Well known for the best tea tourism destinations in India, several tea plantations around the country offer a great getaway to “chai” lovers. Chai lovers are present in every household of India and if you are one of them then explore these tea plantations in India.
We have listed some of India’s most fascinating and prominent tea tourist destinations for you to check out.
Best Tea Plantations Around India
As a tea lover, visiting tea plantations nationwide should be on your itinerary list. Go through the lists and find out which are the plantations that tempt you the most for long plantation walks and witnessing the processing factory.
1. Halmari Tea Estate, Assam
Located amidst the lush green valleys of Assam, Halmari Tea is known for its finest tea production ever since 1913. The estate spreads over a region of 534 acres of land and is known for its Orthodox and CTC ( Crush, Tear and Curl). The robust enriching flavour of the tea commits to quality and the expertise in plucking and processing the leaves makes it one of the best choices for tea lovers.
2. Happy Valley Tea Estate, Darjeeling
Here is another prominent site in Darjeeling, a tea estate that tourists never miss out on. The Happy Valley Tea Estate has a charming and feisty vibe making one feel elated and thrilled as they make their way through the lush greens. As you visit the tea estate, the first thing that will greet you is the sweet essence of muscatel or the pleasant flowery hint. The 437 acres of plantation was established by David Wilson, an Englishman. Hence this gives a marvelous vintage vibe to the visitors. Do not miss out on the milk and sugar ritual at the estate to taste the magnificent flavors of tea grown here.
3. Kanan Devan Hills Plantation, Munnar
Munnar, a famous hill station in Kerala, is also known for its vast plantations stretched across the valley. The peace and tranquillity that you get here are found nowhere else. Green and serene, the Kanan Devan Hills Plantation spreads over the Idukki district of Kerala. In fact, it hosts the first tea museum in this region. When holidaying in Munnar, you have to keep a day reserved for a visit to this vast tea estate.
4. Nilgiri Tea Plantations, Tamil Nadu
The stunning Nilgiri Tea Plantation is about 100 years old and well known for its refined quality of tea production. From strong dark aroma to the mild infusion in some flavors, the Nilgiri Tea Plantation with its lush green fields is simply a dream come true for tea lovers. Visit the Tranquil Tea Lounge with its exotic tea options served to the guests. There are several resorts and homestays around the plantation so you can reside close to the valley and embark on nature walks. Tea plantation walks are exciting against the backdrop of the elevating cliffs.
5. Jorhat Tea Bungalows, Assam
Visiting Assam and missing out on a tea bungalow in Jorhat is something a tea lover cannot afford to do. Located in the northeastern parts of India, Jorhat is also referred to as the Tea Capital of the World. The bungalows amidst the hills and plantations give a colonial vibe to the visitors. Experience what it feels like to visit a vintage bungalow and get a taste of the old world. Embark on this exceptional holiday experience while visiting Jorhat tea plantations.
6. Darang Tea Estate, Himachal Pradesh
Whether you are on a trekking expedition or visiting the serene Buddhist temples, and monasteries amidst the greens, the prominent Tibetan influence of Himachal will create a unique experience for the tourists. Darang Tea Estate located in Himachal is almost 150 years old. Being a family-owned business, the tea plantation houses several cottages set up against the backdrop of the Dhauladhar Range. The view from the private gardens is simply stunning. Taste the magnificent flavors of tea served at the shops.
7. Cooch Behar Tea Estate, West Bengal
Located in the northern parts of West Bengal, the Cooch Behar Tea Estate is the leading producer and supplier of tea in West Bengal. Located in the foothills of Darjeeling, Cooch Behar Plantation has more than 30,000 tea growers scattered over the state. Owned by the Cooch Behar Tea Corporation Limited, the plantation came into existence in the 1950s. Visit to this refreshing tea plantation, with magnificent walks, picturesque strolls, and the refreshing aroma of the leaves is truly tantalizing.
8. Kelagur Tea Estate, Karnataka
Known for the Organic processing of tea exclusive to Kelagur, this tea estate in Karnataka spreads over 1500 acres of land. Established somewhere around 70 years ago, this is a wonderful retreat for tea lovers. Visit the factory to explore the different kinds of tea that are grown here and processed in their unique style. Visit this marvelous tea estate in Karnataka when you are visiting during the holidays. The infusion of Oolong or the pleasant essence of freshly grown leaves is simply tantalizing. The traditional technique of growing the leaves, picking and processing makes this plantation a unique experience for one to witness.
9. Gatoonga Tea Estate, Assam
Being the largest tea estate in the country, Assam tea from here is known for its distinct taste and prominent shade. Within this Assam tea plantation are beautiful villas and comfortable stays. You can reside within the plantation and embark on long nature walks and other outdoor activities like leaf plucking to experience the best. Located near Jorhat, Gatoonga Tea Estate in Assam is massive with lush green valleys surrounding the hills from all sides. Being over 100 years old, the Gatoonga Tea Estate is a heritage spot and perfect for exploration.
10. Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Tamil Nadu
Located around 7,900 feet above sea level, this wonderful tea estate in Tamil Nadu is magnificent and has a two-storey establishment. It started operating in the 1930s with the sprawling plantations creating a marvelous sight. The old tea factory in the plantation allows the spectators to see how tea leaves are plucked and then processed, undergoing oxidation and so for distinct colour and flavour. While you sip into the tea, the panoramic view of the hills and the green plantation creates a pleasant aura for the visitors.
11. Makaibari Tea Estate, Darjeeling
Located amidst the picturesque landscapes of Darjeeling, the refined tea leaves cultivated in Makaibari Estate are truly one of a kind and well-known around the whole world. The exquisite plantation was established in 1859 and is also known and the tea produced here is known as “Champagne of Teas”. This estate is the pioneer of biodynamic farming and organic tea production for sustainable tea cultivation.
This estate produces a large kind of tea including Oolong, green tea and more. Whether muscatel or floral, the diverse range of tea leaf production in Makaibari is unparalleled.
12. Ambootia Tea Estate, Darjeeling
Located in Kurseong, very close to Darjeeling, the Ambootia Tea Estate is another popular plantation which excels in organic and biodynamic tea production. Established somewhere between 1859 and 1864, Ambootia holds a marvellous glory in terms of history. Maintaining a strong commitment in terms of sustainability, the estate produces premium quality like first flush, second flush, with black tea being their specialty. Beverages produced by Ambootia are known for their sweet and fragrant essence. Preventing synthetic ingredients in their teas, Ambootia tea is a healthy choice for consumers.
13. Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling
Spreading over a region of 1600 acres of land, the Glenburn Tea Estate is just about an hour’s drive from the main town. Within the estate, there are beautiful bungalows which offer accommodation to the guests. With well-equipped luxurious suites and the stunning view of Kanchenjunga against the backdrop of the green field, everything feels so surreal. If you are in town, do not miss out on Glenburn Tea Estate. Here you can get dressed in the costumes of the native tea leaf collectors and capture unique memories for your albums!
14. Poab Organic Tea, Kerala
Perched on the Nelliyampathy hills, the Poab Organic Tea Estate is another one that keeps sustainability as one of its priorities. Established not later than the 1990s, this estate has gained the reputation of an organic production brand in India. The biodynamic farming method is the highlight of the processing system. Different kinds of tea that are produced here include CTC black tea, orthodox, green tea, and more. The invigorating aroma is the specialty of tea produced by Poab Organic Tea Estate.
Conclusion
India stands as a statement to enriching tea production and fine infusion. Committing to both quality and flavor, the global tea market continues to grow due to India’s contribution to popularizing these warm beverages across the world.