During spring, the hills of Uttarakhand turn red with beautiful Buransh flowers, also called Rhododendron arboreum. These bright red blossoms are not just known for their beauty, but also for their natural health benefits. For many mountain families, Buransh has been used for years to make a sweet and cooling drink called Buransh squash.
This drink is especially popular in summer as it helps cool the body, boosts energy, and is believed to support heart health. The juice is made from fresh Buransh petals, mixed with sugar and water, and then turned into a tasty squash that can be enjoyed at home.
In this blog, discover everything about its health benefits, a simple recipe to try, where to buy it in Uttarakhand, and how to get original Buransh squash online. For those visiting the hills, tasting this drink fresh from the source is a must.
What is Buransh Squash
It is a naturally sweet and tangy drink made by boiling and reducing the juice of Buransh flowers (Rhododendron arboreum) with sugar and water. It has a deep red color and a slightly floral taste that feels refreshing, especially during the hot summer months.
This squash is widely used in mountain homes as a cooling drink, often served to guests or offered during family gatherings. The preparation is simple, locals pick clean petals, boil them to extract juice, and then mix it with sugar to create a thick syrup. Once ready, it is stored in bottles and used for months. Just add cold water to a few spoonfuls of the syrup, and the drink is ready.
It is not just popular because of its taste. People in the hills trust it for its health benefits, such as cooling the body, boosting energy, and improving digestion. It’s also given to tired travelers and field workers to help them feel fresh again.
Today, many small mountain brands and women’s cooperatives prepare and sell it across Uttarakhand. While it was once made only at home, it’s now becoming a proud local product that’s reaching kitchens across India.
Health Benefits of Buransh Squash
Buransh squash is more than just a tasty summer drink it has been a trusted home remedy in the hills of Uttarakhand for generations. People here don’t just enjoy its flavor; they drink it because it helps them feel better, especially during the warmer months.
1. Keeps the Body Cool
Buransh squash works like a natural coolant. In many mountain homes, it is served in summer to keep the body temperature down. A chilled glass after coming back from the fields or a long walk helps you feel fresh and calm.
2. Supports Heart Health
Locals believe that Buransh has heart-friendly properties. It may help improve blood flow and reduce stress on the heart. Elderly people in the villages often sip it regularly, saying it makes them feel lighter and more active.
3. Full of Antioxidants
Buransh squash contains natural antioxidants, which help fight free radicals in the body. This may help strengthen immunity, protect against common infections, and reduce inflammation. That’s why it’s often given to people recovering from fever or weakness.
4. Beats Fatigue
Feeling low on energy? A glass of Buransh squash can quickly boost you. It is often offered to guests or workers returning from tiring journeys. Its slightly sweet, tangy taste gives a quick burst of energy without feeling heavy.
5. Gentle on the Stomach
Many locals say Buransh squash is easy to digest and can help with minor stomach discomfort. It is also sometimes mixed with lemon or mint water for added digestive benefits.
For the people of Uttarakhand, it is not just a seasonal treat—it’s a part of their everyday health care. Passed down through generations, this drink continues to offer both comfort and wellness in a single glass.
How to Make Buransh Squash at Home
It is easy to make at home if you have access to fresh rhododendron petals. In Uttarakhand, many families still prepare it in small batches using traditional methods passed down from elders. Here is a simple recipe you can follow:
1. Ingredients Needed
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fresh Buransh (rhododendron) petals
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4 cups of water
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1 cup of sugar (you can also use jaggery for a healthier option)
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1 teaspoon of lemon juice (optional, for a slight tangy taste)
2. Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Rinse the petals thoroughly under clean running water to remove any dust or insects.
2. Boil 4 cups of water in a deep pan and add the petals. Let them boil on low heat for 20–30 minutes. The water will slowly turn deep red and fragrant.
3. Strain the boiled mixture using a fine sieve or clean cloth to remove all the petals. You should be left with a clear, red-colored liquid.
4. Add sugar or jaggery to the liquid and boil it again for 15–20 minutes until it thickens slightly into a syrup.
5. Allow the syrup to cool completely. Add lemon juice if you want a slightly tangy taste.
6. Pour the squash into clean, dry glass bottles. Store them in a cool, dry place or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
3. How to Serve
To enjoy, mix 2–3 tablespoons of the squash in a glass of cold water. Stir well and add ice if you like. It is a refreshing, natural drink, perfect for hot summer days or when you need an energy boost.
Where to Buy Buransh Squash in Uttarakhand
When traveling through Uttarakhand, Buransh squash is widely available at local markets, village stores, and government-supported outlets. Some reliable places to find it include:
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Pahadi Organic Stores – Located in towns like Nainital, Almora, and Ranikhet.
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Himjoli Outlets – Found in Mukteshwar and other popular tourist areas.
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Village Cooperatives – Many rural communities in Chamoli, Uttarkashi, and Tehri produce and sell homemade Buransh squash.
Always check the packaging for the date of manufacture, as freshly made squash offers the best flavor and quality.
Where to Buy Buransh Squash Online
If you’re not currently in the mountains, you can still enjoy Buransh squash by ordering it online. Here are some reliable platforms:
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Himalayan Haat – Offers handcrafted Buransh squash made with natural ingredients.
Experience the Real Taste with WanderSky
If you want to experience Buransh squash at its freshest, WanderSky offers immersive Uttarakhand tours where you can:
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Visit traditional mountain villages.
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Witness the local method of collecting and preparing Buransh petals.
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Learn to make squash directly from a village family.
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Enjoy the drink along with authentic Kumaoni or Garhwali meals.
This unique experience lets you taste Buransh squash in its purest, most authentic form—right where it’s made.
Conclusion | A True Taste of the Himalayas
Buransh squash is not just a refreshing drink—it’s a reflection of the Himalayan lifestyle and the natural wellness traditions of Uttarakhand. Made from handpicked rhododendron petals, it carries both health benefits and a deep cultural value. Whether enjoyed at home or in the hills, Buransh squash offers a simple yet special way to connect with the purity of the mountains.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Buransh squash made from?
It is made from the fresh red petals of the Buransh flower (Rhododendron arboreum), sugar or jaggery, and water.
2. Is Buransh squash safe for children?
Yes, it is a mild, natural drink and is generally safe for children in small amounts.
3. Can I carry Buransh squash on a flight?
Yes, you can pack sealed it bottles in your check-in luggage. Make sure the bottles are tightly sealed to avoid leaks.
4. How long does Buransh squash stay fresh?
Properly bottled it usually stays fresh for 3 to 6 months when stored in a cool, dry place.
5. Is Buransh squash the same as Rhododendron juice?
Yes, it is simply another name for Rhododendron juice. “Buransh” is the local name in Uttarakhand.
6. Where can I buy pure Buransh squash online?
You can order authentic Buransh squash online from trusted sellers like Himalayan Haat, Himjoli, or Kumaon Aanchal.
7. Can I make Buransh squash at home?
Yes! With fresh Buransh flowers, sugar, and water, you can easily make your own Buransh squash at home using a simple recipe.
