tea producing states in india

Tea Producing States in India: Top Regions, Types, and Key Insights

Published on June 17, 2025
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10 Min read time

Quick Summary

  • India is the world’s second-largest tea producer, with tea being both a cultural staple and economic pillar, supporting millions of livelihoods.
  • Assam leads tea production, followed by West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, each contributing unique flavors like malty Assam black tea and floral Darjeeling varieties.
  • The industry faces climate change and labor issues, but also sees rising opportunities in organic teas, export growth, and government-supported innovations.

Table of Contents

Tea is more than just a drink in India; it’s a cherished tradition, a daily comfort, and a vital contributor to the economy. As the world’s second-largest producer and consumer of tea, tea producing states in India play a crucial role in the global tea industry. From early morning chai stalls to elegant tea rooms, the beverage is deeply woven into the fabric of Indian life.

The country’s diverse geography, from Darjeeling’s misty hills to Assam’s fertile plains, creates ideal conditions for cultivating a wide range of teas. Each region brings unique flavors and characteristics, making Indian tea a product and an experience. Over ten Indian states grow tea, supporting millions of livelihoods and shaping regional identities.

In this article, we’ll explore the top tea producing states in India, understand the different types of tea grown, and highlight major tea companies that shape the market. We’ll also examine the industry’s challenges and the emerging opportunities in organic and specialty teas. Let’s dive into India’s fascinating tea landscape.

tea producing states in india

Tea Producing States in India: An Overview

India is a tea powerhouse, producing over 1.3 billion kilograms of tea annually. This remarkable output places India among the top tea-producing countries in the world, second only to China. The country’s diverse geography, ranging from humid plains to misty hills, combined with tropical and subtropical climates, creates ideal conditions for growing various types of tea. Fertile soils, consistent rainfall, and varying elevations across the tea producing states in India allow year-round cultivation in multiple regions.

Tea is not just an agricultural product in India; it’s a livelihood for millions. The tea producing states in India directly employ over two million workers, many of whom are women, and support countless others through allied sectors like transportation, marketing, packaging, and export. India’s tea reaches over 100 international markets, including major consumers such as the United Kingdom, Russia, and the United States, making it a crucial player in the global tea trade.

Highest Tea Producing States in India

Assam leads the nation in tea production, contributing over 50% of India’s total output. Assam’s lowland valleys and high humidity in the country’s northeastern part provide perfect growing conditions. The region is famed for its bold, strong-flavored black tea, a staple in households and exports. Central districts like Dibrugarh, Tinsukia, and Jorhat are at the heart of this production, with large estates and traditional know-how. Assam’s dominance in volume and reputation firmly establishes it as the highest tea producing state in India and a cornerstone of the country’s tea legacy.

Top Tea Producing States in India

India’s diverse geography and climate make it one of the world’s leading tea producers, with several tea producing states in India cultivating distinct varieties. Each tea-producing region contributes uniquely to India’s rich tea heritage and economic landscape.

1. Assam – The Tea City of India

Assam, fondly known as the tea city of India, is the heartland of Indian tea production. Located in the country’s northeastern part, this state contributes over 50% of India’s total tea output. The region is celebrated globally for its bold and malty black teas, which form the base for many breakfast blends, including the popular English Breakfast tea.

Assam Tea Plantation

The Assam tea plantations are a sprawling network of lush green estates, often covering thousands of acres. The state’s hot and humid climate and rich alluvial soil create the perfect environment for producing intensely flavorful, bright-colored teas.

  • Tea Type: Strong-flavored black tea
  • Key Districts: Dibrugarh, Tinsukia, Jorhat
  • Economy: Employs over a million workers across various sectors
  • Notable Brands: Assam Tea, Halmari Tea

Assam’s influence extends beyond volume; the state sets quality benchmarks and houses some of the world’s oldest and most prestigious tea estates.

2. West Bengal – Home of Darjeeling Tea

Thanks to Darjeeling tea, West Bengal stands tall in the global tea landscape, often dubbed the “Champagne of Teas.” Grown in the foothills of the Himalayas, Darjeeling tea is known for its delicate flavor and floral aroma. The Dooars region, located in the northern part of the state, also contributes significantly to the state’s production.

  • Tea Type: Delicate black and oolong teas
  • Key Regions: Darjeeling, Dooars
  • Unique Varieties: First flush, second flush, and muscatel flavor teas
  • Notable Brands: Makaibari, Goodricke

Darjeeling tea has earned Geographical Indication (GI) status, making it one of India’s most prestigious and protected exports.

3. Tamil Nadu – Nilgiris Region

Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiri Hills are home to some of the finest high-altitude teas in India. The estates around Coonoor and Ooty produce teas known for their fragrance, smooth flavor, and bright liquor.

  • Tea Type: Nilgiri black and green teas
  • Specialty: Aromatic teas with floral notes and a light, brisk character
  • Economic Role: Supports thousands of small and medium tea growers

Nilgiri teas are especially valued for blending due to their consistent quality and bright color. The region also contributes to India’s growing specialty and flavored tea exports.

4. Kerala – High-Elevation Plantations

In Kerala, tea is primarily grown in Wayanad, Idukki, and Munnar. These hilly regions are covered with mist and experience high rainfall, making them perfect for cultivating fragrant and light teas.

  • Tea Type: Light black and green teas
  • Key Features: High elevation and organic farming methods
  • Famous Gardens: Kanan Devan Hills, Kolukkumalai (world’s highest tea plantation)

Kerala’s tea gardens are also a popular tourist attraction, offering scenic beauty and insights into sustainable tea farming practices.

5. Karnataka

While not as prominent as Assam or Darjeeling, Karnataka’s Coorg district has made a mark in India’s tea production map. The region is known for its organic and blended teas, cultivated in the biodiverse Western Ghats.

  • Tea Type: Organic blends and flavored teas
  • Focus: Sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices

Karnataka is gaining recognition for its unique teas and is well-positioned to benefit from the rising global demand for organic and artisanal teas.

6. Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh, particularly the Kangra Valley, has a rich tea legacy dating back to the British era. The cool climate and undulating terrain are ideal for cultivating green and orthodox black teas.

  • Tea Type: Green tea and orthodox black tea
  • Legacy: Tea cultivation since the mid-19th century

Kangra tea has also received GI status, helping preserve its authenticity and boosting its appeal in domestic and export markets.

7. Tripura

One of the emerging tea producers in India, Tripura is gradually gaining attention for its climate-resilient and organic tea cultivation. With increasing government support, tea plantations in the state are expanding.

  • Tea Type: CTC (Crush-Tear-Curl) black tea
  • Note: Strong focus on organic farming and export readiness

Tripura’s tea is finding buyers in neighboring countries and niche global markets seeking sustainably grown products.

8. Arunachal Pradesh

Tea cultivation in Arunachal Pradesh is still in its early stages but holds immense potential. The state’s pristine environment and high-altitude conditions are ideal for producing high-quality, small-batch teas.

  • Tea Type: Premium green and white teas
  • Production: Limited in volume but high in quality

Arunachal teas are known for their freshness and unique taste; specialty tea buyers increasingly seek them out.

9. Sikkim

The Temi Tea Garden in Sikkim is the state’s only tea estate, but is highly regarded for producing organic black tea of exceptional quality. Temi tea is widely exported to Europe and Japan, where it enjoys a premium status.

  • Tea Type: Organic black tea
  • Exports: High demand in niche international markets

Sikkim’s commitment to organic farming ensures that its tea meets the highest purity and environmental responsibility standards.

10. Nagaland

Nagaland has recently entered the tea production landscape with community-based initiatives and state-supported development programs. The hilly terrain and rich biodiversity offer the right conditions for tea cultivation.

  • Tea Type: Emerging varieties of black and green teas
  • Development: New plantations and local cooperative models

Though still a small player, Nagaland is building momentum and has the potential to become a notable name in India’s northeastern tea corridor.

These ten states form the backbone of India’s diverse and thriving tea industry. Each region brings unique character, climate, and cultivation techniques, enriching the country’s tea heritage. Whether it’s Assam’s robust flavors or Darjeeling’s delicate notes, the tea producing states in India offer a sensory journey through geography, culture, and craftsmanship.

Types of Tea in India

India offers a broad spectrum of teas shaped by regional climate, elevation, soil conditions, and traditional processing methods found across various tea producing states in India. From bold black teas to soothing herbal blends, the country’s tea landscape is as diverse as its culture. Here’s a detailed look at the significant types of tea produced in India.

Black Tea

Black tea is India’s most widely consumed tea, known for its bold flavor and dark color. Assam’s strong black tea is the backbone of India’s chai culture, while Darjeeling’s orthodox black tea is prized globally for its muscatel aroma.

  1. Regions: Assam, Darjeeling, Nilgiris
  2. Flavors: Varies from robust and malty (Assam) to delicate and floral (Darjeeling)
  3. Variants:
    • CTC (Crush-Tear-Curl): Common in Assam, ideal for milk tea
    • Orthodox: Whole-leaf tea with nuanced flavors, often exported

Green Tea

Green tea is gaining popularity across India because of its light, refreshing taste and numerous health benefits. It is sourced from the Himalayan foothills, especially Kangra and Sikkim, and is valued for its purity and subtle flavor.

  • Regions: Kangra Valley (Himachal Pradesh), Sikkim, Kerala
  • Features: Grassy, vegetal notes with a clean finish
  • Health Benefits: High in antioxidants, supports metabolism, and aids in detox

White Tea

White tea is the most delicate and least processed among all tea types. Due to its limited production and labor-intensive processing, white tea is rare and often considered a luxury item.

  • Regions: Darjeeling, Assam
  • Features: Subtle, sweet flavor; pale golden liquor
  • Processing: Made from young buds, it is hand-picked and sun-dried

Oolong Tea

This semi-oxidized tea bridges the gap between black and green tea.

  • Regions: Select gardens in Darjeeling
  • Taste: Smooth, complex, with floral and fruity notes
  • Unique Appeal: Artisanal production, primarily for niche markets and exports

Herbal and Specialty Teas

These caffeine-free blends are infused with Indian herbs and spices for wellness benefits. India’s specialty teas are becoming global favorites for their functional benefits and Ayurvedic roots.

  • Popular Additions: Tulsi (holy basil), lemongrass, chamomile, ginger
  • Growing Trend: Focused on health, detox, and relaxation

Famous Tea Companies in India

India’s tea industry thrives not only because of its diverse geography and rich history but also due to the efforts of well-established tea companies across the tea producing states in India. These enterprises range from multinational giants to regional champions and organic specialists, each playing a crucial role in shaping the country’s tea legacy. They contribute significantly to employment, export revenue, and India’s global image as a leading tea producer.

1. Tata Consumer Products

Tata is one of the most prominent players in the Indian tea market. Tata has revolutionized the tea market with consumer-focused innovations and advertising campaigns.

  • Brands: Tata Tea (including Gold, Premium, Agni), Tetley
  • Reach: Extensive domestic presence and strong international distribution

2. Wagh Bakri

Popular in western and northern India, Wagh Bakri offers a wide variety of teas catering to different tastes and budgets.

  • Known for: Premium blends and affordable daily-use teas
  • USP: Loyal customer base and wide regional presence

3. Brooke Bond (Hindustan Unilever Ltd – HUL)

Brooke Bond is one of India’s most trusted tea brands under the HUL umbrella. It is known for its heritage, quality, and iconic advertising.

  • Brands: Red Label, Taj Mahal
  • Market: Nationwide reach and significant export footprint

4. Organic India

A pioneer in herbal and wellness teas.

  • Focus: Tulsi-based infusions, organic green teas
  • Niche: Health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers

5. Goodricke Group

An old and prestigious company with a strong presence in Darjeeling and Assam.

  • Estates: Castleton, Margaret’s Hope
  • Specialties: High-grade orthodox and single-origin teas

These companies shape India’s tea narrative and uplift rural communities through employment and sustainable practices.

Comparative Table of Top States

StateProduction VolumeFamous Tea TypeKey DistrictsExport Contribution
AssamHighestBlackDibrugarh, JorhatVery High
West Bengal2ndDarjeeling, OolongDarjeeling, DooarsHigh
Tamil Nadu3rdNilgiriCoonoor, OotyModerate
Kerala4thLight black, greenMunnar, IdukkiModerate
Himachal PradeshLowerGreenKangraLow

Among the tea producing states in India, Assam leads in production volume and export value, while West Bengal is renowned for its premium Darjeeling tea. Tamil Nadu and Kerala add diversity with their aromatic Nilgiri and light teas. Though states like Himachal Pradesh and Sikkim produce lower volumes, they contribute unique, high-quality teas to niche markets.

tea producing states in india

Challenges and Opportunities in the Indian Tea Industry

While globally renowned, the Indian tea industry, especially in key tea producing states in India, faces a mix of persistent challenges and emerging opportunities. These factors are shaping the country’s future of tea cultivation, production, and trade.

Challenges

  1. Climate Change- Unpredictable weather patterns, rising temperatures, and irregular rainfall disrupt tea cultivation cycles. These environmental changes affect tea leaves’ yield and quality, especially in sensitive regions like Assam and Darjeeling.
  2. Pest Infestation- Warmer climates have increased pest populations, compelling farmers to use more chemical pesticides. This raises production costs and affects the health and sustainability of the soil and plants.
  3. Labor Issues- The industry is labor-intensive, yet wages remain low, leading to dissatisfaction and frequent strikes. Younger generations are increasingly unwilling to take up tea plantation work, resulting in a labor shortage.

Opportunities

  1. Organic Tea- With growing global awareness about health and sustainability, the demand for organic and chemical-free teas is rising. This presents a lucrative opportunity for Indian growers, especially in states like Sikkim and Tripura.
  2. Export Potential- Despite being one of the top tea producers, India’s exports have room to grow. Untapped markets in Africa, the Middle East, and East Asia offer promising avenues.
  3. Branding and Packaging- Indian teas have heritage and quality; improved branding, storytelling, and premium packaging can elevate value-added exports.

Government Initiatives

The Tea Board of India actively supports the industry through:

  • Export promotion schemes
  • Research and development funding
  • Skill development and welfare programs for small growers and laborers

With strategic focus, India’s tea industry can overcome its hurdles and achieve sustainable growth.

Conclusion

India’s tea landscape reflects the country’s rich cultural and geographical diversity. Each of the tea producing states in India contributes uniquely to India’s vibrant tea heritage, from Assam’s strong and malty brews to Darjeeling’s floral delicacies. Assam continues to lead as the highest tea-producing state, while other regions like West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala add depth and variety to India’s tea offerings.

However, the tea producing states in India face modern challenges like climate change, labor shortages, and market saturation. To remain competitive and sustainable, Indian tea producers must embrace innovation, organic farming, and strategic branding. With growing global interest in health-conscious and specialty teas, there is tremendous potential for Indian teas in new and emerging markets.

Supported by government initiatives and a strong domestic base, the tea producing states in India are well-positioned to strengthen their global standing. The future of Indian tea lies in blending tradition with innovation while preserving the legacy that makes it world-renowned.

Read More: Crop Seasons in India

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

Which state is the largest producer of tea in India?

Assam leads tea production in India, contributing over 50% of the nation’s total output. The fertile Brahmaputra Valley and humid climate create ideal conditions for cultivating robust, high-quality teas globally renowned for their rich, malty flavor.

How many states are generally known as tea producing states?

India is home to several prominent tea-producing states, with Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, and Tripura leading the list. These regions are known for their favorable climates and diverse terrains, ideal for cultivating various types of tea.

Which is the tea capital of India?

Assam, the largest tea-producing state in India, contributes over 50% of the nation’s output. Jorhat is hailed as the “Tea Capital of the World,” while Dibrugarh is popularly known as the “Tea City of India” for its rich heritage.

Who invented tea in India?

The British introduced tea to India in the 19th century to challenge China’s dominance in the tea trade. Robert Bruce’s discovery of wild tea plants in Assam played a key role in establishing India’s now-thriving tea industry.

Which country is number 1 in tea?

China is the world’s largest tea producer, known for its diverse range of green, black, oolong, and white teas. With a rich tea culture and ideal growing conditions, it leads globally in both production and exports.

Authored by, Amay Mathur | Senior Editor

Amay Mathur is a business news reporter at Chegg.com. He previously worked for PCMag, Business Insider, The Messenger, and ZDNET as a reporter and copyeditor. His areas of coverage encompass tech, business, strategy, finance, and even space. He is a Columbia University graduate.

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