Exploring the Essence of Assam: A Journey through Tea Tourism

Nestled in the North eastern corner of India, the state of Assam is renowned for its lush green landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and, of course, its world-famous tea. Assam has been a vital player in the global tea industry for over a century, and its tea estates offer a unique and immersive experience for tourists. Tea tourism in Assam is a growing trend that not only allows visitors to savour some of the finest teas in the world but also to get a glimpse into the fascinating world of tea production.

Considering the enormous potential of tea tourism in Assam, the Department of Tourism plans to develop 50 select tea gardens having iconic tea bungalows that are at least 50 years old and which are close to existing tourism circuits as tourism destinations on PPP mode. The development of tea tourism in Assam, besides sustaining the environment and preserving heritage and culture, will benefit the state by creating employment opportunities and boosting the rural economy.

Tea has been an integral part of Assam’s history, culture, and economy since the early 19th century. The British East India Company is credited with introducing commercial tea cultivation in Assam. Robert Bruce, a Scottish explorer, is believed to have discovered wild tea plants in Assam in the 1820s, although it is also believed that the local Singpho tribals had been cultivating and drinking tea for a long time as an herbal drink. Bruce’s plants were eventually used to establish the first tea gardens in the region. Assam’s unique climate and geography make it the ideal location for growing the Camellia sinensis var. assamica tea plant, which produces the bold, brisk and malty flavour for which Assam teas are famous.

Assam boasts more than 800 tea estates spread across the Brahmaputra Valley. These estates are not only places of tea production but also picturesque destinations for tourists. Each estate has its charm and distinct character, from the serene landscapes to the historic bungalows that once housed British tea planters.

A few of the must-visit tea estates in Assam include Monabarie Tea Estate which is said to be Asia’s largest tea estate, the Mancotta Tea Estate which is redolent with heritage, and the eco-conscious Wild Mahseer Lodge which is nestled within the Addabarie Tea Estate.

TEA TOURISM DESTINATIONS

With more than 800 major and 60,000 small estates spread across 300,000 hectares, Assam has the world’s largest concentration of tea plantations and employs 17% of the state’s workforce. Assam tea accounts for 55% of India’s total tea production and 80% of the country’s export. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that Assam is a treasure trove of tea tourism destinations, most of which are in Upper Assam, with numerous tea estates and gardens scattered across its lush landscapes. Each destination offers a unique experience, from guided tours of tea production to opportunities for cultural immersion and wildlife exploration. Dibrugarh and Jorhat are two major tea tourism destinations.

Established in 1970, the Guwahati Tea Auction Centre (GTAC) is one of the busiest tea trading facilities in the world and a must visit. The Tocklai Experimental Station in Jorhat district is the world’s oldest and largest research station of its kind, carries out clonal propagation and constant research so that the strength of the full-bodied liquor is retained and the tea bushes yield high-quality tea.

Many of the heritage residential bungalows of the tea estates have been developed as tea garden resorts to attract tourists. These include Mancotta Chang Bungalow and Chowkidinghee Heritage Chang Bungalow in Dibrugarh, Wathai Heritage Bungalow in Tinsukia, and many more.

MUST-VISIT TEA ESTATES

MANCOTTA TEA ESTATE, DIBRUGARH: Nestled in the picturesque town of Dibrugarh, this tea estate boasts a charming heritage bungalow that serves as a homestay for tourists. Guests can engage in tea plucking, explore the estate’s gardens, and learn about the tea-making process. The sprawling tea gardens, colonial-era bungalow, and tranquil surroundings provide visitors with a glimpse into the rich history and tradition of Assam’s tea industry. Tourists can embark on guided tours that take them through the tea cultivation and processing methods, providing a fascinating insight into the making of Assam tea. For those simply seeking a serene escape, the estate’s charming bungalow, which once served as the home of British planters, offers a comfortable stay where travellers can relax and enjoy the serene ambience.

WILD MAHSEER, BALIPARA: Set in the middle of the Addabarie Tea Estate, this luxury lodge combines tea tourism with a focus on wildlife conservation. Visitors can enjoy nature walks, bird watching, and even go on a safari to explore the nearby Nameri National Park. The Lodge is a beautifully restored heritage bungalow, and serves as the perfect base for travellers to explore the estate and its surroundings. It also a tranquil and authentic atmosphere, allowing guests to relax and unwind in the midst of nature.

MARGHERITA TEA ESTATE, MARGHERITA: Nestled in the serene landscape of Margherita in the upper Assam region, this tea estate welcomes visitors with open arms. It is famous for its historic heritage bungalows and golf course. Tourists can learn about the tea manufacturing process, relax in the colonial-style surroundings, and explore the nearby Singpho village to learn about the local culture. Tourists have the opportunity to explore the sprawling tea gardens, where they can witness the meticulous process of tea cultivation and plucking.

MONABARIE TEA ESTATE, MONABARIE: Set in Assam’s Biswanath District, this is Asia’s Largest Tea Estate. The sprawling gardens consist of 1158 hectares of tea plantations and are owned by the McLeod Russel India Limited, a part of the Williamson Magor Group. Tourism at Monabarie Tea Estate is a serene and immersive experience that beckons travellers to the heart of Assam’s tea country.

HATHIKULI TEA ESTATE, GOLAGHAT: This estate is unique for its location near the Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its population of one-horned rhinoceros. Tourists can enjoy a blend of tea experiences and wildlife safaris.

NONAIPARA TEA ESTATE, DIBRUGARH: Nonaipara Tea Estate offers a serene and picturesque atmosphere. Visitors can participate in tea plucking and processing, explore the well-maintained gardens, and enjoy leisurely strolls in the estate.

GATOONGA TEA ESTATE, DIBRUGARH: Gatoonga Tea Estate is known for its lush gardens and stunning scenery. It provides guided tours of the tea factory, cultural performances, and opportunities to interact with the estate workers.

BOGAPANI TEA ESTATE, DIBRUGARH: This estate is situated amidst picturesque surroundings. Visitors can take guided tours of the tea factory, learn about the tea-making process, and engage in tea-tasting sessions.

MANJUSHREE TEA ESTATE, TINSUKIA: Manjushree Tea Estate offers guided tours of the tea manufacturing process, tea plucking experiences, and the chance to stay in cosy bungalows surrounded by tea gardens.

MANOHARI TEA RETREAT, DIBRUGARH: This charming resort sits amidst the lush greenery of an 1,800-acre tea estate, with over 1,000 acres planted with tea bushes, and evokes the old-fashioned elegance of the colonial era. The rooms and cottages are reminiscent of a British tea planter’s mansion.

DURRUNG TEA ESTATE, DEKA CHUBURI: Situated on the north bank of the mighty Brahmaputra in Sonitpur District, this tea plantation was established in 1875 and is one of the oldest in Assam. With a rich history of a century and a half, the estate is noted for its premium black tea. The Kaziranga National Park and Orang Wildlife Sanctuary are in close vicinity of the garden.

These tea tourism destinations in Assam offer a diverse range of experiences, from getting up close and personal with tea production to immersing yourself in the natural beauty and culture of the region. Each estate has its unique charm, making Assam a paradise for tea enthusiasts and travellers seeking a holistic experience.

TEA AND TEE: To conclude, Assam’s tea tourism is a blend of nature, culture and history. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the world of tea from the plantations to your cup while immersing yourself in the enchanting beauty and cultural richness of Assam. So, if you are a tea connoisseur or simply someone who appreciates natural beauty and cultural experiences, Assam’s tea gardens are a must-visit destination to quench your thirst for tea and adventure. It’s a journey that promises to leave you with memories as delightful as the brew itself. Meanwhile, golf tourism in Assam is rapidly gaining recognition among golfers seeking not only an excellent golfing experience but also a journey into the heart of Northeastern India’s natural and cultural wonders. With its lush and scenic courses, unique wildlife encounters, and a welcoming atmosphere, Assam is an emerging and affordable golf destination that deserves a place on every golfer’s travel bucket list.

And when you put tea and golf together, you have the makings of a perfect holiday. So, pack your clubs and tee off in paradise in the stunning state of Assam. And don’t forget to have that refreshing cup of Assam tea afterwards!