If you’re someone who cherishes both travel and tea, there’s no better adventure than a journey to India’s tea estates. Imagine starting your morning with the earthy aroma of tea leaves, sipping a steaming cup as you gaze out over misty hills and endless rows of green. Each of India’s tea plantations is a unique experience- a blend of history, breathtaking scenery, and flavours as rich as the culture itself.Â
The synthesis of breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage on these estates creates a feast for the senses, offering not just a taste of India’s exquisite teas, but also an immersive experience in the country’s diverse traditions and vibrant communities. This journey is truly a celebration of both travel and the art of tea, making it an unforgettable adventure for any enthusiast.
Here’s our pick of the ten best tea estates to visit in 2025, where each sip of tea brings you closer to the heart of India.
- Temi Tea Estate, Sikkim
Nestled high in the Himalayas, Temi is Sikkim’s only tea garden and a true hidden gem. Founded by the last king of Sikkim, it holds a special place in local history. It supports Tibetan refugees and produces one of India’s only fully organic teas. Picture a stroll through the golden autumn leaves in November, surrounded by mountain views and fresh air, sipping tea that’s as warm and welcoming as Sikkim itself. Temi isn’t just a tea garden; it’s a story of resilience and purity.
Experience: Visitors to Temi can roam through mist-covered hills surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Sipping a cup of its tea in November’s golden foliage is a magical way to experience Sikkim’s tranquil beauty.
What Makes it Special: Temi’s organic and pure teas reflect the clean, untouched environment of the Himalayas, offering a flavour that’s light, smooth, and close to the famed Darjeeling tea.
2. Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling
Set against the majestic backdrop of the Himalayas, Glenburn was founded by Scottish settlers in the mid-1800s and has since become one of Darjeeling’s most charming retreats. With 1,600 acres of tea bushes, forests, and rivers, Glenburn offers an experience that feels like stepping into another world. Imagine unwinding in a cosy bungalow with a cup of their famous Darjeeling tea in hand. The plantation also offers guided nature walks, so you can wander through this enchanting landscape and see tea-making in action.
Experience: Guests can stay in the estate’s heritage bungalows, with breathtaking views of tea-covered hills and forested landscapes. Nature walks, treks and riverside picnics are a part of the experience, making it feel like a storybook escape.
What Makes it Special: Glenburn’s rich, floral Darjeeling teas capture the estate’s cool Himalayan air and mountain water, producing flavours that are smooth, refreshing, and slightly sweet.
3. Gatoonga Tea Estate, Assam
For a true taste of Assam’s legendary teas, Gatoonga Estate in Jorhat is a must-visit. Over a hundred years old, it’s a place where history and heritage come alive. Here, you’ll find traditional colonial bungalows, expansive tea gardens, and some of the finest Assam teas, with rich, malty flavours perfect for chilly mornings. Imagine a relaxed afternoon on the estate, sipping bold, full-bodied Assam tea under the clear sky—an experience that brings out the spirit of Assam.
Experience: Walking through its sprawling tea fields under a clear sky, you’ll encounter the strong, earthy aroma of Assam tea, with hints of malt and honey. The estate offers an authentic glimpse into Assam’s tea culture, complemented by the surrounding natural beauty.
What Makes it Special: Known for producing Assam’s strong, malty teas, Gatoonga’s teas are robust, full-bodied, and have a dark, rich hue—perfect for a bold breakfast tea.
4. Makaibari Tea Estate, Darjeeling
One of Darjeeling’s oldest and most renowned tea estates, Makaibari offers a vibrant and immersive experience. Every morning, tea pickers gather, drumming and chanting before they begin their work—a tradition that feels almost sacred. With panoramic views of the rolling hills, Makaibari’s teas are known for their delicate, floral notes. It’s a place that feels alive, with every corner steeped in history, making each cup of tea feel like a celebration of tradition.
Experience: The estate’s vintage colonial charm, scenic views, and vibrant community make it an engaging visit. Guests can witness how the community celebrates the art of tea-making, adding a lively touch to the serene landscape.
What Makes it Special: Makaibari’s teas are delicate and fragrant, with floral and fruity notes that capture the estate’s rich biodiversity.
5. Chamong Tea Estate, Darjeeling
If you’re after a tranquil escape, Chamong Estate has you covered. Spanning around 900 acres, this peaceful plantation offers rolling hills and scenic trails, perfect for an afternoon of wandering and reflection. The estate is home to local tea-pickers’ villages, where life has revolved around tea for generations. A cup of Chamong’s rich, aromatic Darjeeling tea as you look out over the hills is simply unforgettable—a moment where time seems to slow down.
Experience: With panoramic vistas of the rolling hills, it’s ideal for long walks and a peaceful retreat. Chamong’s teas are distinctively aromatic, and tasting sessions allow guests to savour their subtle floral and musky notes.
What Makes it Special: Chamong’s teas carry the floral elegance of Darjeeling tea with complex, delicate flavours that resonate with the misty, cool environment.
6. Ghograjan Tea Estate, Assam
This family-run estate on the banks of the Ghagra River in Assam brings you close to the essence of traditional tea-making. There’s something special about being welcomed into a family home, and Ghograjan feels like that. Watching the tea leaves go through their artisanal process here is a rare glimpse into Assam’s tea heritage. And, of course, there’s the tea itself—strong, vibrant, and as full of character as the estate’s history.
Experience: Here, you’re welcomed like family, with insight into Assam’s tea-making traditions. Watching the hand-rolling of tea leaves and learning about traditional tea production methods offers a rare, hands-on experience.
What Makes it Special: Ghograjan’s teas are bold and brisk, known for a distinctive malty taste and deep, reddish-brown colour—a favourite for those who enjoy a strong cup.
7. Halmari Tea Estate, Assam
Another gem in Assam, Halmari Estate is known worldwide for its high-quality teas. This estate has been with the Daga family for generations, and they’ve turned it into one of the top producers of Assam tea. The family’s dedication shows in every cup of their tea, which is rich, malty, and satisfying. Halmari is perfect for tea lovers who want a deeper understanding of Assam’s tea culture and a taste of tea that’s as rich as the landscape.
Experience: Guests can explore the estate’s lush landscape and learn about Halmari’s fine tea cultivation process. Halmari’s teas are full-bodied with a smooth, creamy finish—a result of the estate’s commitment to quality.
What Makes it Special: Known for its rich, malty flavours, Halmari teas are bright and full of strength, loved by those who appreciate the bold character of Assam teas.
8. Coonoor Tea Estate, Nilgiris
Head south to the Nilgiri Hills, and you’ll find Coonoor Tea Estate, where the air is crisp and the views are lush. Known for its distinctive Nilgiri teas, this estate is perfect for a quiet escape, surrounded by forests and hills. Nilgiri teas are light and fragrant, with a floral aroma that sets them apart. Imagine sitting under a tree, sipping tea as you watch birds flit through the greenery. It’s a serene experience that lets you fully appreciate the beauty of Nilgiri’s landscape.
Experience: Coonoor offers a refreshing escape, surrounded by tropical forests and mountain air. Nilgiri tea’s delicate flavour, with fruity and floral hints, is best enjoyed while watching birds flutter through the trees.
What Makes it Special: Nilgiri teas from Coonoor Estate are known for their clean, smooth flavour and slightly brisk finish—a favourite among those who enjoy mild, aromatic teas.Â
9. Sourenee Tea Estate, Darjeeling
Perched on the edge of the Mirik Valley, Sourenee offers panoramic views of the mountains and even stretches into Nepal’s distant hills. Staying at Sourenee is like stepping back in time, with luxurious bungalows that feel both vintage and elegant. Their teas are as refined as the estate itself, with delicate notes that capture the unique terroir of Darjeeling. For tea lovers who want a touch of elegance with their adventure, Sourenee is a dream come true.
Experience: The estate combines traditional charm with modern amenities, making it ideal for a comfortable stay with stunning views. Guests can enjoy tea-tasting sessions with the valley’s scenic beauty as the backdrop.
What Makes it Special: Sourenee teas have a unique floral bouquet with mild fruity notes, reflecting the distinct terroir of the Mirik Valley.
10. Sapoi Tea Estate, Assam
Sapoi is a treasure for tea lovers looking to explore Assam’s heritage. Located along the mighty Brahmaputra River, this 100-year-old estate spans over 2,500 acres, and the workers are as welcoming as the morning sun. Here, you can enjoy hearty breakfast teas while learning from friendly staff who are passionate about Assam’s tea culture. With its breathtaking views and rich, robust teas, Sapoi provides an experience that’s both down-to-earth and deeply rooted in Assamese culture.
Experience: Visitors can explore the estate, meet the knowledgeable staff, and sip strong breakfast teas as they take in the sights of Assam’s expansive landscape.
What Makes it Special: Sapoi’s robust teas carry the signature depth and warmth of Assam tea—bold, brisk, and satisfying, perfect for starting the day.
Tips for Your Tea Estate Adventure in India
When to Go: For the most enjoyable experience, plan your trip between October and March. This season brings cool weather and clear skies, perfect for wandering through the plantations.
Where to Stay: Many estates offer accommodations in charming heritage bungalows. Staying on-site allows you to experience plantation life up close and indulge in freshly brewed teas right from the source.
What to Do: Most estates offer guided tours and treks, where you can learn about the tea-making process and join tastings. Take advantage of these to fully appreciate the skill and tradition that goes into every cup.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Beauty and Tradition of India’s Tea Heritage
Whether you’re drawn to the peaceful hills of Nilgiri, the lush valleys of Assam, or the enchanting slopes of Darjeeling, each tea estate offers an experience that’s more than just sightseeing. It’s a journey into the culture, history, and flavour that make Indian tea so unique. So, if you’re a tea lover or an adventurer, mark these estates on your 2025 travel map. After all, there’s no better way to explore India than one cup of tea at a time.
And if you’re inspired to bring some of these flavours home, check out our website for authentic loose-leaf and herbal teas that capture the essence of India’s tea heritage.