Tea walk and tasting at Makaibari
Makaibari lies just below Kurseong. Its tea factory, commissioned in 1859, was the first in Darjeeling district. For most of its history the estate was owned by the Banerjee family, who promoted organic and biodynamic farming. Since 2014 it has been owned by the Kolkata-based Luxmi group. The estate covers steep slopes below Kurseong, with patches of forest left standing between sections of tea.
A visit usually includes a walk through the gardens, the factory when it is running, and a tasting of first flush, second flush and other teas. The estate also arranges homestays with worker families in its villages, a chance to eat home meals and see garden life up close. Book ahead and confirm what is running that day.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How far is Makaibari from Kurseong town?
Makaibari is about 3 km below Kurseong on the Pankhabari road, around 10 minutes by car or a 40-minute walk downhill. Local taxis from Kurseong station cost about ₹200–400 one way. The walk back up is steep, so plan a taxi for the return. Cars from Siliguri can stop here on the way up via Pankhabari.
Can I stay in a Makaibari village homestay?
Yes. Makaibari has long run homestays with families in its tea villages. You stay in a simple room in a family home, eat local meals and can join walks through the garden. Prices are about ₹1,500–2,500 per person a night with meals, indicative. Book through the estate in advance, and confirm what is included.
Can I buy tea at Makaibari?
Yes, the estate sells packaged tea on site, with grades from everyday teas to high-priced first and second flush. Ask to taste before buying. Prices range widely, from a few hundred to several thousand rupees per 100 g for top lots. Buying at the estate means the tea is genuine Makaibari, which matters given how much mislabelled Darjeeling tea is sold.
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