Indonesian vs Indian vs Thai Oud — What's the Difference?
Not all oud oils are created equal. The origin of agarwood has a profound impact on its scent profile, character, and quality. At Pure Oud UK, we source pure oud oils from across Asia — and each one tells a different story. Here's your guide to understanding the key differences between Indonesian, Indian, and Thai oud.
Indonesian Oud Oil
Indonesian oud is perhaps the most widely recognised and popular variety in the world. Sourced from the Aquilaria malaccensis and Aquilaria microcarpa trees found across the Indonesian archipelago — including Borneo, Sumatra, and Papua — Indonesian oud is known for its:
- Scent profile: Spicy, woody, and earthy with a bold, powerful character
- Intensity: Strong and long-lasting on the skin
- Colour: Deep amber to dark brown
Indonesian oud is a favourite in the Middle East and is often used as a base note in luxury perfumery. It's an excellent choice for those who want a rich, commanding fragrance.
Indian Oud Oil
Indian oud — often called 'Hindi oud' — is sourced primarily from Assam in Northeast India, one of the oldest agarwood-producing regions in the world. Indian oud is considered by many connoisseurs to be among the finest in existence. It is characterised by:
- Scent profile: Earthy, herbal, and animalic with deep, complex undertones
- Intensity: Deeply rich and long-lasting
- Colour: Dark, almost black oil
Indian oud has a raw, primal quality that is highly prized in traditional perfumery. It's not for the faint-hearted — but for those who appreciate its depth, it is truly extraordinary.
Thai Oud Oil
Thai oud comes from the Aquilaria crassna trees of Thailand and is known for being smoother and more approachable than its Indonesian or Indian counterparts. Thai oud is characterised by:
- Scent profile: Smooth, incense-like, and woody with subtle sweetness
- Intensity: Moderate — elegant rather than overpowering
- Colour: Light to medium amber
Thai oud is an excellent entry point for those new to pure oud oils, offering a refined and balanced fragrance experience.
Which Oud is Right for You?
Choosing the right oud comes down to personal preference:
- If you love bold, powerful fragrances — go for Indonesian Oud
- If you appreciate deep, complex, earthy scents — try Indian Oud
- If you prefer smooth, elegant, approachable fragrances — start with Thai Oud
Not sure where to begin? Our Pure Oud Oil Sample Pack lets you try all three origins so you can discover your perfect match.