Badamtam, located in the Darjeeling District of West Bengal, is a serene destination known for its tea gardens.
The area offers a stunning view of Kanchenjunga and a peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for tea tourism in the Himalayas.
History of Badamtam Tea Estate
The estate dates back to 1858 when Christine Barnes first planted tea here. Before it was commercialized by the Lebong Company, the land was already growing tea.
The name “Badamtam” may come from a Lepcha word meaning “bamboo water carrier.”
Location and Accessibility
Badamtam Tea Estate is about 17 km from Darjeeling town, situated at 6,000 feet in Lebong Valley.
The location provides a quiet and refreshing environment, perfect for relaxation.
Things to See and Do
- Experience Nature’s Serenity: Enjoy the calm surroundings away from city noise.
- Visit Darjeeling’s Attractions: Explore HMI, Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Ropeway, Rock Garden, and Ghoom Monastery.
- Nearby Sightseeing: See Badamtam Monastery, Manjitar-Bridge, and Chulidara’s Lord Buddha Statue.
- Tea Plantation Activities: Watch tea plucking and processing with Kanchenjunga in the background.
- Meet Local Villagers: Learn about their culture and lifestyle.
- Birdwatching: Walk through forested areas and observe various bird species.
Accommodation Options
Badamtam has homestays managed by local villagers. These provide neat and clean rooms, attached western bathrooms, 24-hour electricity, and geysers.
Guests can enjoy homemade meals made from organic ingredients. The warm hospitality of the hosts ensures a comfortable stay.
How to Reach Badamtam Tea Estate
- By Air: Fly to Bagdogra Airport (90 km away). From there, take a cab via Ghoom and Darjeeling (4-hour drive).
- By Train: Reach New Jalpaiguri Junction (86 km away), then hire a cab to the estate (4-hour journey).
- By Road: Hire a car from Siliguri, Bagdogra, NJP, or nearby cities. Travel time is around 4 hours.
Best Time to Visit
Badamtam is accessible throughout the year except during the monsoon season. The weather remains pleasant, and Kanchenjunga stays visible most of the time, making it an ideal place for a peaceful getaway.
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