Our Tea Estates - Happy Valley Tea

Under the skillful direction of Mr. Sushil Kumar Agarwal of the MLA Group, Lemongrass Organic Tea Estates Pvt. Ltd. (LOTEPL) has been able to resuscitate the ailing tea gardens with an aim to develop these tea estates well-integrated, self-sustaining, ecologically balanced, and economically viable tea gardens.

We are proud biodynamic organic tea producers. In addition to improving the soil and ecology, biodynamic farming has also looked after the health of those who live and work in tea gardens. In our farms, we operate in accordance with the rhythms of nature, preserving the earth’s genetic makeup while fostering a robust and healthy eco system. Our famous teas’ celebrated leaf quality is enhanced by our biodynamic and organic agriculture practices.

Ambootia (1861)

Ambootia Tea Estate was founded in 1861 by the English Darjeeling Tea Company and was acquired by Indian businessmen in 1954, following India’s independence from Britain in 1947. It is the second-largest Darjeeling Tea producing garden in India and was one of the first tea estates built by British tea growers in the 1850s.

The Place of the Mango Trees

The name “Ambootia” is derived from “Am-butia,” which in the Darjeeling region’s Tibetan Lepcha dialect means “place of the mango trees.” Our garden is nestled in the beautiful Himalayas’ hazy heights. Ambootia was chosen by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (UN-FAO) as a Model Organic Farm.

Through nature’s cycles for 162 years
At Ambootia, growing tea in accordance with the cycles of nature has been a way of life. A singular geographic phenomena is created by the interactions of the climate, elevation, and latitudinal elements; when Ambootia Tea is grown under these rare circumstances, it takes on its distinctive features. This is the outcome of 162 years of expertise and a dedication to excellence, elevating the production process to the level of fine art.

Chongtong (1869)

The legendary-tasting tea estate was established by a British Planter in 1869 and passed through various owners before it was recently acquired by LOTEPL.

The Place of the Arrowhead

Chongtong means ‘arrow head’ in the local dialect, a name that comes from the shape of the garden location, which lies at the junction of two streams.

Exceptional for its quality
Picturesque Darjeeling East’s rolling hills are where Chongtong is nestled. The tea estate is fortunate to have a highly unique soil and climate combination that enhances the quality of its teas. The concentration of flavour in the bushes is influenced by its climatic conditions.

Happy Valley (1854)

The Second Oldest Tea Estate in Darjeeling, and the most iconic one, holds a significant place in history of the Darjeeling Tea. Originally named Wilson Tea Estate after the Englishman David Wilson, it later merged with the adjacent Windsor Tea Estate in 1929 to create the renowned Happy Valley Tea Estate.

A History Entwined with that of Tea

Nestled amidst the mist-laden atmosphere, Happy Valley enjoys a picturesque setting, overlooking the fertile foothills of the majestic Himalayas. Situated in Darjeeling, this verdant estate stands as one of the highest tea plantations globally, with some of its tea bushes dating back 150 years.

Respect for nature is in our DNA

Deeply ingrained in our ethos is a profound respect for nature, evident in our commitment to organic and bio-dynamic farming practices. The estate’s first and second flush Darjeeling teas have earned worldwide acclaim, eagerly anticipated by tea enthusiasts. For those seeking an immersive experience, a guided tour of the Happy Valley tea factory unveils the captivating journey of tea manufacturing. It is no wonder that this enchanting destination ranks among the Top 10 Most Visited Tourist Places in Darjeeling.

Monteviot (1856)

A Garden on a Rock

Just below the town of Kurseong in district Darjeeling is the quaint Monteviot tea estate; the name comes from the French and means ‘rock’. On a clear day you can enjoy the glorious Kanchenjunga from this vantage point.

The finest organically grown leaf, garden packed

Monteviot is closely planted with high quality tea bushes. We carefully craft the fresh and healthy leaf is into exquisite Darjeeling teas brimming with flavour. As early as 1940, Monteviot created a first by packaging tea at the estate and marketing it in retail – a practice that we hold even today.

Mullootar (1870)

A Plateau Garlanded by Bamboo

Mullootar is surrounded by bamboo shoots known as Mala-bas; the short plant internodes resemble a garland of beads. A flat, plateau like area, in the Lepcha language is ‘Tar’. Thus, was born the name ‘Malla-tar’ which was later anglicized to ‘Mullootar’.

Home to the first organic teas in Asia

This unspoilt plantation grows purity and floral flavour in the many delightful cups that have served tea lovers well, the world over. This is 100% organic tea.

Moondakotee (1862)

The Moon’s Abode

This historic garden, founded in 1862, is located on a spur that connects Darjeeling East with the Kurseong Valleys. The name Moondakotee, which is tucked away in the gentle hills of the north Kurseong valley, translates to “moon’s residence.” At these locations, the moon spends a considerable amount of time bathing the garden in its shimmering light, infusing the tea plants with water that is powered by the moon.

Intrinsic Darjeeling flavour

The Moondakotee teas are nuanced with a particular tint to it’s intrinsic Darjeeling flavour for good cause.

Nagri (1870)

Earlier known as Mangarjung Tea Garden, it was rechristened Nagri.

Blossoming in the Mists

Cocooned in the misty environs of the Mirik Valley. The gently rolling hills create sweeping views of the endless lush green tea bushes while colourful orchids heighten the charm.

A remarkable home of nature
Since the gardens were first planted, the fine Nagri teas grown in these idyllic surroundings have brought their delicacy and brightness to tea drinkers. The wholesome organic teas have a soothing flowery flavour, unique to these valleys.

Sivitar (1870)

The Abode of Lord Shiva

One of the hills in the estate has a river flowing along the base, reminiscent of the ‘Shiva Lingam’, which gives the lush green property its name. Sivitar is located in the Kurseong sub district of Darjeeling and the crystal waters of the Mahanadi River, nourishes the fertile mountain soil which reflects in the fresh, floral taste of the tea..

With an abundance of growth

The leaves harvested from the vibrant bushes are processed into teas that are mature, well-rounded and flavorful.

Sepoydhoorah (1870)

Cradled in Scenic Beauty

The idyllic hills of Kurseong south embrace this estate, which is also known as Chamling Tea Estate. The environmentally conscious way of life in the garden results in a holistic approach to cultivation.

Rooted in bio-dynamic farming

Here the teas are as wholesome and organic as the pure air and soil that they grow in. Quintessentially the finest Darjeeling.

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Ambootia (1861)

4000 ft

967

348

150 MT

Chongtong (1869)

5900 ft

778.78

376

150 MT

Happy Valley (1854)

6,889.76 ft

176.31

122.38

35 MT

Monteviot (1856)

2,919.95 ft

77.65

59.91

18 MT

Mullootar (1870)

2,066.93 ft

354.30

172.69

80 MT

Moondakotee (1862)

4000 ft

525.02

298.78

130 MT

Nagri (1870)

5400 ft

544

322

150 MT

Sivitar (1870)

2,919.95 ft

229.84

148.92

65 MT

Sepoydhoorah (1870)

2,296.59 ft

272.37

138.66

60 MT