Sipping Through India: Top Tea Producing States in 2024

We have got some tea! And a kind that warms our hearts with an aromatic brew and unwinding flavours. From the baskets of Assam tea to the mist-laden tea gardens of Tamil Nadu, tea travels through different winds, lands and traditions, carrying stories from the hills to our homes.

We are travelling across tea production in India– state-wise, to bring you all the tea.

Assam: The Heartbeat of Tea

Ah, Assam! The land where tea is not just a beverage but a way of life. Nestled in the northeastern part of India, this state is blessed with a tropical climate, rich alluvial soil, and plenty of rainfall. All of them together tenderly bring the true Assam tea flavour.

With its sprawling tea gardens covering more than 347809.73 hectares, Assam produces over 672.14 M. kg of tea. The bold and malty flavour of Assam tea is a direct reflection of its environment. So when you sip a cup of Assam tea, you’re not just enjoying a drink; you’re experiencing the essence of this vibrant land!

West Bengal: The Champagne of Teas

Travel a whole day from Assam (via train we suggest) and you will see the cultural land of Bengal– our next destination and second largest tea production in India. Home to the exquisite Darjeeling tea, nestled in the majestic foothills, the tea gardens in Bengal hold a misty awe to them. The result? A perfect conditions for producing this "Champagne of Teas."

The high altitude and cool climate work together to create a distinct flavour that’s a bit floral and a bit fruity, making every sip a delightful experience. The careful cultivation techniques passed down through generations add to the uniqueness of Darjeeling tea. Imagine sipping a cup while gazing at the snow-capped peaks—pure bliss, right?

Tamil Nadu: The Enchanting Nilgiris Tea Nights

Now, let’s glide down to Tamil Nadu, where the picturesque Nilgiri hills offer a different yet equally captivating tea experience– bursting with flavour and character. This state is known for its Nilgiri tea, which boasts a bright and fragrant profile that can brighten up any gloomy day.

Anamalai Hills and the High Range region add to the tea profiles we celebrate. The tea gardens in Tamil Nadu are often perched at high altitudes, offering a cooler climate that nurtures the leaves into flavorful wonders with a subtle minty undertone. Plus, the blend of cultures here means that every sip tells a story, connecting you to the land and its people.

Kerala: The Spice-Laden Delight

Following the trail of tea production in India– state-wise, we arrive in Kerala, a state renowned for its spices and lush greenery.

The tea plantations in the Munnar region are nothing short of magical, perched on rolling hills and surrounded by a diverse ecosystem. The combination of rich soil, a tropical climate, and abundant rainfall creates a paradise for tea cultivation. As a result, Kerala offers robust and uniquely bold teas and delicate, nuanced varieties.

When you enjoy a cup of Kerala tea, you’re savouring the vibrant culture and biodiversity of the region.

Karnataka: A Rare Experience

Spreading over 2093 hectares of land, the tea estates from Karnataka have carved out their niche with its unique Coorgi tea. The citrusy-tasting black and green tea grown here is celebrated for its robust flavour and bright colour.

That is why it is said– enjoying a cup of Coorgi tea is like embracing the spirit of the Western Ghats, where nature thrives and flavours flourish. What sets Karnataka apart is its organic tea cultivation practices—many estates here prioritise sustainability, allowing you to sip your tea with a clear conscience.

Himachal Pradesh: The Peaks of Flavourful Surprises

Rounding out our list of tea production states in India is Himachal Pradesh. Filling your cup with surprises, tea grown in Himachal Pradesh is known primarily for the Himachali tea.

The nuanced flavours, with a balance of briskness and sweetness, add to the rich profile of the state. The unique climate and rich soil of the region contribute to many more delightful blends of flavours– from robots to buttery and from fruity to malty. Plus, the picturesque tea gardens nestled amidst the mountains create a serene backdrop that’s simply awe-inspiring.

So there you have it—our flavourful exploration of Indian tea states– from the largest tea production in India to the most unique one. Next time you pour yourself a cup, take a moment to appreciate the journey it took to get to you– not just in distance but in culture, history and process.