This century-old Darjeeling tea estate promises exclusive forest-nurtured teas

Surrounded by misty valleys, Makaibari’s tea gardens flourish amidst nature’s bounty, untouched and thriving for more than 160 years. Home to indigenous flora and fauna, Makaibari tends to its teas with a reverence for nature’s artistic hand, fostering a biodiverse ecosystem where over a thousand living species thrive.

Makaibari is dedicated to growing and harvesting forest-nurtured teas, with no constraints on yields. With a sprinkle of ancient agri-wisdom from all corners of the world, Makaibari has mastered the art of harmonising with nature. 

Founded in 1859, Makaibari holds the distinction of being not only the oldest tea estate in Darjeeling but also the world’s pioneer in biodynamic tea farming. Drawing inspiration from the movements of celestial bodies, Makaibari follows a cosmic calendar set to the rhythm of stars, moon, and planets for optimal time for tea leaf plucking during the harvest season—from March to October.

The story about the moon and Makaibari is steeped in cosmic rhythms and tea. On clear nights when the full moon casts its ethereal glow and tides rise, Makaibari’s farmers believe that the air’s heightened oxygen and energy levels imbue the tea leaves with a delicate, smoother flavour. Crafted by hand and semi-fermented, Silver Tips Imperial stands as a rare gem, produced in small, exclusive batches. Plucked only four to five times during the season, it takes 200kg of leaves to make 50kg of processed Silver Tips Imperial tea. 

The enchanting ritual of full moon tea leaves plucking at Makaibari celebrates nature’s abundance and the timeless bond between humans and the land. A reminder of the interconnectedness of all things and the beauty that lies in the simplest moments. Beneath a moonlit sky, amidst the misty embrace of the Himalayas, each sip of Darjeeling Full Moon tea becomes a journey—a voyage of discovery that transcends time and space.

All images: Makaibari

This story originally appeared in Harper's Bazaar India, June-July 2024 print edition.

Also read: Not a fan of matcha? Here are some hot girl teas to try instead

Also read: Refreshing homemade coolers for the perfect monsoon treat