Nepali Tea Brands A Journey Through the High Himalayas

Nepali Tea Brands A Journey Through the High Himalayas

While the lush tea gardens of Darjeeling and the verdant fields of Assam are often in the spotlight, Nepal is quietly brewing its way into the hearts of tea lovers worldwide. Nestled among the towering peaks of the Himalayas, Nepali tea brands offer a unique blend of flavors, nurtured by high altitudes and rich cultural heritage. This is not just a story of tea leaves but a journey through the landscapes and lifestyles that define this remarkable region.

The origins of tea in Nepal can be traced back to the mid-19th century when the first bushes were planted in Ilam, a scenic town that shares its climate and terrain with the renowned Darjeeling district across the border. Today, Nepali tea gardens stretch along the eastern hills, where altitude, mist, and soil converge to create conditions perfect for growing premium teas. From the fragrant Ilam to the picturesque hills of Dhankuta, each region imparts its unique characteristics to the tea, offering a captivating palette of flavors that range from floral and sweet to robust and malty.

One can't talk about Nepali teas without mentioning their craftsmanship. Unlike the industrial scale of some tea-producing regions, Nepali tea is often cultivated with an artisanal touch. Many estates are family-run, where traditional methods are cherished and passed down through generations. Plucking is done by hand, ensuring that only the finest leaves are selected, and the orthodox methods of processing — withering, rolling, oxidizing, and drying — are carried out with an eye for detail and a heart for heritage. This careful craftsmanship is evident in every sip, as the flavors unfold subtly, revealing layers of complexity.

For those venturing into the world of Nepali teas, black and white varieties are particularly celebrated. The black teas from Nepal are reminiscent of their Darjeeling neighbors but often with a softer, more floral note — a gentle reminder of the Himalayan breezes that caress the tea gardens. Nepali white teas, on the other hand, offer a delicate elegance that pairs well with quiet moments or thoughtful company. When brewed, these teas release a fragrant bouquet that can transport you to the peaceful terraces of the hills.

Brewing Nepali tea is a simple yet mindful practice. A good starting point is to use freshly boiled water, cooled to about 85–90°C, to steep the black teas for around 3–5 minutes, or slightly cooler water for the subtle whites. The process doesn't just coax the flavors from the leaves; it conjures the spirit of the slopes that nurtured them.

As tea lovers in the United States and Europe explore new horizons, Nepali tea stands as a testament to the power of exploration and connection. Each cup is a bridge between worlds, a shared moment that transcends borders and cultures. So next time you savour a cup of Nepali tea, take a moment to appreciate the journey it's made and the hands that have crafted it. In a world that rushes past, a pause with Nepali tea is a reminder that beauty often lies in the quiet and the humble.