Nestled in the Darjeeling hills near Kurseong, Ambootia Tea Estate is one of the oldest and most beautiful tea estates in the region. Famous for its organic tea and scenic vistas, the estate offers a serene escape amidst lush tea gardens, towering trees, and panoramic mountain views. If you're a tea enthusiast, nature lover, or someone seeking a peaceful retreat, Ambootia is a perfect destination to experience the charm of Darjeeling's tea culture.
Spanning over 500 acres, Ambootia is famous for producing some of the finest Darjeeling tea. The estate is committed to sustainable, organic farming practices, ensuring that every cup of tea is a product of nature's best offerings.
Let's take a closer look at the things to do, history, and experiences you can enjoy during your visit to Ambootia Tea Estate.
Ambootia Tea Estate was established in the 1860s by British planters and has since become a significant player in the production of Darjeeling tea. The estate has remained in family hands and has evolved into one of the region’s most famous organic tea producers.
The name "Ambootia" is derived from a local word, which refers to a type of fruit found in the region. Over the years, Ambootia has gained a reputation for producing high-quality teas that are loved worldwide. The estate is known for producing a wide range of teas, including green tea, black tea, and white tea. All of these teas are grown without the use of chemicals, ensuring their purity and natural flavor.
One of the main highlights of a visit to Ambootia is the opportunity to experience a tea tasting session. Ambootia’s organic Darjeeling tea is known for its delicate flavors, making it an ideal choice for tea lovers. During the tea tasting, you’ll be able to sample different varieties of tea, including the famous first flush and second flush teas, which are harvested at different times of the year for distinct flavors.
The tasting session is typically led by a tea expert who will guide you through the nuances of tea tasting—explaining how to appreciate the subtle aromas and flavors of each tea. It’s a great way to learn about the different types of Darjeeling teas and understand what makes them so special.
Ambootia offers guided tours of its beautiful tea gardens, where visitors can get a firsthand look at the tea cultivation process. The tour will take you through the estate's lush green fields, where tea leaves are carefully harvested by skilled workers.
You'll learn about the organic farming techniques employed at Ambootia, such as using natural fertilizers and sustainable practices that promote the health of the soil and the environment. The estate is a pioneer in organic tea production, and the tour provides an educational experience for those curious about the tea industry and sustainable agriculture.
As you stroll through the tea plantations, the guide will explain the importance of altitude, climate, and soil in producing Darjeeling’s unique tea flavor. You’ll also get to witness the traditional tea-plucking process up close, where skilled workers pick the tender, young leaves by hand.
In addition to the tea-tasting sessions and garden tours, Ambootia is also a great place for nature walks. The estate is surrounded by beautiful forests, rolling hills, and spectacular views of the Himalayas. You can take a leisurely walk through the tea gardens or explore the surrounding areas to enjoy the fresh air, peaceful surroundings, and incredible views.
The estate offers stunning panoramic views of the Kurseong Valley and the majestic Kanchenjunga Range, making it an ideal spot for photography and nature lovers. Whether you’re strolling through the tea fields or walking through the lush forests, the serenity of Ambootia makes it an incredibly peaceful place to relax and unwind.
Ambootia Tea Estate is committed to producing 100% organic tea, free from synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. During your visit, you’ll have the chance to learn about the biodynamic farming practices used to cultivate tea on the estate. The estate uses a holistic approach to farming, ensuring that the plants, soil, and environment are all nurtured in harmony.
The estate's dedication to organic farming is not only good for the environment but also results in tea that is pure, flavorful, and healthy. Tea lovers will especially appreciate the chance to learn how the estate’s organic practices enhance the quality and taste of the tea they produce.
Before you leave, be sure to stop by the Ambootia Tea Shop, where you can purchase the estate's organic tea to take home. The shop offers a variety of teas, including black, green, and white tea, all grown and processed at the estate. You can purchase loose-leaf tea or tea bags, as well as other tea-related products like tea accessories and gift sets.
Purchasing tea directly from the estate ensures you're getting the freshest possible tea, and it’s also a perfect souvenir to remember your visit to one of Darjeeling's finest tea estates.
The best time to visit Ambootia Tea Estate is from March to June, which is the first flush tea season. During this time, the estate harvests its most sought-after tea leaves, which are known for their delicate flavor and light, floral notes. The cool and pleasant weather during this period is also ideal for exploring the tea gardens and enjoying nature walks.
Another great time to visit is during the autumn months (from September to November), when the weather is clear, and the landscape is lush and green after the monsoon season.
It’s best to avoid visiting during the monsoon season (June to September), as the region experiences heavy rainfall, which can make travel difficult.
By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, approximately 35 km from Ambootia Tea Estate. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to reach the estate.
By Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), around 30 km away. From NJP, you can take a taxi or shared vehicle to reach the estate.
By Road: Ambootia Tea Estate is easily accessible from Kurseong (about 5 km away). You can hire a taxi or take a private vehicle to reach the estate. The drive is scenic, offering great views of the tea gardens and hills.
Ambootia Tea Estate Guesthouse: The estate offers a guesthouse for visitors who want to stay closer to the tea gardens. Staying here allows you to experience the estate’s peaceful environment and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding hills.
Kurseong: For more accommodation options, you can stay in Kurseong, which is only a short drive away. There are several hotels and guesthouses offering a range of options from budget to mid-range.
A visit to Ambootia Tea Estate offers a unique opportunity to experience the world of organic tea cultivation while surrounded by breathtaking views of the Darjeeling hills. Whether you’re a tea enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone looking to relax in a serene environment, Ambootia provides an unforgettable experience. From tea tasting to nature walks, the estate offers something for everyone. So, if you're in the Kurseong area, be sure to make a stop at Ambootia Tea Estate - it's an experience you won’t want to miss.
