India is a country of tea lovers. From a quick sip before work to dedicated tea time in the evening, this beverage is an important part of daily life. Be it ‘chai breaks’ or ‘conversations over chai’, for Indians, tea is as an emotion, rather than just a beverage.
Every year, International Tea Day is observed annually on May 21, to celebrate the beverage and its culture. While classics like ginger tea and masala chai are widely recognised and loved, India is home to a wide variety of regional teas, which are important to local culture and find a place among must-explore culinary experiences for tourists. These are either grown or consumed in different regions of the country. Here are some tea varieties you should know about.
Kashmiri Kahwa, Jammu and Kashmir
Kashmiri Kahwa is not only an integral part of the lives of locals in the Kashmir valley, but also a popular attraction for tourists. It is an aromatic green tea that features a blend of saffron, spices like cardamom, cinnamon and cloves, and nuts like almonds. Sometimes, rose petals are added for flavour.
Noon Chai, Jammu and Kashmir
Also referred to as Sheer chai, or Kashmiri pink tea, this traditional beverage made of green tea leaves, milk, baking soda and salt is a staple in Kashmiri culture. It is usually served with Kashmiri bread, and is especially consumed during winter months for warmth.
Butter Tea, Ladakh and Sikkim
A popular beverage in Tibet, butter tea is also consumed in some parts of India like Ladakh and Sikkim. Also called ‘Gur-Gur Cha’ in Ladakh, this tea is made of tea leaves, water, yak milk butter and salt.
Kangra Tea, Himachal Pradesh
This tea is grown in Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra district, which is also known as the ‘Tea Capital of North India’. It is available in both black and green variants, and is known for its unique aroma and flavour that has sweet undertones.
Assam Tea, Assam
Assam tea generally refers to the black tea grown in Assam, the largest tea-growing area in the world. Its smooth malty flavour and distinct colour has earned acclaim even beyond India.
Lebu Cha, Kolkata
Lebu Cha, which translates to lemon tea, is commonly consumed in Kolkata and other parts of West Bengal. It is a black tea infused with lemon, and flavoured with a blend of spices.
Darjeeling Tea, West Bengal
This is a popular variety of black tea in India, grown in the Darjeeling region of West Bengal. It is characterised by delicate floral or fruity aroma and distinct sweet flavour.
Irani Chai, Hyderabad
Irani chai, also called Hyderabadi dum chai, is popular in Hyderabad and also at Irani cafes in Mumbai. It is known for its creamy texture and flavour, and holds immense cultural significance.
Nilgiri Tea, South India
This tea is grown in the Nilgiri Hills in South India, spanning Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala. Nilgiri tea is known for its lively fragrance and well-rounded flavour featuring fruity notes.
Sulaimani Chai, Kerala
The Sulaimani Chai is popular in Kerala, especially the Malabar region. It is a black tea infused with spices like cardamom and cinnamon. Ginger or mint leaves are sometimes added for flavour. It is prepared without milk.