Dharamshala is known for its snow-capped peaks, Tibetan monasteries, and adventure treks — but hidden in plain sight is a lesser-known gem: the lush tea gardens of the Kangra Valley. Just a short drive from the town center, these quiet green estates offer visitors a serene alternative to crowded markets and touristy spots.
A walk through the tea gardens is an invitation to slow down, breathe deeply, and enjoy nature at its calmest. Whether you’re a nature lover, a tea enthusiast, or a curious traveler, the tea estates of Dharamshala are well worth exploring.
🌱 A Taste of History: Kangra Tea
Tea cultivation in Dharamshala dates back to the 1850s when British planters discovered the ideal growing conditions of the Kangra Valley. The region’s mild climate and well-drained soil helped it produce a delicate variety of green and black tea, known as Kangra Tea.
In fact, Kangra tea won a gold medal at the London Expo in 1886! Although the industry suffered setbacks after the 1905 earthquake, it continues to thrive today, with local estates producing premium organic teas enjoyed both in India and abroad.
📍 Where to Visit: Tea Estates Around Dharamshala
There are several beautiful tea-growing areas around Dharamshala, especially near Kunal Pathri, Narghota, and along the road to Palampur. These locations are perfect for nature walks, photography, and peaceful afternoon breaks.
Popular spots include:
- Kunal Pathri Tea Estate – Just 3 km from Dharamshala, ideal for short morning or evening visits
- Narghota Village – A scenic, less-crowded location near Sidhbari
- Mann Tea Estate – Known for its green tea and occasional factory tours
- Wah Tea Estate (Palampur) – A premium experience about 40 km away
If you’re looking to combine tea fields with other peaceful experiences, check out our Village Walks or visit the nearby Norbulingka Institute, known for Tibetan art and tranquil gardens.
☕ What to Do in the Tea Gardens
🌿 1. Enjoy a Nature Walk
Wander through rows of bright green bushes as you soak in views of the Dhauladhar mountain range. The crisp air, birdsong, and earthy aroma of tea leaves make for an unforgettable sensory experience.
🏭 2. Visit a Processing Unit
Some estates, like Wah and Mann, allow visitors to witness tea processing — from plucking to drying to packaging.
🍵 3. Sip & Shop
Enjoy a steaming cup of fresh Kangra green tea right where it’s grown. Many estates sell packaged tea you can take home as a souvenir or gift.
📸 4. Capture the Scenery
The tea gardens are a paradise for photographers, especially during golden hour or misty mornings.
📅 Best Time to Visit
The tea gardens are most vibrant from March to June and September to November, which are also ideal seasons for trekking in Dharamshala. Tea plucking season happens during spring and early autumn, offering visitors a chance to see the process in action.
🚗 How to Get There
The Kunal Pathri estate is just 10–15 minutes by taxi or scooter from the Dharamshala main market. If you’re staying in McLeod Ganj, it’s a short downhill ride. Tea gardens near Palampur, like Wah, are ideal for a day trip.
🏞️ Combine Tea with Trekking
At Dharamsala Treks, we offer custom experiences that blend nature, culture, and flavor. You can combine your tea garden visit with:
- 🌄 A morning trek to Triund
- 🚶♀️ A peaceful walk to a nearby village homestay
- 🧘♀️ A mindful yoga session or forest meditation
🧳 Final Thoughts
The tea gardens of Dharamshala are more than just fields of green — they are spaces of calm, culture, and connection. Visiting them gives you a deeper appreciation for the land and its people, along with a warm cup of tea to remember it by.
Whether you’re here for trekking, relaxation, or simply to experience something new, don’t miss this peaceful corner of the Himalayas.
Plan your trip with us:
📞 Contact Dharamsala Treks to include a Tea Garden walk in your itinerary.
