The many lush tea estates spread over different pockets of India attract travellers and tea enthusiasts from all across the world, and one of the top spots on their list is Darjeeling. If you’re planning a trip yourself, you can be sure that it is the best place to learn everything you need to about the manufacturing process of your favourite beverage, while also basking in the panoramic views of the hilly city. Some of the tea estates here also offer comfortable accommodations, so you can spend a few days, while experiencing tasting sessions and learning plucking techniques from the workers themselves. Scroll ahead for our recommendations.
Glenburn Tea Estate and Retreat
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Established in 1860 by Scottish tea planters, Glenburn Tea Estate is perched atop rolling hills and sprawls over 1,600 acres. While you’re here, take a guided tour through the tea fields, where experts will give you insight into how the tea bushes are grown and maintained. Take a lesson or two on how to pluck the ‘two leaves and a bud’, which are later manufactured into the tea that ends up in your cup, or find out about the different types of pruning. There are two rivers flowing through the estate as well, serving as idyllic spots for a quiet lunch by the sandy banks.
Glenburn is also great for overnight stays and retreat vacations, since they have a lodge and a camp site (with spectacular views of the valley) in their premises, which you can book in advance. Plus, you can also expect to partake in cookery classes, hiking trails, massage treatments and more here.
Makaibari Tea Estate and Home Stay
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One of the oldest family-owned tea gardens in Darjeeling, Makaibari produces the city’s most expensive tea. It has been run by the Banerjee family for decades now, and Swaraj Kumar Banerjee (better known as Rajah Banerjee) remains the last single owner. He’s also lives here, so feel free to catch up with him to learn everything about teas, organic farming and local practices. The estate has stone house buildings and cottages for travellers who opt to stay. In case you're looking for a more pocket-friendly and culture-soaked option, the local garden workers offer homestays in the village too.
Goomtee Tea Estate and Resort
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With panoramic views of the mountains, Goomtee Tea Estate and Resort spans across 600 acres. It’s not only been recognised globally for its aromatic teas, but also for the luxury holiday experience it offers. Established by British tea planters in 1899, the space features a 100-year-old heritage bungalow, which used to be the residence of a British plaster and his family. Lesser known that its neighbouring estates, Makaibari and Glenburn, it offers an equally immersive experience to the tea lovers who come in for a visit. The guides give you rare insight into the manufacturing process of world famous teas, and their library comes stoked with a wide collection of books on the subject.
Happy Valley Tea Estate
If you’re a tea enthusiast in Darjeeling, and looking to plan a short day trip outside the city, we suggest you head to the Happy Valley Tea Estate, especially during the ongoing season. But go prepared with a comfortable and sturdy pair of shoes—there’s a narrow downhill path on your way. Buy some freshly plucked premium tea leaves and understand the farm-to-table process. The estate does not offer overnight stays, making it perfect for a day trek.
Ging Tea House
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Located at just a 30-minute drive from Chowk Bazaar in Darjeeling, 60 per cent of Ging Tea House’s land has been left uncultivated to maintain the ecological balance. These spots are forested and feature beautiful flora and fauna. One of the oldest plantations in Darjeeling, access to this tea house was earlier a privilege given only to British planters. Today, it’s open for everyone to visit and spend a few days at. The antique decor, high ceilings and well-maintained suites take you back to the aesthetic grandeur of the colonial era. And the viewing deck offers a view of the Kanchenjunga hills as well. But the best part? The space also offers a traditional tea tasting session for enthusiasts. You’re not going to want to miss this one.
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