A beautiful sun-kissed winter morning amidst an expansive lush green tea estate is like a dream vacation for the lovers of these tasteful green leaves. There is an unexplainable serenity one might feel while trailing through these plantations. Clothed in a myriad of colors, the natives are busy plucking ‘one and two leaves’ with care and precision. Here’s a list of the best Indian tea plantations to visit in India in 2022.
A blissful treat for all your senses!
The flavourful beverage with its invaluable health benefits is a popular drink in India. Its earthy aroma fills the morning air of almost every household. Tea gifts make a humble and thoughtful token of love, especially if you are visiting any of the famous tea estates in India.
1. Jorhat Tea Bungalows in Assam
Jorhat in Assam is considered the ‘Tea Capital of the World’ due to ample tea estates. The beautiful scenery encompassing these estates is perfect for trekking and leisure walks. Every bungalow carries a rich heritage of colonial times. The aesthetic beauty of nature and architecture combined gives a wholesome experience.
2. Glenburn Tea Estate in Darjeeling
This estate is the ultimate destination for tea lovers with a fondness for nature. Perched on a hillock above the banks of River Rungeet, this estate overlooks the breathtaking Kanchenjunga. It was established in 1839 by a Scottish tea company. At present, it is run by the Prakash family for four generations.
The estate spreads over a sprawling 1,600 acres of land.
It is most famous for its Darjeeling green tea. This tea makes the best tea gifts for Christmas for your loved ones who need a little health boost this winter season.
3. Darang Tea Estate in Himachal Pradesh
This 150-year old tea estate is located in the Upper Dhauladhar ranges of the Himalayas. Significant for its old country vibes entwined with tranquil nature makes it a perfect spot for a quick getaway.
Summers are the best time to visit Darang and enjoy this estate’s true beauty. You can try local Himachali cuisines and along with your favorite cup of fresh brew.
4. Nilgiri Tea Plantations in Tamil Nadu
Nilgiris, also known as the Blue Mountains, is home to several hundred tea estates. The historical significance of these estates can be traced back to over 100 years.
The scenic gardens are most famous for the production of fine Oolong and Black tea. The delightful tea experience is made complete with their plantation tours. While you are visiting these plantations, start your journey with Coonoor.
There is no alternative to fresh plucked and crushed tea leaves as tea gifts for your colleagues.
5. Kanan Devan Hills Plantations in Munnar
When you visit this place, you might come across a unique piece of information. These are the only plantations in India that its employees own. With a sprawling 24,000 hectares of gardens, they are the most extensive tea corporate in South India.
Located in Kerala’s Idukki district, it is one of the famous tourist attractions in India. It is especially true due to the presence of India’s first tea museum. Therefore, the next time you visit this place, do not forget to take a museum tour.
6. Cooch Behar Tea Estate in Assam
The tea estate was established in 1950 and at present owned by Cooch Behar Tea Corporation Ltd. Located in North Bengal, at the foothills of Darjeeling, this exquisite location is a famous tourist spot. These gardens enhance the scenic beauty of the hill station. The expanded green land and the aromatic, crisp air are appealing to your senses. Imagine gazing at the estates and clear sky while sipping a piping hot cup of tea.
7. Kelagur Tea Estate in Karnataka
This estate is famous for its production of organic tea. The plantations spread across a vast 1,500 acres of land. Built 70 years ago, these gardens make a picturesque view adding to your pleasurable experience. The wholesome tour reaches its peak when you get an opportunity to witness its traditional tea-making process. This heart rendering experience brings you closer to the fresh cup of brew you get to enjoy in the end.
8. Kolukkumalai Tea Estate in Tamil Nadu
Like the Kelagur Tea Estate, you get to experience traditional techniques of tea making in Kolukkumalai plantations. Established in the 1930s, this splendid estate is situated at almost 7,900 feet elevation above sea level. The tea experience will entice you to bring home some of the best selection of leaves. Thus, you can have the best tea gifts for Christmas and chilly winters.
9. Gatoonga Tea Estate in Assam
These plantations are located in Baruajan in Jorhat. It is significant for its 100 years of heritage, colonial bungalows and a complete view of tea making. Gatoonga tea estate is famous for producing the largest number of tea in India. If you visit these plantations, Banyan Grove is the most popular place that you might consider staying. Nothing beats a spectacular view of large tea plantations under the wide blue sky with a cup of fresh brew.
10. Makaibari Tea Estate in West Bengal
It is one of the oldest tea gardens in Darjeeling. There is a significant reason why this is one of the most famous tea plantations in India and so popular among tourists. Every day before starting the plucking process, the workers beat drums and chant a prayer. The satiny rich taste of their tea gives you a feeling of being royalty in the peaceful setting of its gardens. Undoubtedly, as tea gifts, they are perfect for your extended family. The bungalows located in the area are architectural masterpieces. The intricate designs reflect the tea bungalows of the colonial era. All in all, this place is the perfect spot for a family vacation.
A rejuvenating trip to these plantations and enjoying delicious meals accompanied by your favorite cup of tea is unmatchable. Family vacations or even traveling solo to such places is like building a memory that will be etched in your mind for a lifetime.
