The arrival of summer brings thoughts of ice cream, but did you know that one city in India is known as the "Ice Cream Capital" The unique flavors of the ice cream found on its streets make it special.

Ice Cream Capital Of India: Nothing beats ice cream for respite from the scorching sun and sweaty heat. While ice cream is available everywhere in India, there's one city where every child is crazy about it. Mangaluru, Karnataka, considered the "ice cream capital" of India, is known for its excellent dairy products and unique flavors. Before you enjoy this summer, find out why this city is a paradise for sweet lovers.

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The city of Mangaluru in Karnataka is renowned not only for its harbor and beaches, but also for its cool and creamy ice cream. Nestled between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, this city has earned the title of "Ice Cream Capital of India." Here, ice cream isn't just a dessert, but a part of people's lifestyle.

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Whether it's scorching sun or pleasant weather, Mangaluruans enjoy ice cream year-round. The city's dairy industry and the creativity of the locals have combined to give it this unique identity. The strong dairy industry is a major reason behind Mangaluru's rise as an ice cream hub.

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Dairy cooperatives like Nandini are very active and successful in coastal Karnataka. A steady supply of fresh milk and premium cream helps local manufacturers produce excellent quality ice cream. This uncompromising approach to quality has made Mangaluru's ice cream nationally renowned, and today, its brands are competing fiercely with multinational companies.

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Mangaluru's success is largely due to Ideal Ice Cream, founded in 1975 by S. Prabhakar Kamath, affectionately known as "Pabba Mom." What began with just 14 flavors has now grown to include over 50 varieties.

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Their famous outlet, "Pabbas," has been ranked among the 100 most prestigious ice cream destinations in the world by Taste Atlas. The brand has won the Best in India award multiple times at national competitions, a testament to its popularity and taste.

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If you're in Mangaluru and haven't tried "Gadbad," your trip is incomplete. Mangaluru is considered the birthplace of this famous multi-layered ice cream. Served in a tall glass with layers of different flavors of ice cream, jelly, fresh fruit, and a plethora of dried fruits, this dish became so popular that now any mixed sundae across South India is known as "Gadbad."

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The ice cream experience in Mangaluru is also quite luxurious. Ideal Ice Cream Parlor, located on GT Road, is considered one of the largest ice cream parlors in India, seating over 300 people to enjoy their favorite desserts at one time. This place has become more than just a shop, but a social hub.

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Mangaluru's ice cream makers are known for experimenting with local ingredients. Here you'll find flavors rarely found elsewhere, such as 'Bella Candy' made from local jaggery and 'Panak' ice cream, based on the traditional beverage, which is tempered with jaggery, ginger, and black pepper.

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Apart from this, ice cream made from fresh tropical fruits like jackfruit and sapota is a speciality here, which promotes local farming and culture.