Tea Tasting in Coonoor

A visual of a steaming cup of tea sitting against a calm, green and hazy backdrop is likely to arise at the mention of Coonoor. The lush tea plantations, fogged hilltops and colonial attractions epitomise serenity and its British heritage. Out of all the delights of the hill station, its tea tasting is a definite must-try.

The authenticity of the land’s beverage was not discovered until 1835. That is when the first experimental nursery was started in Coonoor’s Ketti Valley. Since then the rich soils of the hills have been blooming the most aromatic and energizing tea in the country. The hills’ soil type, its elevation and climate makes the tea from Coonoor so peculiar with its unique flavour and healing strength.

The famous Nilgiri tea comes in three varieties based on the sorting method. The highest grade, sorted using hands and hence, the most expensive; white tea, is the kind that is made by full leaves. The second-grade tea, Broken Orange Pekoe is a little less expensive, uses semi full leaves and is sorted by machines. And then, there is the third kind, CTC – Crush, Tear and Curly.

Nilgiri tea has its own unique health benefits. Its natural ability to fight bacteria, cold, diarrhoea and constipation simply adds to its favour. Moreover, it is rich in antioxidants, helps lose body fat, is good for the heart, improves blood flow, lowers blood pressure and reduces blood sugar levels.

Coonoor is home to tea- gardens that offer tea tours and allow tea-tasting arrangements. Our properties for sale in Coonoor have been designed in such striking locations that the whole serene experience of sipping on the famous Coonoor tea is augmented furthermore.

Picture courtesy: Coonoor Tourism, Nat Geo Traveller and Taj Holidays.