Coonoor is a beautiful hill station located in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, India. The town is known for its natural beauty, tea plantations, and scenic views. One of the must-visit places in Coonoor is the Highfield Tea Factory, which offers a unique experience of witnessing the tea-making process.
History
The Highfield Tea Factory was established in 1901 and is one of the oldest tea factories in the Nilgiri Hills. The factory is owned and operated by the Matheson family, who have been involved in the tea industry for over five generations. Today, the factory is open to visitors who can witness the tea-making process and learn about the history of tea production in the region.
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Tour of the Factory
Visitors to the Highfield Tea Factory can take a guided tour of the factory and witness the tea-making process from start to finish. The tour starts with a visit to the tea gardens, where visitors can see the tea plants and learn about the different varieties of tea grown in the region. Next, visitors can witness the tea-plucking process and learn about the different types of tea leaves.
After the tea leaves are plucked, they are taken to the factory for processing. Visitors can witness the different stages of tea production, including withering, rolling, fermentation, and drying. The guide will explain each stage of the process and answer any questions visitors may have.
Tea Tasting
After the tour, visitors can sample the different types of tea produced at the factory. The tea tasting session allows visitors to taste the different varieties of tea and learn about the unique flavors and characteristics of each one. Visitors can also purchase tea and other tea-related products at the factory’s gift shop.
Location and Timings
The Highfield Tea Factory is located in Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, and is open to visitors from 9 am to 4 pm. The factory is closed on Sundays and public holidays. Visitors can book a tour of the factory in advance or upon arrival.
Conclusion
The Highfield Tea Factory is a must-visit destination for tea lovers and anyone interested in the history of tea production in India. The guided tour of the factory offers a unique experience of witnessing the tea-making process from start to finish, and the tea tasting session allows visitors to sample the different types of tea produced at the factory. So, if you are planning a trip to Coonoor, make sure to add the Highfield Tea Factory to your itinerary.
Travel Tips
If you are planning to visit the Highfield Tea Factory in Coonoor, here are some travel tips to keep in mind:
- Wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves walking through the tea gardens and the factory.
- Carry a light jacket or shawl as the weather can get chilly in the hills.
- Book your tour in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
- Carry cash or a credit/debit card as the gift shop may not accept all modes of payment.
FAQs
Q: Is photography allowed during the tour of the factory? A: Yes, photography is allowed during the tour, but it is recommended to seek permission from the guide before taking pictures.
Q: Can visitors purchase tea and other products at the factory’s gift shop? A: Yes, visitors can purchase tea, tea-related products, and souvenirs at the gift shop.
Q: Is the factory wheelchair accessible? A: The tour involves walking through the tea gardens and the factory, so it may not be suitable for wheelchair-bound visitors.
Q: Are there any age restrictions for the tour? A: No, there are no age restrictions for the tour, but visitors should be able to walk and stand for an extended period.
Q: Is the tour suitable for pregnant women? A: The tour involves walking and standing for an extended period, so pregnant women should consult their doctor before taking the tour.