Known as the “King of Fruits” in South Asia, mangoes are one of those things that almost all Pakistanis look forward to year-round! The arrival of summer in Pakistan also signals the arrival of mangoes. As Pakistan is one of the biggest mango producers in the world and hundreds of varieties are grown in the country, it is necessary to identify the most popular mango varieties in Pakistan which are the most consumed and loved by the people.

Different types of mangoes in Pakistan

While summer often boils down to foods that help fight the heat and keep you cool, mangoes hold a special place in the hearts of Pakistanis everywhere, which is why they are exported all over the world. “Pakistan has the perfect climate and soil conditions to grow mangoes on a commercial scale in southern Punjab and these conditions are two of the many reasons why Pakistani mangoes are popular around the world. The heavenly fruit can be peeled and eaten raw once ripe, mashed into desserts and salads, blended into smoothies and mango lassi, or even pickled before ripe to make mango pickles, or aam ka achar. Crushed mango is also used to make a sour and sweet murabba that can be eaten with meals during the mango season.

Some of the most popular mango varieties in Pakistan are:

• Langra
• Chaunsa
• Anwer Ratol
• Sindhri
• Dussehri

Let us discuss in detail below this list of mangoes available in Pakistan.

Langra: The Refreshing Choice in Pakistani Mangoes

Langra, known for its refreshing qualities, offers a delightful change from the intensely sweet varieties of Pakistan. This oval-shaped fruit features a vivid green skin that transitions to a golden yellow hue upon ripening. This mango variety was probably first cultivated in Varanasi, also known as Banaras, in northern India. No one knows why the mango became known as langra or lame, but many local stories claim that the tree’s owner himself was lame, and that’s why this circumstance gave the mango its name.

The main reason why Langra sets it apart from all other mango varieties is that it retains its green color even after ripening, while other mangoes acquire a reddish-yellow color. Langras meat is fibrous, yellowish-brown and has a strong odor when ripe. The skin is fragile, and this mango is only available as a medium-sized fruit with a small, oval seed.

It usually hits the market from mid-June to August and is the ideal variety for pickling and canning, while flavor Depending on the ripeness of the fruit, it can range from extremely sweet to bitterly sour.

Experience its refreshing appeal:

• Balanced Sweetness: Langra boasts a moderate sweetness that is neither overwhelming nor bland, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer a more delicate flavor.
• Tartness: The fruit possesses a subtle tartness that perfectly complements its sweetness, creating a refreshing and well-rounded taste.
• Texture: The flesh is firm and fibrous, offering a satisfying bite and a juicy, invigorating experience.

Reasons to enjoy Langra:

• Heatwave Hero: Langra’s refreshing qualities make it a perfect choice to combat the summer heat in Pakistan.
• Versatility Beyond Freshness: While delicious fresh, Langra also excels in juices, sherbets, and pickles, offering various ways to enjoy its unique flavor.
• Long Shelf Life: Compared to other varieties, Langra boasts a slightly longer shelf life, making it easier to store and enjoy for a longer period.

Anwar Ratol : A Jewel of Pakistani Mangoes

Anwar Ratol, a jewel in the crown of Pakistani mangoes, is renowned for its unique sweetness and captivating aroma. This oval-shaped fruit features a vibrant green skin that ripens to a golden yellow hue. This mango owes its existence to Anwar-ul-Haq, who is said to have been the first to cultivate this variety of mango in a village called Rataul near Baghpat district in Uttar Pradesh, India. Found primarily in Pakistan’s Punjab province, Anwar Ratol has a distinct sweet taste and fragrance with fiber-free pulp.

Due to high demand, it is hitting the market in two bursts, once at the beginning, for a very short period the mango season from May to June, when it is thin-skinned but incredibly sweet, and then from July to August, when it has a relatively thicker rind, but it tastes less sweet.

Anwar Ratol mango was originally grown in Rahim Yar Khan and Multan, but according to legend, it was given the current name of Sher Shah Suri after he defeated Mughal Emperor Humayun in Chausa, a district of Bihar, India. This sleeve was a favorite of the founder of the Suri empire.

Experience its captivating characteristics:

• Sweetness: Anwar Ratol boasts an intense sweetness that lingers on the palate, making it a true delight for sweet tooths.
• Aroma: The fruit is known for its distinctive, floral aroma, reminiscent of roses and jasmine.
• Texture: The flesh is firm and fibrous, offering a satisfying bite and a refreshing juiciness.

Reasons to love Anwar Ratol:

• Early Season Delight: Unlike other varieties, Anwar Ratol arrives early in the season, typically available from mid-June to mid-July.
• Rich in Nutrients: This mango is packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, making it a healthy and delicious choice.
• Multiple Enjoyment Methods: Savor Anwar Ratol fresh, use it in fruit salads, or dry it to create a flavorful chutney.

Chaunsa : The King of Pakistani Mangoes

Chaunsa, also known as the King of Mangoes, reigns supreme in the hearts of Pakistani mango enthusiasts. This exquisite fruit boasts a golden yellow hue, an oblong shape, and a luscious, creamy flesh. Unlike other mangoes, Chaunsa exudes a subtle, honey-like aroma.

Chaunsa is also one of the most popular mango varieties around the world because it is exceptionally sweet and juicy. You can simply soften the meat on the outside by squeezing the skin inwards with your thumbs, before removing the mango eye that connects it to the stem to taste the delicious juice. It doesn’t get any fresher than that! The deliciously soft mango has a wonderful fragrance, minimal fiber and a thick stone in the center with light yellow flesh. Its ripening season is from June to August and pleases the taste buds in Pakistan and around the world until late September when no other mango varieties are available.

The Chaunsa mango has four types:

• Summer Chaunsa is the most common type of chaunsa mango and is released in early July.
• Black Chaunsa is sweet and contains fiber and arrive after mid-July.
• White Chaunsa aka Nawab Puri has a mild flavor, longer shelf life and is exported.
• Azeem Chaunsa has the longest lifespan and is shorter in size as compared to the other chaunsa varieties.

Indulge in its unique taste:

• Sweetness: Chaunsa delivers a perfectly balanced sweetness, free from the overwhelming tartness of some varieties.
• Flavor: The fruit boasts a rich, complex flavor profile with hints of honey, melon, and citrus.
• Texture: The flesh is exceptionally smooth and creamy, melting in your mouth with every bite.

Why choose Chaunsa?

• Limited Seasonality: Adding to its allure, Chaunsa has a relatively short season, typically available from mid-July to mid-August, making it a highly sought-after delicacy.
• High Demand: Due to its superior quality and limited availability, Chaunsa often commands a premium price, making it a luxury treat.
• Versatility: Enjoy Chaunsa fresh, use it in desserts like ice cream or smoothies, or savor it pickled for a unique tangy experience.

Sindhri : The Quintessential Pakistani Mango

Sindhri, a crown jewel in the realm of Pakistani mangoes, stands tall with its luscious sweetness and alluring fragrance. This mango variety boasts a large, ovular shape, showcasing a radiant green exterior that transforms into a sun-kissed yellow as it ripens. Originating from the Sindh region, particularly in Mirpur Khas, Sindhri mangoes have become synonymous with the essence of summer in Pakistan.

The legacy of Sindhri traces back to the fertile lands of Sindh, where it was cultivated to perfection. Known for its large size, vibrant color, and succulent taste, Sindhri mangoes are characterized by their fiber-free, melt-in-your-mouth pulp. The peak of their season graces us from April to June, offering a delectable treat that embodies the true spirit of Pakistani mangoes.

Embrace its classic character:

• Sweetness: Sindhri delivers a powerful sweetness that satisfies even the most discerning palate.
• Flavor: The fruit boasts a unique flavor profile with hints of honey, pineapple, and mango, culminating in a complex and satisfying experience.
• Texture: The flesh is moderately firm and juicy, offering a delightful balance between chewiness and refreshment.

Why choose Sindhri?

• Widely Available: Compared to other varieties, Sindhri boasts a longer season, typically available from mid-July to September, making it accessible to a broader audience.
• Culinary Versatility: This mango is perfect for enjoying fresh, but also shines in desserts like cakes and puddings, or in savory chutneys for an unexpected twist.
• Rich in Tradition: Sindhri holds a special place in Pakistani culture, often used in traditional celebrations and considered a symbol of hospitality and generosity.

Dussehri : The Sweet & Juicy Delight of Pakistan

Dussehri, another gem in Pakistan’s mango treasury, entices with its irresistible sweetness and aromatic allure. This medium-sized mango variety showcases a modest, ovular form with a distinct yellowish-green skin. Grown primarily in the regions of Multan and Lucknow, Dussehri mangoes hold a special place in the hearts of mango enthusiasts.

The roots of Dussehri can be traced back to the orchards of Lucknow, where it flourished under careful cultivation. Celebrated for its juicy, fiber-free pulp, Dussehri mangoes make their grand entrance into the market from June to August. During this period, they are not just a fruit; they are a delightful celebration of summer, offering a burst of tropical flavor and a lingering fragrance that captures the essence of the season.

Savor its sweetness and juiciness:

• Sweetness: Dussehri delivers a pronounced sweetness that is balanced and enjoyable, leaving a lingering sweetness on the palate.
• Juiciness: The fruit boasts an exceptionally juicy flesh, bursting with flavor in every bite, making it a hydrating and refreshing treat.
• Texture: The flesh is soft and smooth, offering a melting-in-your-mouth experience that is truly delectable.

Why choose Dussehri?

• Mid-Season Availability: Dussehri arrives in the mid-season, typically available from late July to mid-August, offering a taste of summer just as the peak heat subsides.
• Perfect for Gifting: Dussehri’s appealing appearance, sweetness, and juiciness make it a popular choice for gifting during celebrations and special occasions.
• Excellent Source of Vitamin A: This mango is a rich source of Vitamin A, contributing to healthy vision and overall well being.