Picture waking up to the foggy hills of Darjeeling, with freshly plucked tea leaves filling the air. While you have your breakfast cuppa, you can see countless rows of tea bushes stretching all the way to the majestically mighty Himalayas; their lush greenery contrasting vividly with these beautiful mountains. Welcome to Indian Tea Tourism’s magical world!
The Growth of Indian Tea Tourism
India is second in global tea production and has been a favourite among tea lovers worldwide for centuries. However, there is now a new chapter emerging in India’s tea story –tea tourism. This sector on the rise offers enthusiasts an opportunity to journey through fields that grow crops such as tea from where it ends up as a drink served at home.
Journeying Through India’s Tea Regions
As diverse as its multi-ethnic society itself, so too is India’s tea landscape. Each part offers unique experiences in consuming fine teas ranging from misty Darjeeling Hills to Assam valleys full of life.
Darjeeling: The Champagne of Teas
In the lap of the Himalayas are some of the world’s most expensive teas in Darjeeling. Here you can take strolls amidst picturesque plantations, watch workers plucking delicate leaves or even pick some yourself! Some estates like Makaibari Tea Estate which has been around since ages have tasting sessions and guided tours during which you will experience that one taste only found in Darjeeling called muscatel.
Assam: The Land of Strong, Malty Brews
Go into Brahmaputra Valley’s green parts and soon enough you will be in Assam renowned for her strong teas that are full bodied. As far as modern day methods used in making tea are concerned heritage bungalow stays are possible at places such as Mancotta or Sangsua.
Munnar: Where Tea Meets Heaven
In Kerala’s Western Ghats, Munnar is a place with rolling tea gardens painted in a wide spectrum of green hues. Kanan Devan Hills Plantations have an amazing facility where you can experience the entire process of making tea and also enjoy a breathtaking view.
Field to Cup: Understanding Tea Production
One of the most interesting things about tea tourism is getting to see and be part of the actual processing of tea. Every stage is an eye opener from plucking to processing:
Plucking: Observe or join expert tea pickers who select two leaves and a bud (the very heart of fine teas).
Withering: Inside, you will see how the plantations allow picked leaves to lose their moisture by spreading them out.
Rolling: Observe the amazing oxidation process that determines if it will be black, oolong or green tea.
Drying: Controlled temperature while drying helps preserve taste and aroma.
Grading: From initial sorting till final grading is done based on size and quality.
Beyond the Brew: Other Tea Tourism Experiences
Indian tea tourism goes beyond just consuming drinks. For instance,
Heritage Bungalow Accommodation – Some estates provide guests with rooms in former colonial houses filled with antiques and offering great services
Nature Walks and Treks – Often these areas are home to many different species of flora and fauna found within large biodiversity regions such as this one.
Culinary Experiences – Taste local dishes that often include varieties infused with teas so as to reveal flavours embedded in everyday use for this modest leaf.
Wellness Retreats – Some have Ayurvedic spas plus yoga sessions amid lush surroundings where you can unwind.
Rewriting the future of Indian tea Tourism.
Indian tea tourism is poised for growth as more tourists seek out authentic, immersive experiences. It’s a unique holiday offering, which also helps to support local communities and encourages sustainable agriculture practices.
Your Personal Tea Adventure Awaits!
Are you ready to begin your own voyage on tea? Regardless of whether you are a casual sipper or a serious connoisseur, Indian tea plantations offer an experience that will appeal to all your senses. From stepping into a misty tea garden till tasting your first fresh from the estate brewed cup of tea, you’ll grow fonder with this favourite drink.
Hence why not make your next vacation a tea-venture? Explore green estates, get educated by old hands in the art of making this beverage and create memories that won’t fade even after the last drop in your cup is gone. In India every cup of chai tells its own story – isn’t it time that you were part of that narrative?
Remember that using the HOGR app is the best way to plan Indian Tea Tourism. You can find everything you need including finding top-notch estates, organising your trip and contacting local gurus through this application. Download HOGR today and become one with India’s great world of chai!
Also read- Exploring the Best Cafes in Jayanagar: A Guide to Bangalore’s Coffee Culture
