Pink Chai, Gulabi Chai is a visually striking and flavorful beverage. It originates from Noon Chai (also called Namkeen Chai), which is made using black tea leaves, baking soda, and salt.
The key difference lies in the addition of milk—when milk is added to Noon Chai, its known as Gulabi Chai, giving it its characteristic pink hue. Traditionally enjoyed during winters or special occasions like weddings, this tea is both comforting and culturally rich.

Why It’s Unique
- The aesthetic pink colour of this tea is achieved through the combination of baking soda and tea leaves.
- You can add milk cream and toasted vermicelli to give it more taste.
- The salty flavour might surprise first-timers, but it's deeply warming and satisfying.
Health Benefits
- Rich in antioxidants.
- It aids digestion and helps in staying warm during cold months.
2. Kesar Kahwa
Next on our list is the celebrated Kesar Kahwa, also known as Zaffrani Kehwa. This herbal tea with a saffron aroma is a soothing blend of spices, including cardamom and cinnamon, often garnished with crushed almonds.
It is a herbal tea without caffeine used to serve VIPs/ SILs, as saffron is an expensive spice and makes the tea a very distinguished beverage.
Ingredients That Make It Special
- Kashmiri saffron (handpicked in Pampore at 12,000 ft)
- Vietnamese cinnamon, California almonds, and Idduki cardamom
At Kehwah.in, every sachet is prepared using traditional recipes, staying true to its roots while fitting into your modern life.
Why Is Kesar Kahwa So Popular?
Here's a list of reasons why Kesar Kahwa is famous:
Boosts Digestion
Thanks to warming spices like cinnamon and cardamom, kesar kahwa helps soothe the stomach and improve digestion—perfect after a heavy meal.
Mood-Boosting Effects
Saffron is not just an add-on; it's a natural antidepressant—many experience a sense of calm and mild euphoria after drinking Kesar Kahwa, minus any side effects.
Glowing Skin
Packed with antioxidants, this tea helps detox your system and gives your skin a natural, healthy glow.
Supports Metabolism
Trying to manage your weight or maintain energy without the caffeine crash? This is where Kashmiri Kehwa shines. It provides gentle stimulation while supporting metabolic health.
Perfect for Any Time of Day
Whether it's Morning, post-lunch, or bedtime, Kesar Kahwa has no caffeine and is herbal, so you can enjoy it without disrupting your routine.
3. Kashmiri Kahwa
Often confused with modern green teas, Kashmiri Kahwa, also known as Moghul Chai — is a traditional spiced tea deeply rooted in Kashmiri culture.
Made with whole-leaf green tea, saffron, cardamom, cinnamon, and almonds, this aromatic blend offers both warmth and wellness.

It carries a rich golden hue and a delicate balance of sweet and spicy notes, making it a versatile drink for any time of day. It’s caffeine-light and free from milk, making it gentle on the stomach and perfect for daily consumption.
How It Differs
- Is golden in color
- Unlike Noon Chai or Gulabi Chai, Kahwa is light, fragrant, and spiced
- Does not contain milk, making it easier to digest
When to Drink It
- As a morning ritual
- Post-lunch for a digestion boost
- Anytime you need a calm, soothing break
How to Make Kahwa (The Easy Way)
Traditionally, Kashmiri Kehwa tea is prepared by simmering green tea leaves and spices on a stove. But life is busy, and no one has the time to actually sit and prepare the brew. But Kehwah makes it easy.
How to Make Kahwa in Seconds:
- Boil a cup of water.
- Pour it into your favorite mug.
- Stir in one Kehwah sachet.
- Sip and relax.
From your office desk to your couch at home, this version of Kesar Kahwa brings the same warmth and flavor in seconds.
Comparing the Teas
Each tea brings a different mood and benefit — some ideal for gut health, others for relaxation, and all rich in tradition.
Tea Type |
Flavor Profile |
Best Time to Drink |
Signature Ingredient |
Gulabi Chai |
Salty, creamy |
Post meals, when hungry |
Milk |
Kesar Kahwa |
Spiced, Floral |
Morning, evening, post-meal |
Saffron, almonds |
Kashmiri Kahwa |
Spiced, Floral |
Morning, evening, post-meal |
Green tea |
Where to Buy Authentic Kashmiri Tea
The authenticity of Kashmiri kehwa, or pink chai, lies in its ingredients. At Kehwah. in, you'll find a curated selection of blends that stick to traditional recipes and use only premium, natural ingredients.
Final Thoughts
From gulabi chai to kesar kahwa, the teas of Kashmir offer more than warmth — they offer connection, culture, and care in every cup. Whether you're drawn to the rich creaminess of pink chai or the golden clarity of kehwa Kashmir, there's a brew for every mood.
Try them, explore the flavours, and let your daily tea ritual transport you to the snow-dusted valleys of Kashmir.
Ready to experience the warmth you deserve? Browse our collection at Kehwah. in and discover your favourite today.