Which city is called the Tea Capital of India?

For millions of tea lovers, a perfect cup of tea in the morning is the ideal way to begin the day. India’s deep-rooted tea culture and wide variety of blends have made the beverage an essential part of daily life across the country.

From strong masala chai to rich black tea, India is home to some of the world’s finest and most diverse tea varieties.

But do you know which place in India is considered the ultimate tea capital of the country?

Just like Solapur is known for watermelons and Nagpur is known for oranges, this entire state is famous for its tea. You might have guessed it by now. It is Assam.

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Assam has long been called the tea capital of India, a title earned through its massive production, world-famous flavour, and centuries-old tea culture. From the misty gardens of the Brahmaputra Valley to bustling global auctions, Assam tea has become one of India’s strongest international brands.

Tea from Assam is recognised for its bold taste, deep amber colour, and rich aroma. It is often described as the perfect morning tea because of its brisk and malty character.

Why Assam produces some of the world’s best tea

The geography and climate of Assam make it ideal for tea cultivation.

The tea gardens spread across the fertile plains surrounding the Brahmaputra river, where rich loamy soil, heavy rainfall, and humid weather help tea bushes grow in abundance.

Unlike tea grown in cooler hill regions, Assam tea develops a stronger and fuller flavour because of the state’s tropical climate.

The second flush Assam orthodox teas, harvested during the peak growing season, are especially valued for their bright liquor and rich taste. These teas are considered among the finest in the world.

Assam tea varieties that dominate global demand

Tea cultivation in Assam dates back to the 19^th century when the Britishers wanted to break the monopoly of Chinese tea production.

Assam contributes more than half of India’s total tea production and has over 800 tea estates spread across the state. Many of these plantations were established during the British colonial era and continue to remain major centres of tea cultivation and export.

Assam produces both Orthodox and CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) teas. CTC tea is widely used in Indian households because it creates a strong cup that blends well with milk. Orthodox Assam tea, on the other hand, is popular in international markets for its smooth flavour and premium quality.

Assam Orthodox Tea is also a registered Geographical Indication (GI) product, giving it legal recognition and protecting its unique identity in global markets.

The state’s tea industry includes large estates as well as thousands of small tea growers who contribute significantly to production.

Tea research and innovation in Assam

Research has played a major role in maintaining Assam’s reputation in the tea industry. The Tocklai Tea Research Institute in Jorhat is the world’s oldest and largest tea research station.

The institute works on improving tea quality, increasing productivity, and developing better cultivation methods.

It also carries out research on clonal propagation and pest management to ensure Assam tea retains its distinctive strength and flavour.

Assam tea production and export figures

According to provisional data released by the Tea Board of India, the country exported 280.40 million kg of tea in 2025, earning Rs 8,488.43 crore. This marked an 18.4% rise compared to 2024. Assam played a major role in this growth, recording an increase of 40 million kg in tea exports and a rise of 50 million kg in total production. Of the additional production, around 10 million kg was consumed within the domestic market.

Major export destinations for Assam tea include the United States of America, United Kingdom, Russia, Iran, Egypt, Germany, United Arab Emirates among others.

Assam tea remains the pride of India

Tea is more than just a beverage in Assam. It is deeply linked to the state’s economy, culture, and identity. Millions of workers, growers, traders, and exporters depend on the industry for their livelihood.

With its rich heritage, strong export market, and globally admired flavour, Assam continues to hold its place as the undisputed tea capital of India.