Shangri-La Oolong

Kanchanjangha Tea Estate and Research Center Pvt. Ltd. (KTERC) is the first certified organic tea garden in Nepal that was established in 1984. Mr. Deepak Prakash Banskota; Father of our founder Nishchal Banskota, took this initiative to rid his community out of poverty. Read more about his story here. Till this day, it remains a model social enterprise that runs on cooperative infrastructure and is truly focused on the triple bottom line of people and planet before profit.

Our Shangri-la Oolong is a distinctive and artistic tea that stands apart from the lighter Taiwanese oolongs, resembling the darker, roasted Chinese varieties. Unlike typical oolongs, it skips the multiple rolling and oxidation stages. Instead, mature leaves are plucked, withered for a few hours, and treated with an enzyme to soften them and halt oxidation partially. The leaves then undergo a 30-40 minute rolling process at varying pressure levels. Afterward, they are oxidized for about 2 hours before being finished in a commercial dryer. This method results in a dark, heavily oxidized oolong with a rich, nutty flavor. We’ve been enthusiastic about this tea since its debut, and it has consistently garnered excellent reviews.

Our tea estate thrives in the eastern region of Nepal, nestled in the foothills of Mt. Kanchanjangha, which is the third-highest mountain in the world. Located precisely near the western borders of Darjeeling, India and north of the Illam, the most famous tea growing region in Nepal, our small village enjoys the best of both worlds. Situated at an altitude of 1300-1800 meters (4,200 - 6000 feet), the area enjoys pristine Himalayan climatic conditions to produce highly unique and aromatic teas.

This tea will captivate both beginners and seasoned connoisseurs alike. The debate over whether it should be classified as a black tea or an oolong will spark intriguing conversations. Tea enthusiasts who appreciate Chinese or roasted Taiwanese oolongs and Darjeeling teas will be pleasantly surprised by its unique profile. For a different experience, we also recommend trying it cold-brewed. You might discover a whole new side to this remarkable tea!