Stay on a Tea Estate and Tour the Tea Factories

Indians cherish their tea (chai), and India is one of the largest producers of tea globally. However, over 70 percent of the tea produced is consumed locally. The growth of tea production surged during British rule when vast areas of land were converted for tea cultivation. If you are a tea enthusiast, visiting these destinations will allow you to explore the finest Indian tea plantations. Staying on a tea estate and touring the factories is an experience you won’t want to miss.

1. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Darjeeling is not only one of India’s most celebrated hill stations but is also surrounded by tea plantations that yield exquisite, light-colored, floral-scented tea. Approximately 25 percent of India’s total tea output hails from Darjeeling.

Where to Go and Stay:

• Happy Valley Tea Estate: Located just north of town, it offers the only guided tea factory tour in Darjeeling. This estate, rich in history, was established in 1850 and provides tours from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily.
• Glenburn Tea Estate: Situated about an hour northeast of Darjeeling, this estate offers a unique dining experience in its Burra Bungalow.
• Ging Tea House: A beautifully restored property with six guest suites, offering delightful tea experiences starting with tea in bed.
• Tumsong Chiabari Tea Estate: This intimate tea estate, perfect for birdwatchers, is known for its bespoke packages and stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga.
• Chamong Chiabari: A modern property providing a serene experience just an hour southwest of Darjeeling.
• Singtom Tea Resort: Located 20 minutes from Darjeeling, this resort offers access to 1,600 acres of tea gardens.
• Makaibari Tea Estate: Engage with local villagers through homestay accommodations and experience tea plucking.
• Nuxalbari Tea Estate: Recognized for producing “Certified Elephant Friendly Tea,” offers tours and merchandise of their exceptional tea.

When to Go: March to November is ideal for tea plucking; however, the monsoon season from June to September should be avoided due to heavy rains.

2. Assam, Northeast India

Assam is the largest tea-producing region in India, renowned for its malty, vibrant teas primarily grown in the Brahmaputra Valley. In Jorhat, often called the “Tea Capital of the World,” the tea culture thrives.

Where to Go and Stay:

• Banyan Grove: Nestled in Gatoonga Tea Estate, it has colonial architecture and offers insight into life on a tea estate.
• Thengal Manor: A heritage hotel option in Jorhat.
• Wild Mahseer: Refurbished historic bungalows on the banks of the Brahmaputra River.

Take a Tour: The Greener Pastures offers comprehensive tea tours to Assam, showcasing the region’s rich tea heritage.

When to Go: For optimal quality, visit between mid-May and the end of June, while tea production continues until early December, albeit with declining quality.

3. Munnar, Kerala

Munnar entices visitors with its panoramic vistas of lush tea plantations. Previously owned by Tata, these estates have a rich legacy and are now operated by their dedicated employees.

Where to Go and Stay:

• Tea Museum at Nallathanni Estate: Offers an intriguing glimpse into the town’s tea history, open daily except Mondays.
• The Tea Harvester: A boutique resort enveloped by tea plans.
• Dream Catcher Plantation Resort: Features stunning tree houses nestled in tea plants.
• Windermere Estate: An exceptional heritage property that offers a unique experience among cardamom plantations.

When to Go: The tourist season spans from August to May, but December and January can be chilly.

4. Kolukkumalai, Tamil Nadu

Set at an altitude of 8,000 feet, Kolukkumalai Tea Estate is possibly the highest tea plantation globally. The unique conditions at this elevation yield tea with distinct flavors and aromas.

When to Go: The tea estate is accessible via a rugged journey, typically taking around 2 hours from Munnar. It is advisable to spend at least one night to fully experience this remarkable destination.

5. Nilgiri Mountains, Tamil Nadu

The Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu is celebrated for its distinct dark and aromatic teas, greatly contributing to the region’s identity.

Where to Go and Stay:

• Coonoor is the epicenter for discovering Nilgiri tea with places like Highfield Tea Factory and Homedale.
• Tranqulitea: Offers gourmet tea tasting and plantation tours.
• Tea Nest: Located on Singara Tea Estate, it’s a charming place to stay.

When to Go: Best tea is produced during the cooler months, from late November to mid-February.

6. Wayanad, Kerala

Wayanad, a verdant mountainous region, also produces an ample amount of tea along with coffee and spices. The area boasts numerous scenic tea plantations.

Where to Go and Stay:

• Parisons Plantation Experiences: Offers luxurious bungalows amidst a historical tea estate.
• Tea Terrace: Features lovely cottages set in the plantation.
• Tea Route Homestay: A favorite in Meppadi for cozy accommodations.

When to Go: The best time to visit is from September to April to avoid monsoon showers.

7. Palampur, Himachal Pradesh

Tea was first introduced in Palampur in the 19th century, and today the area continues to produce premium quality tea.

Where to Go and Stay:

• Visit the Palampur Cooperative Tea Factory for guided tours and insights into tea production.
• Wah Tea Estate: Known for its organic, pesticide-free tea, provides tours on its estate.
• The Lodge at Wah: An eco-friendly boutique hotel offering stays in rustic cottages.

When to Go: Plan your visit between March to June and mid-September to November for pleasant weather conditions.