Wayanad’s Tea Plantations: Discovering the Region’s Rich Tea Heritage

Nestled in the lush hills of Kerala’s Western Ghats, Wayanad is a region of rolling hills, dense forests, and winding rivers. While the area is best known for its natural beauty and ancient caves, it is also home to some of India’s finest tea plantations. From the traditional tea-making techniques to the rich flavors of the tea itself, exploring Wayanad’s tea plantations is a unique experience that offers a glimpse into the region’s rich tea heritage.

One of the most popular tea plantations in Wayanad is the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate. Located on the border of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, the estate is one of the highest tea plantations in the world, situated at an altitude of over 8,000 feet. Visitors can take a scenic jeep ride to the estate and witness the traditional tea-making process, which involves plucking the leaves by hand and processing them in small batches. The tea produced at Kolukkumalai is known for its unique flavor and aroma. It is said to be influenced by the cool mountain air and the region’s fertile soil.

Wayanad's Tea Plantations

Another famous tea plantation in Wayanad is the Wayanad Tea Museum. Located in the town of Kalpetta, the museum is dedicated to preserving the region’s tea heritage and showcasing the traditional tea-making process. Visitors can take a guided tour of the museum and learn about the history of tea cultivation in the region and the various techniques used to produce high-quality tea. The museum also features a tea-tasting room, where visitors can sample different tea varieties and appreciate their unique flavors and aromas.

For those who want to experience the tea-making process firsthand, the Chembra Peak Tea Estate offers a unique opportunity. Located near Chembra Peak, the estate is a small-scale operation that produces high-quality tea using traditional methods. Visitors can take a tour of the estate and learn about the various stages of tea production, from plucking the leaves to drying and curing them. The estate also offers a tea-tasting experience, where visitors can sample its multiple tea blends and learn about their unique characteristics.

Another famous tea plantation in Wayanad is the Thusharagiri Tea Estate. Located near the Thusharagiri Waterfalls, the estate is known for producing some of the finest organic tea in the region. Visitors can take a tour of the estate and learn about the various organic farming techniques used to cultivate tea without the use of harmful pesticides or fertilizers. The estate also offers a tea-tasting experience, where visitors can sample the various blends and appreciate their unique flavors and aromas.

Thusharagiri Tea Estate in Wayanad

After a long day of exploring Wayanad’s tea plantations, visitors can unwind at one of the region’s many luxury resorts. AfterTheRains resort offers a range of accommodation options, including luxury villas with earthy and local experiences of Wayanad. It is a luxury resort in Wayanad, set in a 16-acre spice garden located in the western Ghat mountain ranges of the Nilgiri biosphere. The resort is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Guests can indulge in a range of activities, including nature walks, bird watching, and biking. The resort’s on-site restaurant offers a range of local and international cuisine, including dishes made with local ingredients. Experiential in nature, the villas, the facilities, and the services are well-planned to give you an ideal holiday in one of the best resorts in Wayanad without compromising the environment.

In conclusion, exploring Wayanad’s tea plantations is an experience like no other. From the traditional tea-making techniques to the rich flavors of the tea itself, the region’s tea heritage is a testament to its long-standing history of tea cultivation. Visitors can witness the entire tea-making process, from plucking the leaves to drying and curing them, and appreciate the unique flavors and aromas of the various blends. In addition to its tea plantations, Wayanad is also known for its diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the region’s numerous wildlife sanctuaries, such as the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary. The region has various animals, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and bears. Visitors can take a guided jeep safari and spot these majestic animals in their natural habitat.