Of all the paradises in India, Darjeeling is one of the most refined that the country has to offer. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, a cup of Darjeeling tea is irresistible with its enticing aroma and enticing taste. Darjeeling tea plantations are booming. These estates are not only known for producing some of the best tea in the world, but also for unforgettable and fantastic experiences. Here are 5 of the most charming and beautiful Darjeeling tea estates that one should visit at least once in a lifetime.
1. Puttabong Tea Garden
One of the largest tea gardens in Darjeeling, Puttapong Tea Garden is a magnificent garden overlooking the scenery of Gancheng Junga, a snow-capped mountain. Located between 1500-6500 feet above sea level, it is also believed to be the first tea estate in Darjeeling's tea complex history. In addition, it was also the first tea estate to use mechanical pruning machines and commercial trade. This garden is planted with Darjeeling clones, Chinary shrubs and cloned tea trees, which were specially developed to meet the agro-climatic conditions of the region. What sets this estate apart from others is the sustainable production of the gardens. It has a huge worm composting plant, cattle farms and a production center for liquid fertilizer made from local herbs. Known for its light musk hand-blended and silver-tip teas, this tea estate is a real delight for any tea lover.
2. Glenburn Tea Estate
Glenburn Tea Estate is a small, heavenly plantation set on a hill on the banks of the River Rangit, founded by the Scots in 1859. Later, its rule was handed over to the tea pioneer family, the Prakash family. For tourists, this tea plantation is no less than a visit to a European vineyard. The owners of the tea garden insist on providing visitors with an all-encompassing sensory experience, allowing visitors not only to sip tea in nature's bed, but also to stay in their luxurious villas. There will also be rich historical tours, delicious food and quiet walks. In addition, visitors can witness the entire processing process of tea leaves and better understand how tea leaves are made to make the most perfect tea cup. Glenburn Estate is known for producing some of the finest black and green Darjeeling teas with a natural floral aroma and a malty aftertaste.
3. Makaibari Tea Garden
The Makaibari Tea Plantation has some of the best tea leaves in the world and is representative of a typical Darjeeling organic tea plantation. The tea estate has been managed by the Banerjee family for over four generations since its inception in 1859 by the g.c. Banerjee family and is also known for having the world's first tea factory. Except for organically grown tea. Makaibari Tea Garden is known for its value in creating a sustainable environment. The operating family has dedicated their lives to protecting and improving soils and improving the lives of the people who work there. This is the only organic tea garden where tea trees grow in harmony with the pristine subtropical rainforest. This is due to the estate's biodynamic/permaculture practices. If you are an organic tea lover and believer in sustainable practices, then come and visit this Darjeeling tea farm and taste their famous organic pearl white tea.
4. Gopaldhara Tea Plantation
Established in 1955, Gopaldhara Tea Estate is the pinnacle of the finest Darjeeling teas. Darjeeling Tea Plantation not only produces high-quality tea, but also sells and distributes high-quality tea. The tea garden covers an area of 320 hectares, of which 172 hectares have been planted with high-quality tea trees. Gopaldhara Tea Plantation is also known for producing high quality handcrafted teas such as Pearl Tea, Stupa, Olympic Torch, Silver Needle and more. Located in the heart of Mirik Valley, the estate is one of the highest tea plantations, with an altitude between 5,500 feet and 7,000 feet. This Darjeeling tea plantation is a must-see for those who love innovations in tea production. Their most popular is the 1st and 2nd brew and their best 1st brew is the Maharani in Darjeeling.
5. Okayti Tea Garden
Established in the 1870s, Okayti Tea Plantation is one of the oldest tea production factories in the region. It is also known as Rangdoo Tea Estate and is located in Mirik Valley. The perfectly balanced astringent for which Okayti tea is known has dried fruit and nutty flavours. This Darjeeling tea plantation is famous for its authentic black tea, specialty green tea and white tea. The charm of tasting a cup of authentic Darjeeling tea at the Darjeeling Tea Plantation while enjoying the view of the snowy Gancheng mountains is another charm in itself. A visit to Darjeeling's vast green valley is a must for every tea lover. This beautiful hill station not only has Darjeeling tea, but also rich local culture, huge monuments, historical sights and nice little markets.
