India is one of the largest tea producers in the world, with notable tea estates in Darjeeling, Assam, Nilgiri, and more. These estates produce some of the finest tea varieties, such as Darjeeling’s “Champagne of teas.” Visitors can explore the plantations, enjoy tea tasting tours, and learn about the history and production processes.

The preparation and types of tea vary across regions. For instance, in the northeast, especially Assam, people prefer strong, black tea, while in the south, Tamil Nadu’s “filter coffee” culture competes with tea. The famous “Kashmiri Kahwa” is a spiced green tea from the north, and “Masala chai” is a staple across many states.

Tea, or “chai,” is more than just a beverage in India; it’s an integral part of social life. Chai is typically made with strong black tea, milk, sugar, and spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger. Street vendors, or “chaiwalas,” sell it everywhere from busy markets to train stations. Tea drinking is often a communal activity, with friends and family gathering around to chat over a cup of chai.