The Story Behind Darjeeling Tea

Darjeeling is the area that produces the most aromatic variety of tea, the Darjeeling tea. It has a unique aroma and a perfect flavour accompanied by a musky spiciness. No doubt, connoisseurs have rightly dubbed it as the Champagne of Teas. Let's take a look at the brief history of Darjeeling tea:

1. It was in 1841 when tea planting began in Darjeeling. Dr Arthur Campbell was the first person to plant tea seeds in his garden just as an experiment to see what type of crops are suitable in that area.
2. In 1847, the British government established tea nurseries across Darjeeling. The tea nurseries were successful, and this venture encouraged the tea growers in the area to procure land and start tea plantations. The tea seeds were brought from the Botanical Gardens in Calcutta.
3. The first tea gardens or plantations in Darjeeling were started in Makaibari and Alubari. This was followed by plantations at Tokvar, Dooteriah, Moondakothi, and Margaret’s Hope.
4. Many Europeans such as Capt. Masson, Dr Grant. The Barnes Brother, Mr George Christison, were some of the pioneers of Darjeeling tea.
5. By 1866, about 39 tea estates were covering 405 hectares of land in the region.
6. It was W. O'Brien Ansell, an engineer, who further propelled the development of the tea industry in Darjeeling. He was the first to introduced tea sorters and power-driven tea roller in the region.
7. After independence, by 1956, ownerships of the majority of tea estates changed hands. It was noted European tea planters like Mr T.J Hardingham and Mr C. W Emmett who stayed back and helped in promoting the Darjeeling tea.

Want to experience the richness of Darjeeling tea while enjoying the magical beauty of the hills? If yes, then visit The Windamere Hotel, the truly authentic British colonial hotel in India. The hotel is the best place to enjoy a delightful afternoon tea, whilst soaking in the history of colonial India. Nothing could be as luxurious as sipping the finest cup of pale gold Darjeeling tea while sitting back and enjoying the view of the majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga. So, if you want to a book hotel in Darjeeling, book your stay at the Windamere Hotel.