Tea Tourism in Assam
Assam state is nestled in the North-eastern part of India, is the second largest north-eastern state is surrounded by hills, rivers, historical temples, parks, wildlife sanctuaries, islands, and so on, which makes this state vibrant and considered as the land of diverse cultures. The state is renowned for its lush green picturesque landscapes, rich cultural heritage and mostly for its tea production and tea gardens.
The tea tourism offers a unique blend of nature and rich cultural heritage, making it a must visit destination for travelers seeking an immersive travelling experience. Assam’s sprawling tea gardens offers an enchanting blend of natural beauty, rich cultural history and the gardens are about enjoying the great outdoors in the lap of nature. In this blog we will explore the world famous tea tourism by exploring its origins, the charm of its tea gardens and an immersive experience it offers to visitors. So stay tuned:
1. The origin of Assam Tea
In India, the tea was introduced by the British in early 19th century and in Assam tea industry is about 172 years old. The Assam is one of the largest tea growing region in India which contributes approximately 50% of the country’s total tea production, which has earned the title of “Tea estate”. In 1823, during the period of East India Company, an officer Robert Bruce discovered wild tea plants growing in forests of Assam. In 1837, the first tea garden was established by the East India Company at Chabua.
Year 1839, is the turning point of Assam tea . In that year, with the formation of tea company, the state marked the beginning of large-scale commercial tea production. The first Indian to cultivating tea in Assam was Maniram Dutta Baruah, popularly known as Maniram Dewan.
2. Experience Hands-on tea production process
The tea tourism offers a hands-on experience of the tea-production process. The hosts of the tea gardens guided the visitors through several stages of tea production process, from plucking tender leaves to processing them into factories, witnessing the transformation of fresh tender green leaves into aromatic tea is both fascinating as well as educational also. The Assam tea is renowned for malty and brisk characteristics. In 2008, The Orthodox tea has been received GI (Geographical Indication) tag, produces about 20 million kg of orthodox tea per year. This GI tag will help Assam tea to get international worldwide recognition.
3. Cultural immersion
Assam’s tourism offers a rich cultural immersion to the visitors, where they can interact with the local communities, including the tea garden workers, who have their own distinct cultures and traditions. The state’s festivals, such as Bihu, provide a glimpse into the vibrant Assamese culture, with its traditional music, dance, and cuisine.
4. A journey through tea gardens in Assam
One of the insight of tea tourism in Assam is visiting its sprawling tea gardens. The city’s state is dotted with numbers of tea gardens which remind the city’s colonial past. People visit to experience and enjoy tea, tasty delicacies and beautiful green-lush gardens. Here we have curated a list of some popular tea gardens to visit in Assam, which will delight your heart: Monabarie Tea Estate, Halmari Tea Estate, Mangalam Tea Estate, Amchong Tea Estate, Nagrijuli Tea Estate, Sapoi Tea Estate, etc.
5. The Future of Tea Tourism in Assam
Assam tea tour is rapidly gaining popularity as more travelers seek authentic and immersive experiences. The government and private enterprises are working together to develop infrastructure, in order to ensuring that visitors have a comfortable and enriching experience. Such Initiatives include- improving accessibility to remote tea estates, creating more interactive and educational tours and so on.
6. Heritage Bungalows and Tea Tourism
It is not just about the plantation of teas but also about to experiencing the colonial-era charm, preserved in the heritage bungalows. These bungalows, often over a century old, offering visitors a glimpse into the colonial lifestyle with their antique furniture, sprawling verandas, and manicured gardens. Staying in these bungalows allows visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquil ambiance of the tea gardens.
7. Boosting Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Tourism
Assam tea tourism is a step towards sustainable and eco-friendly tourism as many tea estates have adopted organic farming practices and promote eco-tourism initiatives, where visitors are encouraged to engage in participating hands-on activities like tree planting, organic farming workshops, which fostering a sense of responsibility towards the environment.
Conclusion
Exploring the rich heritage of tea in Assam is more than just a holiday. It is an experience that connects one to the land, its people, and a centuries-old tradition. Whether you are a tea enthusiast or a nature lover, tea gardens promise a memorable and enlightening adventure.
So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to the land with us “Trip to Farm” where every cup of tea tells a story. Thank you.