Discover the Essence of Darjeeling Tea and Its Iconic Tea Gardens

Darjeeling Tea, often referred to as the "Champagne of Teas," holds the prestigious distinction of being India’s first Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged product, joining the ranks of world-renowned items like French wine, Swiss chocolate, and Mysore silk. This globally recognised status ensures that only tea grown in the Darjeeling region can be labelled as Darjeeling Tea, preserving its unique flavour profile and cultural heritage.

A Personal Journey into Darjeeling Tea

Growing up in a typical Indian household, tea for me meant masala chai—a robust concoction of milk, ginger, and spices. It wasn't until my teenage years, during a visit to Glenary’s (a famous café in Darjeeling), that I discovered the true essence of Darjeeling Tea. Watching guests sip this golden-hued beverage without milk was a revelation. Although I realised Darjeeling Tea wasn’t my personal favourite in that form, the experience deepened my appreciation for its cultural significance.

The Beauty of Darjeeling’s Tea Gardens

Travelling from Siliguri to Darjeeling, one can’t help but be mesmerised by the expansive tea gardens spread across the rolling hills. These manicured plantations stretch like an endless green carpet, their uniformity creating a visual spectacle. A visit to the tea gardens isn’t just about admiring the view—many tourists, myself included, enjoy donning traditional attire and posing with a tea-picking basket, pretending to pluck the famed leaves. This unique blend of natural beauty and cultural charm makes Darjeeling’s tea estates a must-visit for anyone travelling to the region.

Why Darjeeling Tea Stands Out

Darjeeling Tea’s distinctive flavour comes from the region's high-altitude climate, rich soil, and traditional processing methods. The tea is known for its musky-sweet aroma and light floral notes, making it a sought-after product worldwide. Visiting Darjeeling offers an opportunity to not only taste this world-famous tea but also experience its origins firsthand through tours of the tea estates.

At Central Heritage Resort & Spa Darjeeling, we invite you to explore the world of Darjeeling Tea, sipping freshly brewed cups in our ‘1910 Lounge and Bar,’ overlooking the hills and mountains. Book your stay with us and indulge in the rich history and culture of Darjeeling's tea industry.