Introduction: The Global Story of Mango A Fruit with Ancient Roots and Endless Varieties
The mango is more than just a delicious summer fruit it is a cultural icon, a symbol of love and prosperity, and a tropical treasure that has traveled across centuries and continents. Known as the “King of Fruits,” the mango boasts over 1,000 varieties grown in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
From the sacred groves of ancient India, where mangoes were first cultivated over 4,000 years ago, to the modern orchards of Mexico, Florida, and the Philippines, this juicy fruit has captured hearts and taste buds globally.
In this article, we explore the most famous types of mango, their origins, characteristics, and why some are considered the best mangoes in the world.
The Origin of Mango: Where Did the Mango Come From?
Mangoes have their roots in South Asia, particularly in what is now India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. Historical references to mangoes date back to 2000 BCE in Indian literature and religious texts. The fruit held symbolic significance in Hinduism and Buddhism, often associated with peace, prosperity, and eternal life.
From India, mango cultivation spread to Southeast Asia, East Africa, and eventually to the Americas and the Caribbean, thanks to Persian, Arab, and later Portuguese explorers and traders.
Today, mangoes are cultivated in over 100 countries, but India remains the largest producer, followed by China, Thailand, Mexico, and Indonesia.
Top Mango Varieties from India: The Land of Legendary Mangoes
India is home to hundreds of unique mango types, many of which are exported globally. These mangoes are often named after the regions where they grow.
1. Alphonso (Hapus) – Maharashtra
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Region: Ratnagiri, Devgad
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Flavor: Rich, creamy, honey-sweet
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Color: Golden-yellow with red blush
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Texture: Smooth, non-fibrous
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Season: April to June
Alphonso is often considered the best mango in the world for its unmatched aroma and taste. It’s a premium export product.
2. Kesar – Gujarat
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Region: Girnar Hills
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Flavor: Sweet with a saffron-like fragrance
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Color: Bright orange pulp
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Season: May to July
Nicknamed the “Queen of Mangoes,” Kesar is popular in desserts like aamras and mango shrikhand.
3. Dasheri – Uttar Pradesh
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Region: Malihabad, Lucknow
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Flavor: Mild, sweet, aromatic
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Texture: Slightly fibrous
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Season: June to August
Dasheri mangoes are often used in juices, shakes, and fresh eating.
4. Langra – Bihar and Eastern UP
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Region: Varanasi, Patna
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Flavor: Strong, tangy, and aromatic
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Color: Greenish even when ripe
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Season: July to August
Langra is known for its bold taste and loyal fan base in North India.
5. Banganapalli (Benishan) – Andhra Pradesh
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Region: Banganapalle
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Flavor: Sweet and tangy
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Color: Bright yellow
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Texture: Medium fiber
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Season: April to June
Banganapalli mangoes have a long shelf life, making them perfect for export.
6. Totapuri – South India
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Region: Karnataka, Tamil Nadu
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Flavor: Tart, less sweet
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Shape: Beak-like tip (hence “parrot beak”)
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Season: May to July
Totapuri is widely used in pickles, pulp, and processed mango products.
Famous International Mango Varieties: A Global Fruit in Local Forms
7. Ataulfo (Honey Mango) – Mexico
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Flavor: Sweet, buttery, and creamy
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Size: Small, kidney-shaped
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Texture: Non-fibrous
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Season: March to July
Ataulfo mangoes are ideal for smoothies and salads due to their silky texture.
8. Tommy Atkins – USA (Florida)
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Flavor: Mild sweetness
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Color: Red and green skin
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Texture: Fibrous
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Season: March to July
Tommy Atkins is the most widely grown mango in the United States, known for its long shelf life and transportability.
9. Kent – Ecuador, Peru, Mexico
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Flavor: Rich and sweet
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Texture: Smooth, low fiber
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Color: Greenish-yellow
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Season: January to August
Kent mangoes are favored for their juiciness and size, often sold in supermarkets worldwide.
10. Haden – Florida, USA
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Flavor: Sweet with a hint of spice
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Texture: Moderately fibrous
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Color: Bright red with green and yellow
Developed in the early 20th century, Haden was one of the first mangoes cultivated commercially in the US.
11. Carabao (Philippine Mango) – Philippines
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Flavor: Intensely sweet and fragrant
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Texture: Silky smooth
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Color: Pale yellow
Carabao is officially recognized as the world’s sweetest mango by the Guinness World Records.
Mango Varieties at a Glance: Quick Comparison Table
| Mango Variety | Country | Flavor | Texture | Notable For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alphonso | India | Creamy & sweet | Non-fibrous | Richest flavor, top export |
| Kesar | India | Sweet, fragrant | Smooth | Dessert mango |
| Ataulfo | Mexico | Buttery & sweet | Silky smooth | Best for smoothies |
| Tommy Atkins | USA | Mild sweetness | Fibrous | Long shelf life |
| Kent | Latin America | Rich & juicy | Low fiber | Great for juice and export |
| Carabao | Philippines | Extremely sweet | Smooth | Sweetest mango in the world |
| Dasheri | India | Mild & aromatic | Slightly fibrous | North Indian favorite |
| Totapuri | India | Tangy & tart | Medium fiber | Used in pickles and pulp products |
Why Mangoes Taste Different: Climate, Soil, and Cultivation Matter
The flavor and texture of a mango are influenced by many factors:
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Climate: Mangoes need tropical to subtropical weather.
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Soil quality: Rich loamy soils give the best fruit.
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Altitude: High-altitude mangoes may mature slower but taste sweeter.
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Harvest time: Mangoes harvested early or late can differ in taste.
This explains why the same variety grown in different regions may have unique taste profiles.
Conclusion: A Sweet World of Mangoes Awaits
From the lush orchards of India to the sun-kissed plantations of Mexico and the Philippines, mangoes have a story in every corner of the world. Each mango variety carries its own identity shaped by geography, culture, and climate. Whether you enjoy a buttery Alphonso or a silky Ataulfo, there’s a mango for every palate.
Learning about the types and origins of mango not only enhances your appreciation for this royal fruit but also connects you to a rich agricultural heritage spanning millennia.
So next time you're at the market or planning your summer fruit list, go beyond the familiar and try a new mango variety you just might discover your next favorite.
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