You cannot look anywhere in Munnar without seeing miles of neatly manicured tea bushes. But how did

this dense forest turn into the tea capital of South India? Here is a brief history of the Munnar tea

gardens.

A Colonial Legacy

The transformation began in the late 19th century when British planters discovered that the high altitude

and cool climate were perfect for growing tea. They cleared the jungles, laid down roads, and

established vast estates. Today, companies like Tata Tea (KDHP) manage the majority of these lands.

How to Experience the Estates

You can do more than just take photos. Visit the Kolukkumalai estate to see an orthodox tea factory built

in the 1930s that still uses traditional methods. You can also take guided plantation walks to watch the

incredibly skilled tea pluckers at work.

Frequently Asked Question

Can I walk into any tea garden for photos?

Most tea gardens are private property. While standing on the roadside edge is fine, do not walk

deep into the bushes without permission.