Tea Heritage Circuit (Sub-circuit)
A focused journey into the heart of Darjeeling's tea country, exploring the legacy, flavors, and culture of the 'Champagne of Teas'.
Circuit Overview
This sub-circuit of the North Bengal Hills offers a deep dive for connoisseurs and enthusiasts into the world of Darjeeling tea.
The Tea Heritage Circuit is specially designed for those who wish to immerse themselves completely in the world of Darjeeling tea. Go beyond a simple visit and delve into the intricate processes of tea cultivation, plucking, processing, and tasting. This trail connects historic tea estates, some over 150 years old, each with its own unique story and flavour profile.
Stay in luxurious heritage tea bungalows, wake up to misty mornings over rolling tea gardens, and learn to distinguish between the first, second, and autumnal flushes from the masters themselves. It's an aromatic and educational journey that celebrates the rich heritage of one of the world's most famous beverages.
Circuit Highlights
- Stay in luxurious heritage bungalows on working tea estates
- Participate in exclusive, in-depth tea tasting sessions with tea masters
- Walk through the tea gardens and learn to pluck the 'two leaves and a bud'
- Take a comprehensive factory tour to understand the entire tea-making process
- Enjoy stunning Himalayan views from your tea garden retreat
Circuit Route
Follow the scenic route connecting the major destinations of this circuit.
Darjeeling
Kurseong
Makaibari
Glenburn
Happy Valley
Key Destinations
One of the oldest and most famous tea estates, located just outside Darjeeling town, offering guided tours and tastings.
Suggested Stay: 2-3 hours
A pioneer in organic and biodynamic tea cultivation, offering homestays and in-depth cultural and tea experiences.
Suggested Stay: 1-2 days
A luxurious plantation retreat on a sprawling 1,600-acre estate, offering a boutique hotel experience with stunning views.
Suggested Stay: 2-3 days
Famed for its Muscatel second flush teas, this estate in Kurseong produces some of the most expensive and sought-after teas.
Suggested Stay: Day visit
Suggested Itineraries
Arrival & Transfer to Estate
Arrive at Bagdogra/NJP and transfer directly to a heritage tea bungalow like Glenburn or Makaibari. Settle in and enjoy an evening tea ceremony.
Garden & Factory Immersion
Morning walk through the gardens with a guide. Participate in a tea plucking session. Afternoon comprehensive factory tour.
Master Tea Tasting & Darjeeling
Participate in a guided multi-flush tea tasting session. In the afternoon, visit Darjeeling town and Happy Valley Tea Estate.
Departure
Enjoy a final morning amidst the tea gardens before departing for Bagdogra/NJP.
Practical Information
Getting There
- Fly into Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or take a train to New Jalpaiguri (NJP). Private transfer to the estates is recommended.
Best Time to Visit
- March-May for first flush.
- May-June for second flush (Muscatel).
- October-November for autumnal flush.
Getting Around
- Transfers are usually arranged by the tea estates. A private car is best for flexibility.
Accommodation
- Heritage bungalows on tea estates are the main highlight. Bookings are essential and should be made well in advance.
What to Pack
- Layers for cool mornings and evenings.
- Comfortable shoes for walking in the gardens.
- An inquisitive palate for tasting!
Travel Tips
- This is a premium, focused experience; book everything in advance.
- Engage with the estate staff and tea makers to learn the most.
- Buy tea directly from the estates for the freshest and most authentic product.
Experience Gallery
