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Makaibari Tea Estate, nestled in the picturesque Kurseong subdivision of Darjeeling district, West Bengal, India, stands as a living testament to the rich heritage of tea cultivation. Established in 1852, it boasts the distinction of being one of the oldest tea estates in Darjeeling, celebrated for its commitment to organic and biodynamic farming practices.
The historic tea factory at Makaibari, commissioned in 1859, marked the inception of tea processing in the Darjeeling district. The estate spans 120 hectares, where a six-tier permaculture system harmoniously coexists with the lush landscape. This sustainable approach to farming not only underscores Makaibari’s commitment to environmental stewardship but also contributes to the unique flavour and exceptional quality of its teas. Among these, the Moonlight Silver Tip tea from Makaibari has earned global renown as one of the most expensive teas, a testament to the estate’s dedication to producing teas of unparalleled distinction.
Beyond its contributions to the world of tea, Makaibari is a sought-after tourist destination, inviting visitors to delve into the intricate art of tea-making against the backdrop of the breathtaking Darjeeling hills.
Makaibari Tea Estate is nestled in the Ghoom area of Darjeeling, West Bengal, India. Surrounded by lush greenery and panoramic Himalayan vistas, it's a haven for tea lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Established in 1891 by the British, Makaibari Tea Estate boasts a rich heritage. It has witnessed generations of tea planters and played a significant role in shaping Darjeeling's tea industry. The estate's name means "Monkey Land" in Nepali, hinting at the playful primates that once inhabited the area.
Makaibari Tea Estate specializes in Darjeeling's famed black teas, known for their delicate muscatel flavor and unique floral aroma. Some of their popular varieties include:
Absolutely! Makaibari Tea Estate welcomes visitors to experience the magic of Darjeeling tea firsthand. They offer various guided tours, including:
The estate is open for tours from Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.Tour fees vary depending on the type of tour chosen and may include additional experiences like tea tasting. It's best to contact the estate directly for current pricing and booking information.
Darjeeling offers a plethora of activities beyond exploring tea gardens. You can:
The ideal time to visit Darjeeling and Makaibari Tea Estate depends on your preferences:
Makaibari Tea Estate occasionally hosts special events and festivals, such as tea tastings, workshops, and cultural performances. It's worth checking their website or contacting them directly for upcoming events.With its rich heritage, stunning scenery, and exquisite teas, Makaibari Tea Estate promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Darjeeling.
The Makaibari Tea Estate ownership situation has been dynamic over the years, so the answer depends on the specific timeframe you're interested in. Here's a breakdown of the ownership history:1859 - 2014: The Makaibari Tea Estate was owned and managed by the Banerjee family for four generations. Rajah Banerjee (originally Swaraj Kumar Banerjee) was the fourth-generation planter and a pioneer in sustainable and organic tea production.2014 - 2017: While Rajah Banerjee remained Chairman of the company, the Luxmi Group, a Kolkata-based company with holdings in tea estates across India and Africa, acquired a majority stake in Makaibari in 2014.2017 - Present: In 2017, Rajah Banerjee and the Luxmi Group had disagreements about management practices, leading to Rajah's departure from the estate. Rudra Chatterjee, Chairman of the Luxmi Group, currently oversees Makaibari Tea Estate operations.Therefore, depending on the period you're interested in:
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