In Lucknow, Holi isn’t complete without a chilled glass of thandai in hand. And when it comes to this festive favourite, one name instantly comes to mind — Raja Thandai.
Established in 1936 by Pt. Shiva Dhar and now run by third-generation owner Raj Kumar Tripathi, Raja Thandai is more than just a shop — it is a piece of Lucknow’s cultural heritage. For decades, it has been the city’s go-to destination for authentic, rich and flavourful thandai during Holi and Shivratri.
Ask any local, and they’ll tell you about the legendary hari wali — the bhang-infused thandai that draws long queues every festive season. Prepared with full-fat milk, fennel seeds (saunf), cardamom, white pepper, saffron, rose water, sugar and a special mix of five seeds — watermelon, pumpkin, cucumber, kakdi and bottle gourd — the drink is generously topped with dry fruits.
The result? A creamy, aromatic blend that perfectly balances sweetness, spice and cooling flavours — ideal as winter fades and summer sets in.
Over the years, Raja Thandai has welcomed some of the country’s most prominent names, including former Prime Ministers Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
But beyond celebrity visits, what truly keeps the legacy alive is the unwavering love of Lucknowites. For many families, stopping by Raja Thandai before Holi celebrations is a ritual passed down through generations.
Thandai in Lucknow is not just about taste — it’s about tradition, togetherness and celebration. Rooted in Ayurveda, ingredients like fennel seeds and melon seeds are known for their cooling properties, making thandai the perfect festive drink as temperatures begin to rise.
Whether you prefer the classic dry fruit blend or the festive hari wali, one thing is certain — Holi in Lucknow feels incomplete without a visit to Raja Thandai.
For nearly 90 years, Raja Thandai has defined Holi celebrations in Lucknow. From its iconic bhang-infused hari wali to its rich dry fruit blends, the shop continues to be a beloved festive landmark. As colours fill the air this Holi, Lucknowites know exactly where to go for their most refreshing tradition — a glass of authentic Raja Thandai.