Ganesha Green - Organic Green Tea

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 Baskota; 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 focussed on the triple bottom line of people and planet before profit.

The production of our Ganesha Green Tea is both simple and artful. It starts with the careful plucking of only the finest two leaves and a bud from each tea bush. These fresh leaves are swiftly transported to the processing factory to minimize exposure to oxygen, which could otherwise trigger unwanted oxidation. The leaves are briefly placed in withering troughs before being transferred to an enzymer machine. The enzymer uses dry heat to draw out moisture, halting the oxidation process that would turn the green leaves brown, creating black tea. This step is key in developing the tea's signature smoky and nutty flavors while giving the leaves a softer appearance.

Next, the softened leaves undergo a brief rolling process, shaping the tea and releasing essential oils. Although green tea typically avoids oxidation, we allow the rolled leaves to rest for 15-20 minutes before the final drying phase. This resting period is crucial, as it enhances the buttery, toasty notes that define the tea. The expertise of our tea makers, with over decades of experience, ensures the tea is dried at just the right moment to capture its peak flavors.

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 is perfect for those seeking a light green tea with minimal caffeine. Fans of high-quality Japanese Gyokuro, matcha, and Chinese Longjing (Dragonwell) will likely appreciate its refined qualities. However, its unique buttery sweetness has the power to convert anyone into a green tea lover.

Ganesha (Ganesh), the elephant-headed god in Hinduism, is worshiped for bringing wisdom, success, and good luck. He is also the first god worshiped in any Hindu ceremony, a blessing given to him by his father, Lord Shiva. His presence symbolizes new beginnings and guidance.

With this in mind, we dedicate our Ganesha Green Tea to Rita Baskota, our very first and youngest supervisor in the tea garden. Rita is not only sweet and humble, like our green tea, but also an inspiration for young women aiming to take on leadership roles in the tea industry.