Exploring the Varied Tastes, Sceneries, and Traditions: An Expedition along the Indian Tea Route
India's tea country offers a captivating narrative, woven from the enchanting symphony of soil, climate, land, and culture. With a rich history that spans over two centuries, India has become a global leader in tea production, offering a variety of unique and exquisite teas.
For a truly immersive tea experience, consider visiting some of the best tea estates in India that offer curated stays and guided tours through tea gardens, as well as an introduction to local culture.
In the "Golden Valley" of Darjeeling, the Tumsong Tea Retreat offers a heritage bungalow stay with colonial charm, organic Darjeeling tea experiences, and breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, especially the Kanchenjunga. Guests can enjoy guided tours that highlight the estate’s history (established in 1867) and engage with local culture while savoring high-quality tea.
The Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, situated at 7,900 feet above sea level in Tamil Nadu, boasts the title of the world’s highest tea estate. Visitors can explore the organic tea plantation established by British colonists in the 1920s, partake in fresh tea tastings, and hike through the rolling hills of the Western Ghats while embracing the local alpine culture.
For a more nature-immersive stay, the tea estates near Kaziranga National Park in Assam offer opportunities to observe wildlife alongside tea trails and cultural introductions to Assam’s tea heritage.
In Assam, travellers can find immersive tea stays in the heart of tea estates, while Tripura offers strong CTC-style teas born from a warm, humid landscape. Darjeeling tea estates are renowned for their delicate two leaves and a bud, golden brews with floral notes, and the exquisite muscatel flavor.
Sikkim brews organic, delicate, and golden tea, and Nilgiri tea is known for its clear, fragrant, brisk teas that are ideal for both hot and iced brews. Additionally, Assam Orthodox tea is best enjoyed without milk and sugar, and Nilgiri Orthodox tea also boasts a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
Beyond the usual tea-producing regions in India, exotic brews are being made in Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, Arunachal, and Bihar.
In Sikkim, cherry blossom trees bloom in November, and tea tastings and guided tours are available. Kangra tea, produced in the Dhauladhar Ranges, is known for its subtle aroma shaped by crisp mountain air and holds a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
For travellers seeking a rich sensory and historical experience in Indian tea country, these tea estates combine scenic beauty, cultural immersion, and detailed tea education, making them an ideal choice.
Delve into India's tea country for an unparalleled lifestyle experience, enhanced by food-and-drink opportunities that showcase unique teas produced in various regions. To embark on a captivating travel adventure, consider staying at the Tumsong Tea Retreat in Darjeeling, Kolukkumalai Tea Estate in Tamil Nadu, or the tea estates near Kaziranga National Park in Assam, each offering immersive cultural experiences and guided tours through tea gardens.
