Does Pink Tea Have Caffeine? A Look at Kashmiri Chai

January 10, 2026 •

3 min read

While many assume all pink drinks are caffeine-free, traditional Kashmiri pink tea, also known as Noon Chai, is actually brewed using green tea leaves. This means it contains some caffeine, though typically less than a standard cup of black tea.

Quick Summary

Pink tea, or Kashmiri chai, contains caffeine derived from the green tea leaves used in its preparation, though the quantity is generally lower than black tea.

Key Points

Caffeine Source: Kashmiri pink tea contains caffeine because it is made with green tea leaves, which come from the Camellia sinensis plant.
Low to Moderate Content: The caffeine level in pink tea is generally lower than that of black tea or coffee, providing a gentle energy boost.
Brewing Matters: The amount of caffeine can be influenced by factors like brewing time, the quantity of green tea leaves, and the specific variety used.
Not All Pink Teas are Caffeinated: Herbal 'pink' teas, such as those made from rose petals or hibiscus, are naturally caffeine-free.
Read Labels: Always check the ingredients of instant or pre-mixed pink tea products, as their caffeine content can vary.
Enjoy Gently: Pink tea is an excellent option for those seeking a warm, flavorful drink with a milder stimulating effect than high-caffeine beverages.

The Source of Caffeine in Pink Tea

Kashmiri pink tea, also called Noon Chai or Gulabi Chai, gets its distinctive color and flavor from a unique brewing process. The foundation of this process is the tea leaves themselves, which are a type of green tea. Since green tea is derived from the Camellia sinensis plant, it naturally contains caffeine. The concentration of caffeine in a cup of pink tea is influenced by several factors, including the quality of the green tea leaves, the amount used, and the steeping time. Traditional preparation involves brewing the tea leaves for an extended period, which can draw out more caffeine, but the overall caffeine level remains modest compared to stronger black tea varieties. The pink hue is achieved through the addition of baking soda during the brewing process, which reacts with the chlorophyll in the green tea leaves.

How Brewing Affects Caffeine Levels

The preparation method of pink tea is unique and directly impacts its final caffeine concentration. The base green tea is often brewed to create a concentrated mixture, or 'kahwa,' which is then combined with milk and spices. The total caffeine in the final beverage is a result of this initial brew. A longer steeping time for the green tea leaves results in higher caffeine extraction, while a shorter one results in a lower amount. Compared to a standard mug of drip coffee, which can contain anywhere from 95 to 165mg of caffeine, a cup of Kashmiri pink tea contains a significantly smaller amount, often providing a gentle, less jittery energy boost. This makes it a popular choice for those looking for a flavorful, warm beverage with a less intense stimulant effect.

Factors Influencing Caffeine in Pink Tea

Green Tea Variety: The specific type and quality of green tea leaves used can vary in their natural caffeine content.
Brewing Time: Longer steeping and boiling of the tea leaves will extract more caffeine.
Amount of Tea: A larger quantity of tea leaves used in the 'kahwa' will yield a more concentrated, caffeinated brew.
Preparation Method: The traditional Kashmiri method, involving extensive aeration and boiling, may affect caffeine extraction differently than a quick-brewing method or a pre-mixed powder.
Added Ingredients: Some pre-mixed products or recipes may include additional ingredients that alter the total caffeine level.

Pink Tea vs. Other Caffeinated Beverages: A Comparison

To better understand pink tea's place in the world of caffeinated drinks, it is helpful to compare it directly with other common beverages. This comparison highlights its status as a lower-caffeine option for many tea lovers.


Beverage	Typical Caffeine Content (per 8 oz cup)	Notes
Kashmiri Pink Tea	15-30mg	Made with green tea; typically low caffeine.
Standard Green Tea	25-50mg	Varies based on brewing and leaf type.
Black Tea	40-70mg	Stronger and more robust than green tea.
Drip Coffee	95-165mg	Significant energy boost due to high caffeine levels.
Herbal Tea (e.g., Rose Tea)	0mg	Naturally caffeine-free, but check for blends with other teas.

Are All Pink Teas Caffeinated?

No, it is important to distinguish between traditional Kashmiri pink tea and other beverages that may be pink in color. Some pink-hued drinks are herbal infusions, such as hibiscus tea or pure rose petal tea, which are naturally caffeine-free. If you are specifically seeking a caffeine-free option, be sure to check the ingredients. Kashmiri pink tea is identifiable by its creamy, slightly salty flavor profile, often garnished with nuts, while herbal teas will taste more floral or fruity and contain no tea leaves from the Camellia sinensis plant. A premix brand like 'Mazdaar' specifically markets a caffeine-free pink tea option, indicating the variation in available products.

Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Pink Tea and Caffeine

In summary, traditional Kashmiri pink tea does contain caffeine because its base ingredient is green tea. However, its caffeine content is generally on the lower end compared to black tea or coffee, making it a good option for those sensitive to high levels of stimulants. The exact amount can fluctuate based on brewing time and the specific type of green tea used. For a guaranteed caffeine-free experience, consider a rose petal or hibiscus herbal tea, and always read product labels carefully. Ultimately, pink tea offers a delicious and gently stimulating alternative for tea enthusiasts. To learn more about rose tea, which is naturally caffeine-free, you can visit Healthline for additional information about its benefits and uses.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, traditional Kashmiri pink tea is not caffeine-free, as it is brewed using green tea leaves. However, it generally has a lower caffeine content compared to black tea or coffee.

The caffeine content in pink tea is relatively low, typically ranging from 15 to 30mg per serving, though this can vary based on brewing methods and specific ingredients.

Pure rose petal tea is naturally caffeine-free. However, some products may be a blend of rose with black or green tea, so it is important to check the label for added caffeine.

Yes, pink tea is an excellent alternative to coffee for those who want to reduce their caffeine intake. Its lower caffeine content provides a more gentle energy boost without the jitteriness associated with higher-caffeine drinks.

Because of its low caffeine content, pink tea is less likely to disrupt sleep compared to black tea or coffee. Many find it a relaxing drink to enjoy in the evening.

The caffeine in Kashmiri pink tea comes directly from the green tea leaves (Camellia sinensis) used to make its base brew, known as 'kahwa'.

You should check the product's ingredient list. If it lists green tea leaves, it contains caffeine. If it is made from only herbal ingredients like rose petals or hibiscus, it is typically caffeine-free.