In May of this year, the New York Times delved into a captivating story about the global loose-leaf tea revolution and its pioneering leader, Nishchal Banskota, founder of Nepal Tea. This remarkable journey brings the essence of Nepal’s tea hills, particularly Kanchanjangha, straight to the teacups of the Western world.
For far too long, Nepali tea leaves remained overshadowed by the fame of Darjeeling tea, often referred to as the Champagne of teas. Due to the striking similarities in climate and altitude, sellers recognized the comparable quality of Nepali tea and began marketing it under the label of Darjeeling tea. Though this lack of credit seemed unfair initially, it provided a lifeline for Nepali tea growers who lacked international connections. The tea from Nepal reached a wider audience and ensured better prices, supporting smaller tea farms and offering them a steady source of income.
However, a remarkable shift is now taking place, as Nepal embraces the loose-leaf revolution to carve out its distinct identity. While Darjeeling tea retains its prestigious reputation, Nepali tea is venturing into new territories and securing a prominent position in the international tea market. Nepal Tea has emerged as one of the leaders in this transformative movement, recently earning the Bronze medal at the World Tea Championship.
Nepal Tea’s success can be attributed to its unique flavor, derived from young bushes that yield a delightful floral taste, far superior to the average cup of supermarket teas. Notably, Kanchanjangha Tea Estate operates on a co-op model, with farmers deeply invested in nurturing their tea bushes. The love, care, and effort devoted to growing these tea leaves are distinctly evident in every sip.
As a social enterprise in its early years, Nepal Tea acknowledges the challenges it has faced. Experimenting with harvesting techniques to maintain consistency in taste and quality year after year remains an ongoing pursuit. Yet, there are numerous accomplishments to celebrate, such as being the first certified organic tea garden in Nepal. Their innovative model has earned recognition as a role model for businesses worldwide.
Beyond business and profits, Nepal Tea takes pride in its commitment to the community. By ensuring the well-being of farmers and their families, the company extends the essence of the tea to the hearts of those who cultivate it. The stories of these farmers are interwoven with the tea leaves they harvest, underscoring the symbiotic relationship between the tea industry and its nurturing workforce.
For Nepal Tea, it’s not just about promoting a product; it’s about sharing a heritage, a history, and a culture. The company’s ideology revolves around giving Nepali tea the recognition it deserves, with the understanding that its true credit lies with the farmers and the community at Kanchanjangha Tea Estate.
As the loose-leaf revolution gains momentum, Nepal Tea strives to unite all Nepali tea growers under a shared identity, creating a lasting impact on the international stage.
Nepal’s hospitality is renowned, and the phrase “ek cup chiya kham” signifies far more than sharing a cup of tea—it symbolizes bonding, connection, and the warmth of friendship. With initiatives like Visit Nepal 2020, Nepal Tea invites tea lovers from around the world to experience not just their exceptional tea but also the rich tapestry of Nepali culture, landscapes, and the Kanchanjangha tea farms.
So, join Nepal Tea on their journey to embrace the loose-leaf revolution, and when you visit, they’ll warmly ask you, “ek cup chiya kham?”
Read the New York Times article we were featured in!
Nepal Tea would love to have you over for a cup of tea! Join us on our next trip to Kanchanjangha to learn about tea harvesting!
Is Nepal on your vacation list? Head on over to Tea Tourism – by Nepal Tea plan your next trip!