Nepal is gaining recognition as a producer of high-quality teas that rival some of the best in the world. If you're curious about Nepali tea, here are 10 must-know facts:
Q1. Which district in Nepal produces the most tea?
The biggest tea-producing district in Nepal is Jhapa, known for its large-scale CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) tea production. However, Ilam is the largest producer of loose-leaf orthodox tea, prized for its high-altitude cultivation.
Q2. What types of tea are made in Nepal?
Nepal produces four main types of tea:
- Black Tea – Full-bodied with floral and muscatel notes.
- Green Tea – Fresh, grassy, and slightly astringent.
- White Tea – Delicate and sweet with minimal processing.
- Oolong Tea – A balance between green and black, with complex flavors.
Q3. What makes Nepali tea different from other teas?
Nepali tea is grown in high-altitude, small-scale farms, which enhances its flavor complexity. The teas are often hand-picked and minimally processed, resulting in brighter, fresher, and more aromatic profiles than mass-produced teas.
Q4. Is Nepali tea the same as Darjeeling tea?
While Nepali tea and Darjeeling tea share similarities, especially in flavor and terroir, they are distinct. Nepali teas often have a brighter, more floral, and crisp taste due to higher elevations and fresher processing. Plus, Nepali teas tend to be more affordable for the same quality.
Q5. Are Nepali teas organic or certified organic?
Many Nepali teas are organically grown, but not all have official certification. Small-scale tea farmers are working toward organic certification, and some estates have already achieved it.
Q6. Which Nepali teas are the most popular or prized?
Some of Nepal’s most prized teas include:
- Himalayan Golden Tips – A premium black tea with honeyed sweetness.
- Himalayan White – A delicate, floral white tea.
- Nepal Oolong – Smooth and complex with fruity notes.
- Hand-Rolled Green Tea – Fresh, grassy, and full of antioxidants.
Q7. What’s the best Nepali green tea to drink?
For green tea lovers, Himalayan Green and Himalayan Pearl are top choices. They offer a crisp, grassy flavor with floral undertones, making them refreshing and antioxidant-rich options.
Q8. Does Nepal have a tea auction market?
Unlike India’s Darjeeling Tea Auction, Nepal does not yet have a formal auction system. However, the industry is working toward establishing a centralized tea auction to help farmers get better prices and recognition.
Q9. Why isn’t Nepali tea more famous worldwide?
Despite producing world-class tea, Nepal faces limited branding and international exposure. Many Nepali teas are rebranded and sold as Darjeeling tea. However, awareness is growing, and Nepali tea is earning its own global identity.
Q10. How much does loose-leaf tea from Nepal cost?
Prices vary based on quality, but high-quality loose-leaf teas from Nepal range from $10 to $40 per 100g when sold internationally. Direct purchases from Nepal can be more affordable, offering excellent value for premium tea. Base line prices are $5/Kilo to $150/Kilo depending upon the type of the tea.
Q11. Where to buy teas from Nepal in Canada?
Nepal Hills Tea offers whole leaf, organic teas directly from farms and serves Canada and US markets. Products are on Amazon as well.
