Top 10 Rice Varieties in India: Key Features and Characteristics

Table of Content

• Overview of Rice Cultivation in India
• What are the Top 10 Rice Varieties Grown in India?
  • Basmati Rice
  • Ambemohar Rice
  • Kalanamak Rice
  • Navara Rice
  • Joha Rice
  • Pallakadan Matta Rice
  • Pokkali Rice
  • Sona Masuri Rice
  • Seeraga Samba Rice
  • Ponni Rice
• Key Takeaways

Overview of Rice Cultivation in India

India is the largest producer of rice after China. In 2025, rice production reached a record production milestone of 150.18 million tonnes. Rice cultivation in India is done in humid, tropical, and subtropical regions, including the coastal regions and Gangetic Plains. The major rice-producing states are Telangana, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. 

Rice is a major Kharif crop and is the most common staple food in India, with rice contributing more than 50% to the per capita consumption of cereals. All this has been mainly possible due to the cultivation of more than 50 varieties of rice in India.

India is also the largest rice exporter in the world. The exports of rice are witnessing an increasing trend both in terms of volume and value. India exports both basmati and non-basmati varieties. Even though exports of non-basmati rice dominate, basmati rice exports offer an extremely high and growing value. Around 60,65,483 MT of basmati rice were exported in 2024-25.

What are the Top 10 Rice Varieties Grown in India?

Numerous rice varieties are cultivated in India, with some varieties becoming popular over time because of their distinct flavours. The top 10 rice varieties in India are:

Basmati Rice

Basmati rice is primarily grown in the Himalayan foothills and is often referred to as the "King of Rice". It is the best rice and the oldest variety in India. Basmati is a staple in biryanis and other rice dishes because of its long grains, delicate aroma, and fluffy texture. Its global recognition and unique qualities have earned it a Geographical Indication status, ensuring that only rice grown in specific regions can bear the popular Basmati name. Punjab cultivates the majority of the country's total basmati rice.

Ambemohar Rice

Ambemohar means mango blossom in Marathi. It is a fragrant rice variety that originates from Maharashtra. This rice variety is famous for its distinct aroma reminiscent of mango blossoms and is often used in traditional Maharashtrian sweets and biryanis. It is one of the best aromatic rice varieties in India. The small grains and unique fragrances make Ambemohar a favourite among authorities looking for a delightful sensory experience.

Kalanamak Rice

Kalanamak rice is famous for its aromatic, long grains and unique black husk. It is widely grown in the Terai plains of Uttar Pradesh. This rice variety is often referred to as "Buddha Rice", “Forbidden rice”, or ”Emperor’s Rice”. It is rich in nutrients and has a rice nutty flavour. It is an important ingredient in the region's pulaos and biryanis. The rarity and exquisite taste of Kalanamak rice have made it a Geographical Indication (GI) product.

Navara Rice

Navara rice is a traditional and medicinal variety widely grown in the southern state of Kerala. It is famous for its red grains and distinct earthy flavour and is often used in Ayurvedic preparations. That is the reason it is called "rice that cures." This rice variety is believed to have therapeutic properties and is used to make nutritious gruel called "Karkidaka Kanji." It showcases the range of Indian rice in taste and in its cultural significance. India mainly exports Navara rice to the UAE, Qatar, and Oman.

Joha Rice

Joha is a short-grain rice widely known for its sweet fragrance, high antioxidants, and tender texture. This rice variety has short to medium grains with a natural, sweet fragrance. It is widely grown in the northeastern state of India, Assam. Joha rice is often used in Assamese sweets and pulaos, and it is a local favourite. In 2017, it was awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

Pallakadan Matta Rice

This rice variety is also called Kerala Red rice or Rosematta Rice. It is a staple food in Kerala households. It is a nutritional powerhouse, which is described by its reddish-brown colour and nutty flavour. It is a rich source of fibre and antioxidants and a popular choice for those looking for a healthier eating option. This rice variety is an important ingredient in traditional Kerala dishes because of its unique colour and taste. It is widely exported to nations like the USA and the UAE.

Pokkali Rice

Pokkali Rice is an eco-friendly and saline-tolerant variety of rice, widely known as ‘Clever Man's Rice’. This rice variety is grown in the coastal regions of Kerala and has been cultivated for more than 3000 years in an organic manner. Its ability to thrive in brackish water makes it suitable for areas with high salinity. It is used in traditional dishes such as Nei Choru (ghee rice).

Sona Masuri Rice

Sona Masuri is a medium-grain rice variety, grown in the southern states, including Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Sona Masuri is a popular choice for everyday cooking because of its aromatic fragrance and fluffy texture. It is quite common in South Indian kitchens and can be consumed with a wide range of dishes. It is a reliable and flavourful option because of its versatility and ease of cooking.

Seeraga Samba Rice

This rice variety is famous for its small, rough structure and unique fragrance. It is widely cultivated in the areas of Tamil Nadu. The word Seeraga means jeera or cumin, which highlights the unique aroma of this rice variety. It is commonly used in making biryanis and gives the dish a delicious flavour.

Ponni Rice

Ponni is a medium-grain variety of rice famous for its fluffy texture as well as its ability to absorb flavours. This rice variety has a golden hue and is high in fiber and low in fat. It is cultivated in the fertile plains of Tamil Nadu. It is widely consumed in Southern India and used in making dishes like dosas and idlis. Ponni rice is highly preferred for a wide range of health benefits, which are not found in polished white rice.

Key Takeaways

India, with its tropical climate and vast irrigation availability, is ideal for the cultivation of a wide range of rice varieties. Basmati rice is the most popular variety in the country. The other popular varieties are Ambemohar, Sona Masuri, Kala Namak, and Navara rice. So, have you tasted any of these rice varieties? Make one of these rice varieties a part of your everyday meal!