The Tea Gardens of Darjeeling.

Himalayas Foundation
Sep 23, 2023
2 min read

https://www.himalayasfoundation.org/ The Tea Gardens of Darjeeling, located in the state of West Bengal, India, are renowned worldwide for producing some of the finest and most sought-after teas in the world. Darjeeling, often referred to as the "Champagne of Teas," is famous for its distinctive and delicate flavour profile. Darjeeling is a picturesque hill station situated in the Lesser Himalayas, at an elevation ranging from 600 to 2,100 meters (2,000 to 6,900 feet) above sea level. This elevation, combined with the unique climate and soil conditions, contributes to the distinctive flavour of Darjeeling tea. The region experiences a temperate climate with cool winters, moderate summers, and heavy monsoon rains. This climate, along with the misty and foggy weather, provides an ideal environment for growing tea. The tea produced in Darjeeling primarily includes black, green, white, and oolong teas. Each type has its own distinctive characteristics, with flavours ranging from muscatel to floral and fruity notes. Darjeeling tea is primarily made from the Camellia sinensis var. sinensis plant. The first flush, second flush, and autumnal flush are the three main harvesting seasons, each producing teas with different flavour profiles. Darjeeling tea has been granted Geographical Indication (GI) status, which means that only tea produced in the Darjeeling region can be labelled and sold as such. This helps protect the authenticity and quality of Darjeeling tea. Visiting the Tea Gardens of Darjeeling offers a unique opportunity to witness the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into producing this world-famous beverage. It also allows one to experience the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the region.