In a country like India, which has diverse religions and cultures, Biryani is not just a popular dish but a true celebration of flavors, culture, and culinary heritage.
Each region of this country has its distinct form of biryani with each of them telling their unique story through unique blend of spices, ingredients, and preparation methods.
This rice delicacy has become a beloved staple reflecting the diversity of Indian cuisine.
Let’s indulge in a flavourful journey & explore how different states across the country have put their signature dish into this iconic dish.
So without further adieu, let’s check out some of the biryani varieties in India!
Types of Biryani Found in India Across Different States
From Telangana
Hyderabadi Biryani
One of the most popular biryani varieties of all known for its rich aroma and bold taste due to the use of saffron and coconut.
It is prepared using the concept of the dum method (Slow cooking) which later gets layered with soft tender meat gravy and long-grain basmati rice.
It is available in 2 forms :-
- kacchi (raw meat)
- pakki (cooked meat)
Try it out by visiting our Hyderabadi biryani in Bangalore page!
| Cooking Style | Dum |
| Approx Cost | Rs. 150 to 1200 |
Kalyani Biryani
People also refer to it as “Poor man’s biryani” as it originates from the kitchens of Hyderabad’s lesser-known aristocrats.
A chef prepares it using beef and simple masalas.
This makes it affordable and beloved amongst locals.
| Cooking Style | Dum |
| Approx Cost | Rs. 200 to 2000 |
From West Bengal
Kolkata Biryani
Kolkata biryani dish is more of a subtle & aromatic variant getting influenced by Awadhi roots.
Unlike other Biryanis, this uses potatoes and boiled eggs, a legacy of the Nawab Wajid Ali Shah’s exile in the city.
It is less spicy, but the usage of saffron, herbs and the fragrance of the yellow rice makes up for it.
Try it out by visiting our Kolkata biryani in Bangalore page!
| Cooking Style | Dum |
| Approx Cost | Rs. 150 to 2500 |
From Uttar Pradesh
Lucknowi Biryani (Awadhi Biryani)
This refined and mildly spicy version hails from the royal courts of Lucknow and is prepared using the dum pukht technique in a sealed handi.
Priority is given to balance the flavor rather than the heat.
Meat and rice are slow cooked separately and then later layered together.
| Cooking Style | Dum |
| Approx Cost | Rs. 200 to 2500 |
Tehari Biryani
A yellow-hued and mildly spicy rice dish prepared using a combination of yogurt marinated chicken, turmeric, and fragrant basmati rice.
It is simpler to cook than the traditional biryani and is popular in Awadhi cuisine.
It is usually cooked in a single pot, giving it an earthy and home-style flavor.
| Cooking Style | Dum |
| Approx Cost | Rs. 120 to 1800 |
Moradabadi Biryani
It has got fiery taste and a street food charm to it due to the generous usage of Garam masala and
Moradabadi biryani is served with raita & onion salad, making it a hit amongst spice lovers crowd.
| Cooking Style | Dum |
| Approx Cost | Rs. 150 to 2000 |
From Tamil Nadu
Ambur Biryani
This dish is the specialty of the town Ambur, prepared using Seeraga samba rice along with either chicken, beef, prawn, or mutton marinated with curd, mint, and coriander chutney.
It is less greasy but has a sharp and peppery flavor to it.
It pairs well with brinjal curry or raita.
Try it out by visiting our Ambur biryani in Bangalore page!
| Cooking Style | Dum |
| Approx Cost | Rs. 150 to 2000 |
Dindigul Biryani
Just like Ambur biryani, Dindigul biryani is known for the usage of Seeraga samba rice, but what differentiates it is the use of lemon juice & curd giving it a tangy taste.
It is well known for having a strong, spicy profile.
| Cooking Style | Dum |
| Approx Cost | Rs. 150 to 2000 |
Chettinad Biryani
Chettinad biryani originates from the spice-rich Chettinad region.
The use of locally roasted spices like cumin seeds gives it an aromatic and fiery taste.
It is prepared using either chicken or mutton with a combination of coconut-based masalas.
| Cooking Style | Dum |
| Approx Cost | Rs. 200 to 2500 |
From Kerala
Thalassery Biryani
The use of Kaima rice (Short grain rice variety) for its preparation differentiates it from the other versions.
It has got the touch of Mughlai and Malabari to it.
This Malabar region special does not use any food coloring but the natural hues of spices are what make the dish shine.
Try it out by visiting our Malabar biryani in Bangalore page!
| Cooking Style | Dum |
| Approx Cost | Rs. 150 to 2000 |
Kozhikode Biryani
Kozhikode biryani is known for its sweet, rich, flavorful, and spicy profile.
Usage of ghee, raisins, and cashews does enhance its richness but the rice remains moist and tender.
| Cooking Style | Dum |
| Approx Cost | Rs. 150 to 2000 |
From Maharashtra
Bombay Biryani
Bombay biryani, typically prepared in a wok, has a complex recipe but a perfect mix of sweetness, tangy and spicy elements.
It is often layered using kewra water, fried potatoes, green chillies, dried plums, and aromatic spices.
It is enjoyed in the majority of Mumbai households, especially during festivals.
| Cooking Style | Dum |
| Approx Cost | Rs. 150 to 2000 |
From Karnataka
Donne Biryani
Donne biryani is famous, especially in the southern part.
It got its name due to the leaf bowl it gets served in.
The usage of jeera samba rice, bay leaves, coriander leaves, mentha leaves and green masala offers it a unique earthy flavor.
Try it out by visiting our donne biryani in Bangalore page!
| Cooking Style | Dum |
| Approx Cost | Rs. 150 to 2000 |
From Delhi (Union Territory)
Purani Delhi Biryani
This version of the dish is deeply rooted in old Delhi’s Mughlai heritage.
Rich mix of spices and charcoal is used for its preparation to give it a smoky flavor.
It is a staple on special occasions, especially during the festivals like Ramadan.
| Cooking Style | Dum |
| Approx Cost | Rs. 200 to 2500 |
Mughlai Biryani
It is believed to originate from the imperial kitchens of the Mughals.
This biryani is prepared using a combination of nuts, saffron, cream & dried fruits.
It represents the luxuriousness of medieval Indian cuisine.
| Cooking Style | Dum |
| Approx Cost | Rs. 300 to 3000 |
A Flavorful Wrap-Up of Indian Biryani Types
Middle eastern Biryani, Sindhi biryani and Memoni biryani are the other biryani variations but are less popular.
The spicy kitchens of South India and the royal influences of the North show how diverse the food culinary fabric of India is.
Yes, there might be differences in the spice levels, ingredients, and preparation styles but all share the same essence of comfort and tradition.
From the robustness of Hyderabadi biryani to the subtle elegance of Lucknowi, there is something for everyone to satisfy their palate.
Already Started craving some now? You are not alone.
Satisfy your craving by visiting our chicken biryani in Bangalore page!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many types of biryanis are there in India?
There are 25+ distinct biryanis in India, Each having different tastes and cooking methods.
Which biryani is famous in India?
Hyderabadi Biryani is the most famous one. The fragrant rice and dum cooking style played a crucial part in its popularity.
What is South Indian Biryani Called?
There are several regional varieties, and some examples include Hyderabadi biryani, Ambur biryani, Dindigul biryani, Thalassery biryani, and Bhatkali biryani(created by Nawayath muslims).
Which is the oldest biryani in India?
“Oon Soru” is said to be the oldest one. It has evidence from Tamil Sangam literature, dating back to the 2nd century BCE.
Which biryani is not spicy?
Lucknowi (Awadhi) Biryani is said to be the least spicy but is aromatic and fragrant.
Which biryani is best for a vegetarian or for those who follow veganism?
Mushroom or Jackfruit (kathal) biryani are the best ones.
