Must-Visit Tea Havens in Asia

Embark on a sensory journey through Asia’s storied tea regions, where the delicate aromas and rich flavors of this beloved beverage have been cultivated for centuries. From the mist-shrouded peaks of Sri Lanka to the ancient tea gardens of China, these five destinations offer a rare glimpse into the world of tea, each with its own distinct character and heritage that every discerning tea enthusiast should experience.

1. Nuwara Eliya

Sri Lanka

Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s central highlands, 171 kilometers from Colombo, Nuwara Eliya is renowned for its world-class tea plantations. Often hailed as the “Champagne of Ceylon,” the area’s teas reflect the island’s centuries-old mastery of tea cultivation. The cool climate and high altitude create the ideal conditions for producing black teas with bright, citrusy notes and a lasting, fragrant finish. A visit here is an invitation to experience the art of tea in its purest form.

Inspired to visit Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka? Fly to Colombo with Thai Airways

2. Darjeeling

India

Set against the backdrop of the eastern Himalayas, Darjeeling is the birthplace of one of the world’s most celebrated teas. Darjeeling tea, grown in the mineral-rich soil of the region, is prized for its delicate and complex flavors. The “first flush” (from late February to April) yields a tea characterized by a golden hue, accompanied by a delicate floral fragrance and a naturally sweet flavor, while the “second flush” (from May to June) yields a deeper amber infusion, tinged with fruity, spicy notes.

Let’s plan to visit Darjeeling. Fly to India with Thai Airways

3. Cameron Highlands

Malaysia

Malaysia’s largest tea-producing region, Cameron Highlands offers a tranquil escape with its sprawling tea plantations. Black tea is among the most renowned offerings. The region’s cool, high-altitude climate and acidic soil create a unique terroir that produces tea with a bold, captivating aroma. Known for its distinctive flavor, Cameron Highlands tea is a perfect blend of strength and subtlety, making it a standout among Malaysia’s tea offerings.

Ready to explore Cameron Highlands? Fly to Kuala Lumpur with Thai Airways

4. Yunnan Province

China

Yunnan Province, a time-honored tea-growing region, boasts a rich history of tea cultivation that spans several centuries. It is also the birthplace of Pu’er or Pu-erh tea, the world-renowned Chinese tea that undergoes a unique fermentation process. The longer it is aged, the more refined and smooth its flavor becomes. Revered not only for its taste, Pu-erh tea is also celebrated for its numerous health benefits, including its ability to regulate blood sugar levels, detoxify the body, and possess antioxidants that fight off harmful free radicals. Its fragrance, delicate and earthy, evokes the scent of wild mushrooms, wood, or herbs, offering an aromatic experience deeply rooted in nature.

Experience Pu’er tea’s charm. Fly to Kunming with Thai Airways

5. Mae Hong Son

Thailand

Ban Rak Thai is a picturesque Yunnanese Chinese village nestled in Mae Hong Son, renowned for its cultivation of premium Oolong tea, specifically the dew-picked variety. Harvested only once a year during the winter months when the morning dew settles, this exceptional tea is celebrated for its delicate, smooth flavor and distinctive aroma, which subtly varies from year to year. Ideal for connoisseurs who appreciate a fragrant tea with a refined, not overly bold taste, it offers a unique and memorable tasting experience.

Discover Ban Rak Thai, Mae Hong Son. Fly to Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai with Thai Airways