Chikmagalur Tea Plantation: A Refreshing Escape into Lush Estates

Tucked away in the foothills of the Western Ghats, Chikmagalur is best known as the birthplace of Indian coffee. Its misty mountains, aromatic estates, and cool climate have long made it a haven for coffee lovers. Beyond the celebrated beans, this charming Karnataka town also boasts a lesser-known yet thriving culture of tea cultivation—a secret worth discovering.

A close up shot of a worker sorting out the tea leaves from a wicker basket.
A view from above of a cup filled with tea leaves with a tea pot next to it.
A close up shot of a glass of tea with mint leaves on it kept on a ledge.

The Coffee Capital’s Hidden Tea Legacy


Chikmagalur’s association with coffee dates back to the 17th century, when Baba Budan, a Sufi saint, is believed to have brought coffee beans from Yemen and planted them in the nearby Baba Budangiri hills. Today, Chikmagalur is one of the highest producers of coffee in India, and the region’s lifestyle, cuisine, and even architecture have evolved around this crop. While the rolling hills and valleys are known for coffee, they also hide lush tea plantations, each telling its fascinating tale. These estates offer a serene, sustainable, and sensory-driven experience, distinct from the typical coffee trail.

An overview of a tea plantation with a few trees seen in between.
A worker spraying water through pipe to the tea shrubs as seen from afar.

Kelagur Tea Estate: Tradition in Every Sip


Location: Kelagur village, Mudigere taluk, Chikkamagaluru district | Distance from The Serai Chikmagalur: 55 km | Travel Time: 1.5 hours

One of the oldest tea estates in Karnataka, the Kelagur Tea Estate is a picturesque expanse spread over 1,000 acres. What sets it apart is its unwavering commitment to organic tea production, making it a leader in sustainable farming in the region. With an annual yield of over 750,000 kilograms of premium-quality tea, Kelagur blends productivity with purity.

Visitors can embark on immersive tours that unveil the estate’s traditional tea-making process—from hand-plucking the leaves to rolling, oxidising, and drying them in age-old facilities. The aromas of fresh leaves and the rhythmic clatter of processing machines evoke a sense of nostalgia and reverence for the art of tea-making. The estate’s tranquil location, away from tourist crowds, is ideal for those seeking authentic rural charm and a deeper connection with nature.

An overview of a tea estate with rolling hills and fog covering the entire land.
A view from afar of a tea estate in rolling hills with blue sky and small trees in view.

Goomankhan Tea Estate: Nature Meets Innovation


Location: Chikmagalur, Karnataka 577124 | Distance from The Serai Chikmagalur: 69 km | Travel Time: 2 hours

While Kelagur embodies tradition, Goomankhan Tea Estate represents the harmonious fusion of innovation and natural beauty. Renowned for its beautifully manicured tea trails, the estate offers paths laid out in graceful patterns, perfect for a peaceful walk or a photography session. The crisp air, panoramic views, and the serenity, broken only by the occasional birdsong or the rustling of leaves, make it an ideal retreat. Unlike its more conventional counterparts, Goomankhan embraces modern agricultural technologies, seamlessly blending progress with nature.

The estate employs mechanised harvesting methods, yet it retains the quality and essence of the tea, resulting in an increased yield. This balance of tradition and modernity offers a unique learning experience for visitors curious about how the tea industry is evolving in India. Whether sipping freshly brewed tea on a verandah overlooking the estate or chatting with local workers about the day’s harvest, Goomankhan invites you to slow down and savour the moment.

An overview of a tea estate in a rolling hill with fog cover all over the estate.
Swimming pool and exterior facade in late evening of The Serai, Chikmagalur.

Where to Stay: The Serai Chikmagalur

 
For those wanting to explore Chikmagalur’s tea trails in comfort and style, The Serai Chikmagalur offers a luxurious base. Nestled in a sprawling coffee plantation, this resort combines indulgent hospitality with proximity to Kelagur and Goomankhan estates. Guests can enjoy private villas, spa treatments, plantation walks, and gourmet dining—while being surrounded by the lush greenery defining this region. 

So, pack your bags, follow the winding mountain roads, and experience a unique escape at a tea estate in Chikmagalur, where the whispers of tea leaves and the rhythm of rolling hills guide you.

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