Brews, Views and Beyond: Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel Curate India’s Most Refreshing Tea-Inspired Escapes

As the world celebrates World Tea Day, tea tourism is emerging as one of the fastest-growing experiential travel trends among Indian consumers. Recognising this growing interest for experiential domestic holidays, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel have curated a selection of India’s most refreshing tea-inspired getaways that blend relaxation, discovery and authentic local experiences.

Munnar, Kerala
- Rolling tea plantations, misty hills, Ayurvedic wellness.
- Best time: Sept–Mar.
- Experiences: Tea tours, tastings, trekking, spice gardens, waterfall hopping.

Darjeeling, West Bengal
- Iconic estates, colonial charm, Kanchenjunga views.
- Best time: Mar–May, Oct–Dec.
- Experiences: Toy train rides, Tiger Hill sunrise, monastery tours, café hopping.

Assam
- World’s largest tea estates, wildlife & river cruises.
- Best time: Nov–Apr.
- Experiences: Tea trails, Brahmaputra cruises, Kaziranga safaris, cultural immersion.

Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu
- Ooty & Coonoor tea gardens, heritage bungalows, cool climate.
- Best time: Oct–Jun.
- Experiences: Nilgiri Mountain Railway, factory visits, trekking, camping.

Palampur, Himachal Pradesh
- Kangra Valley tea gardens, Dhauladhar backdrop.
- Best time: Mar–Jun, Sept–Nov.
- Experiences: Estate walks, paragliding at Bir-Billing, monastery visits, hiking.

Wayanad, Kerala
- Plantation landscapes, forests, waterfalls, eco-tourism.
- Best time: Oct–May.
- Experiences: Plantation stays, trekking, bamboo rafting, wildlife spotting, camping.

Key Trend
Tea tourism is evolving into immersive experiential travel — blending nature, wellness, culture, and storytelling. These curated escapes highlight India’s diverse landscapes while offering meaningful, slow-living retreats.