Types of Rice in India – 15+ Popular Indian Rice Varieties Explained

Rice is more than just a staple in India—it's deeply woven into the culture, traditions, and daily meals across the country. From grand feasts to humble offerings in temples, rice holds a sacred place in every Indian household. With its rich biodiversity and diverse climates, India is home to thousands of unique types of rice in India grown across different regions. If you're looking to explore or buy premium Indian rice varieties in bulk, check out our top selections sourced directly from trusted suppliers.

How Many Types of Rice in India?

India is home to over 6000 traditional and hybrid rice varieties, making it one of the most diverse rice-producing countries in the world. However, for culinary and commercial use, about 30 to 50 rice types are commonly grown, consumed, and exported.

Each type of Indian rice is unique in taste, grain shape, aroma, and nutritional profile. From long-grain aromatic Basmati for biryanis to sticky Gobindobhog used in kheer, every variety serves a unique purpose in Indian cuisine and tradition.

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Why So Many Varieties?

India’s diverse agro - climatic zones—from the Himalayan foothills to coastal plains and tribal forests—allow farmers to grow rice suited to each microclimate.

These rice types are also tied to

1. Local culture and religious practices

2. Traditional diets (like South Indian idli/dosa, North Indian biryani, Eastern khichdi)

3. Health preferences (fiber-rich red and black rice)

Top 15+ Popular Types of Rice in India

Here’s the list of different types of rice in India that are used in daily meals, religious rituals, exports, and even traditional medicine.

1. Basmati Rice

1. Region: Punjab, Haryana, UP

2. Type: Long grain, aromatic

3. Use: Biryani, pulao, fried rice

4. Note: GI-tagged; major export variety of India

2. Pusa Basmati (1121 & 1509)

1. Region: Punjab & Haryana

2. Type: Extra-long grains

3. Use: Export-grade biryani rice

4. Note: Superior elongation, used in high-end global cuisine

3. Sona Masoori

1. Region: Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana

2. Type: Medium grain, low starch

3. Use: South Indian meals, sambar-rice

4. Note: Soft and aromatic, perfect for daily consumption

4. Kolam Rice

1. Region: Maharashtra, Gujarat

2. Type: Short grain, non-aromatic

3. Use: Regular cooking

4. Note: Economical and soft, easy to digest

5. Jeera Samba

1. Region: Tamil Nadu

2. Type: Small grain, aromatic

3. Use: Tamil Nadu style biryani

4. Note: Has a nutty, earthy aroma

6. Gobindobhog Rice

1. Region: West Bengal

2. Type: Sticky, short grain

3. Use: Bhog, kheer, khichuri

4. Note: Sacred rice used in temples; high aroma

7. Matta Rice (Kerala Red Rice)

1. Region: Kerala

2. Type: Medium, red color

3. Use: Steamed rice with curries

4. Note: Rich in fiber, magnesium; used by Kerala households daily

8. Ponni Rice

1. Region: Tamil Nadu

2. Type: Medium grain

3. Use: Idli, dosa, daily rice

4. Note: Soft when cooked, blends well with sambar

9. Chak Hao (Black Rice)

1. Region: Manipur (North-East)

2. Type: Short grain, black-purple

3. Use: Desserts, porridges

4. Note: Known as the "Forbidden Rice" of India; packed with antioxidants

10. Bhutanese Red Rice

1. Region: Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim

2. Type: Reddish hue

3. Use: Steamed rice

4. Note: Organic, often grown in Himalayan waters

11. Bamboo Rice (Moongil Arisi)

1. Region: Tribal areas of Kerala, Odisha, Chhattisgarh

2. Type: Fat, chewy grain

3. Use: Special Ayurvedic diet

4. Note: Harvested once in 40 years when bamboo flowers

12. Indrayani Rice

1. Region: Maharashtra

2. Type: Aromatic, medium grain

3. Use: Dal-rice, pulao

4. Note: Sticky texture; popular in Pune region

13. Kalanamak Rice

1. Region: Uttar Pradesh

2. Type: Short grain, black husk

3. Use: Premium rice for digestion

4. Note: Ancient variety known for fragrance & Ayurveda uses

14. Ambemohar Rice

1. Region: Maharashtra

2. Type: Short grain, mango-blossom aroma

3. Use: Pulao, sweet dishes

4. Note: Prized for its unique aroma and softness

15. Joha Rice

1. Region: Assam

2. Type: Aromatic, short grain

3. Use: Pulao, sweets, khichdi

4. Note: Traditional Assamese rice with GI status

India’s Rice Export & Global Demand

India is the world’s largest exporter of rice, especially

1. Basmati Rice to Middle East, USA, and Europe

2. Non-Basmati (IR64, Sona Masoori) to Africa and Southeast Asia

Top export states: Haryana, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal

If you’re in the export business, knowing the types of rice in India for export can help you reach the right buyers.

Region-Wise Types of Rice in India – Popular Varieties by State

India’s geographical diversity gives rise to a wide range of rice varieties unique to each region. Whether it’s the aromatic Basmati of North India, the soft Sona Masoori from the South, or the nutrient-rich black rice of the Northeast, each region has something special to offer.

Region	Popular Rice Varieties
North India	Basmati, Pusa Basmati, Sharbati
South India	Sona Masoori, Jeera Samba, Ponni, Matta
East India	Gobindobhog, Kalajeera
West India	Kolam, Ambemohar
Northeast India	Black Rice, Joha Rice

Health Benefits of Different Rice Types

Rice Type	Health Benefit
Brown Rice	Good for digestion, weight loss
Red Rice	Boosts immunity, iron-rich
Black Rice	Anti-aging, good for skin
Sona Masoori	Low GI (Glycemic Index)
Matta Rice	Improves gut health

Which Rice to Choose? Use-Based Guide

Use Case	Best Rice
Biryani	Basmati, Jeera Samba
Daily Meals	Kolam, Sona Masoori
Health / Weight Loss	Brown Rice, Red Rice
Export	Basmati 1121, IR64
Desserts	Gobindobhog, Black Rice

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Conclusion

India’s rice legacy is vast and deeply rooted in its soil, festivals, and food traditions. From spicy biryanis and comforting khichdi to sweet kheer, rice plays a vital role on every Indian plate.

By understanding the types of rice in India, you not only choose the right grain for your meals but also gain insight into the rich agricultural and cultural heritage that makes each variety unique.

FAQs – Types of Rice in India

Which rice is best for daily use in India?

Sona Masoori and Kolam are soft, light, and ideal for daily meals across Indian households.

What is the healthiest rice in India?

Brown, red, and black rice are the healthiest due to high fiber and antioxidant content.

How many types of rice are there in India?

India has over 6000 rice varieties, but 30–50 are commonly grown, consumed, and exported.