Nestled in an Indian mountain range, the Highest Tea Estate in the World offers stunning vistas and guided tours, a gem not to be missed.
Discovering Kolukkumalai, the Highest Tea Estate in the World
For those new to Indian dining etiquette, Kolukkumalai offers an entirely different adventure - a journey into one of the world's highest organic tea plantations nestled in the picturesque Western Ghats.
Located in the small municipality of the same name, Kolukkumalai is a refreshing alpine getaway, where temperatures rarely exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Perched at an elevation of 7,900 feet, it is higher than any peak east of the Mississippi, and the low-lying clouds that hover around 6,200 feet offer breathtaking views from this unique destination.
The Western Ghats, a mountain range stretching nearly 1,000 miles along India's western coast, is famous for its biodiversity. Home to 5,000 kinds of flowering plants, the region boasts an impressive array of flora, making Kolukkumalai a veritable garden of vibrant green-leafed tea plants.
Tamil Nadu, along with Karnataka and Kerala, are the most productive tea-growing regions in India, and Kolukkumalai holds the record for the highest tea estate in the world. The tea estate's main draws are the trekking through this lofty plantation, immersive tea estate experiences, breathtaking mountain vistas, jeep safaris, camping, and wellness activities suited to nature and adventure enthusiasts.
Trekking to Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
The trek to the tea estate is about 7-12 hours (around 11 km from Kurangani Village) and takes you through lush organic tea plantations, forests, and scenic mountain views at an elevation of about 2,160–2,280 meters. It is of intermediate difficulty and suitable for both beginners (with guidance) and experienced trekkers.
Sunrise and Sunset Viewing
Kolukkumalai Sunrise View Point offers stunning panoramic vistas of mountains and valleys. Many organize hikes or jeep safaris timed around spectacular sunrises and sunsets.
Exploring the Tea Estate and Factory
Visitors can roam the organic tea plantations, watch workers harvest and process tea leaves, take guided tours of the tea factory, and taste or purchase the high-quality Kolukkumalai tea directly at the source.
Jeep Safari and Off-Road Trips
Rugged jeep rides along steep, narrow, unpaved mountain roads offer exciting travel experiences, taking tourists deep into the hills and around the estate.
Camping and Bonfires
Some tours offer rustic tent campsites above the estate with amenities like prepared meals and evening bonfires, perfect for nature lovers.
Yoga and Wellness Retreats
Due to the isolation and beautiful natural surroundings, Kolukkumalai is becoming a destination for yoga and wellness retreats.
Getting There
The closest major airport to Kolukkumalai is Cochin International, located outside Kochi on the southwest coast. A direct drive from the airport to Kolukkumalai takes more than four hours. If taking a bus, head to the town of Suryanelli and hire a jeep for the final 40-minute drive.
However, the final leg up the mountain to Kolukkumalai can be affected by weather conditions, so it's essential to check the forecast before setting off.
Tamil Nadu's culinary traditions tend toward spicy and tangy foods, which pair well with black tea. So, after a day of adventure, you can enjoy a delicious meal that complements the unique flavour of Kolukkumalai tea.
Whether you're a seasoned trekker, a nature lover, or a tea connoisseur, Kolukkumalai offers an unforgettable experience for all.
- For those interested in lifestyle and travel, a visit to Kolukkumalai tea estate, the highest in the world, provides an exhilarating experience, offering trekking opportunities, jeep safaris, camping, and yoga retreats amidst breath-taking mountain vistas.
- As travel guides recommend, exploring the Kolukkumalai tea estate includes strolling through organic tea plantations, observing workers process tea leaves in the factory, and even tasting the exclusive Kolukkumalai tea - making it a must-visit destination for tea enthusiasts and travelers seeking unique travel experiences.
