India, one of the largest producers and consumers of rice, offers a rich variety of this staple grain. Indian rice varieties range from aromatic basmati to nutrient-rich black rice, reflecting the country’s diverse agricultural landscapes and culinary traditions. Ever wondered how many types of rice in India are available for cooking, health, and export? India grows over 6,000 varieties, but about 15–20 dominate the market.
You can make healthier choices and tap into market potential by understanding the different types of rice in India, whether you’re a home cook, restaurateur, or exporter. In addition, this guide highlights India’s position as one of the top 10 rice producing states and as one of the top rice exporting countries globally.
Here’s a complete table to name types of rice in India, their grain characteristics, and regional use.
| Rice Variety | Grain Type | Region | Key Features | Common Dishes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basmati Rice | Long Grain | Punjab, Haryana | Aromatic, fluffy, premium | Biryani, Pulao, Kheer |
| Sona Masoori Rice | Medium Grain | Andhra, Telangana | Light, soft, low starch | Daily meals, Pongal |
| Kolam Rice | Medium Grain | Maharashtra, Gujarat | Affordable, mild flavor | Fried Rice, Pulao |
| Parboiled Rice | Long/Medium | Tamil Nadu, Kerala | Yellowish hue, high nutrients | Idli, Dosa batter |
| Red Rice | Whole Grain | Kerala, Tamil Nadu | High fiber, reddish color | Kerala meals, Salads |
| Black Rice | Whole Grain | Manipur, Tamil Nadu | Antioxidants, dark color | Desserts, Special dishes |
| Gobindobhog Rice | Short Grain | West Bengal | Fragrant, sticky | Khichdi, Bengali dishes |
| Matta (Kerala Red) | Medium Grain | Kerala | Nutty flavor, dense texture | Sambar rice, Daily meals |
| Indrayani Rice | Short Grain | Maharashtra | Fragrant, sticky when cooked | Everyday meals |
| Jeera Samba Rice | Short Grain | Tamil Nadu | Fine grain, subtle aroma | Tamil Biryani, Pongal |
Basmati is perhaps the most popular rice variety in India. Known for its extra-long grains and delightful aroma, it’s commonly used in biryanis, pulaos, and festive meals.
Key Features:
Popular Dishes: Biryani, Pulao, Kheer
Sona Masoori is a medium-grain rice commonly grown in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka. It is lighter and less starchy than many other varieties, making it ideal for daily consumption.
Key Features:
Popular Dishes: Pongal, Idli, Dosa
Kolam rice is another medium-grain variety cultivated in Maharashtra and Gujarat. It’s an economical choice for households and food services.
Key Features:
Popular Dishes: Fried rice, Plain steamed rice, Pulao
Parboiled rice, also called converted rice, is partially boiled in the husk to preserve nutrients. It is widely used in South India due to its health benefits.
Key Features:
Popular Dishes: South Indian thalis, Idli/Dosa batter, Everyday meals
Red rice gets its reddish color from anthocyanins, which have antioxidant properties. It’s a whole grain that supports heart and digestive health.
Key Features:
Popular Dishes: Kerala-style rice dishes, Salads, Health-focused meals
Known as “forbidden rice,” black rice is rich in antioxidants and minerals. It has a dark purple hue and is used in both savory and sweet recipes.
Key Features:
Popular Dishes: Pudding, Salads, Fusion cuisine
Gobindobhog is a short-grain aromatic rice variety from West Bengal. It’s cherished for its buttery aroma and soft, sticky texture.
Key Features:
Popular Dishes: Bengali khichuri, Payesh (rice pudding), Pulao
Matta rice, also known as Kerala red rice, is parboiled and offers a bold, earthy flavor. It’s rich in fiber and commonly paired with South Indian curries.
Key Features:
Popular Dishes: Sambar rice, South Indian meals
Indrayani rice is a short-grain, aromatic rice grown in the Western Ghats. It’s favored for its unique fragrance and soft texture.
Key Features:
Popular Dishes: Khichdi, Varan-bhaat
Jeera Samba rice is a short-grain variety with a slight resemblance to cumin seeds. It’s a premium choice for biryanis in Tamil Nadu.
Key Features:
Popular Dishes: Tamil Nadu biryanis, Traditional rice dishes
Shah Enterprises is a premium rice exporter from India, specializing in top-quality basmati and non-basmati rice. Furthermore, we have a strong presence in international markets and are committed to providing quality service to clients across the globe.
Furthermore, Shah Enterprises is your reliable partner if you are looking for the best rice in India for domestic use or international trade.
India’s diverse climatic zones and agricultural heritage have created a vast range of rice varieties that cater to different tastes, regions, and health goals. From long-grain basmati to heritage grains like red and black rice, Indian rice is not just food, it’s tradition, health, and global trade wrapped in one.
Furthermore, choosing the right rice can enhance your meal and help you achieve your wellness goals. Whether you’re a chef, a homemaker, or a food trader, understanding these rice types helps you make better decisions.
For export-quality Indian rice, partner with Shah Enterprises, where quality meets tradition and helps establish India among the top rice exporting countries.
Get in touch with Shah Enterprises for top-quality rice exports. Bulk orders, custom packaging & global shipping available.
India has more than 6,000 rice varieties, but about 15 to 20 are commonly used for cooking and export purposes.
Popular types include Basmati, Sona Masoori, Kolam, Parboiled, Red Rice, Black Rice, Gobindobhog, Jeera Samba, and more.
Black rice, red rice, and brown basmati are considered the healthiest due to their high fiber and antioxidant content.
Basmati rice (especially 1121 and 1509 varieties) is the most exported rice from India to over 100 countries.
You can source it from trusted exporters like Shah Enterprises, known for quality, packaging, and global distribution.
Basmati rice, especially the 1121 and traditional types, is considered the best due to its aroma, length, and global export demand.
Popular Indian rice types include Basmati, Sona Masoori, Kolam, Parboiled, Red, Black, Gobindobhog, Matta (Kerala Red), Indrayani, and Jeera Samba.
India’s most aromatic rice includes Traditional Basmati, 1121, 1401, 1509, Jeera Samba, Gobindobhog, Indrayani, Kali Jeera, Mogra, and Dubraj.
1121 Basmati Rice holds the record for the longest grain, stretching over 8.4 mm after cooking.
Black rice is considered the healthiest due to its antioxidant content, while red and brown rice are also high in fiber and great for weight loss.
