Tea & Coffee Plantations in Kerala: Best Estates to Visit

Kerala, known for its lush green landscapes and breathtaking hill stations, is home to some of India’s finest tea and coffee plantations. The cool climate, rolling hills, and rich soil create the perfect environment for cultivating high-quality tea and coffee. From the sprawling tea estates of Munnar to the aromatic coffee plantations of Wayanad, these plantations offer visitors an opportunity to witness the art of tea and coffee production while enjoying the serene beauty of Kerala’s countryside.

In this article, we explore some of the best tea and coffee estates to visit in Kerala, detailing their history, attractions, and visitor experiences.

Tea Plantations in Kerala

1. Kolukkumalai Tea Estate

Location: Munnar
Best Time to Visit: September to May
Key Attractions: Traditional tea processing, panoramic sunrise views

Kolukkumalai Tea Estate is the highest tea plantation in the world, situated at an altitude of over 7,900 feet. The estate is known for its orthodox tea, which is processed using traditional methods passed down through generations. A visit here includes a guided tour of the factory, where visitors can witness tea leaves being processed manually. The highlight of the visit is the breathtaking sunrise view, which offers a mesmerizing landscape of mist-covered hills and valleys.

2. Tata Tea Museum & Kanan Devan Hills Plantation

Location: Munnar
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Key Attractions: Tea museum, historical exhibits, tea tasting

Located in the heart of Munnar, the Tata Tea Museum provides insights into the history of tea production in Kerala. Visitors can explore old tea-processing machinery, photographs, and artifacts that showcase the evolution of the industry. The adjacent Kanan Devan Hills Plantation offers tea-tasting sessions and plantation walks, where visitors can experience the lush tea gardens up close.

3. Lockhart Tea Estate

Location: Munnar
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Key Attractions: Guided plantation tours, heritage factory visit

Lockhart Tea Estate is one of the oldest tea plantations in Munnar, dating back to the colonial era. The estate offers guided tours through its lush tea gardens, followed by a visit to the heritage tea factory, where visitors can learn about traditional tea processing techniques. The estate’s picturesque setting makes it a favorite among photographers and nature lovers.

Coffee Plantations in Kerala

4. Wayanad Coffee Plantations

Location: Wayanad
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Key Attractions: Organic coffee farming, plantation homestays

Wayanad is renowned for its aromatic coffee plantations that produce some of the finest Arabica and Robusta beans. Many estates here follow organic and sustainable farming practices, allowing visitors to witness eco-friendly coffee cultivation. Several coffee estates in Wayanad offer homestay experiences, where guests can immerse themselves in plantation life while enjoying freshly brewed coffee.

5. Chikmagalur-Inspired Coffee Estates in Idukki

Location: Idukki
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Key Attractions: Coffee processing tours, spice plantations

Idukki’s high-altitude coffee estates draw inspiration from Karnataka’s famous Chikmagalur region, producing top-quality coffee beans. Many of these estates combine coffee cultivation with spice farming, giving visitors a chance to explore pepper, cardamom, and vanilla plantations as well. Guided tours provide insights into coffee harvesting and processing, culminating in a tasting session of freshly brewed coffee.

6. Thekkady Coffee & Spice Plantations

Location: Thekkady
Best Time to Visit: September to March
Key Attractions: Coffee and spice tour, elephant rides, eco-tourism

Thekkady is famous for its spice plantations, but it also boasts thriving coffee estates. Visitors can enjoy a combined tour of coffee and spice gardens, learning about the intricate processes of growing and harvesting coffee beans. Some estates even offer eco-tourism experiences, including guided walks, elephant rides, and farm-to-table dining.

Unique Experiences at Kerala’s Tea & Coffee Estates

7. Tea & Coffee Tasting Sessions

Most plantations in Kerala offer tea and coffee tasting experiences, where visitors can sample different varieties and learn about the subtle differences in flavor, aroma, and processing methods.

8. Stay at a Plantation Bungalow

For an immersive experience, many estates offer accommodation in heritage bungalows surrounded by lush plantations. These stays provide a peaceful retreat with stunning views, fresh air, and the soothing aroma of tea or coffee.

9. Adventure & Nature Walks

Many plantations are located in hilly terrains that offer excellent trekking and nature walk opportunities. Guided treks allow visitors to explore the scenic beauty of the estates while learning about their history and cultivation techniques.

Conclusion

Kerala’s tea and coffee plantations offer a blend of scenic beauty, history, and rich flavors, making them must-visit destinations for travelers. Whether you are savoring a cup of freshly brewed coffee in Wayanad or enjoying the panoramic views from Kolukkumalai, each plantation visit promises a unique and unforgettable experience. Plan your trip to these beautiful estates and indulge in the finest tea and coffee Kerala has to offer.