Kumari Gold

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 Kumari Gold black tea, also known as golden tips, is crafted through an intricate process that elevates it beyond standard black teas. This specialty tea starts with the careful plucking of just one or two tender leaves and the terminal bud during the second flush (summer). The freshly hand-harvested leaves are withered for several hours to remove moisture while maintaining their delicate structure for the rolling stage.

The rolling process, which lasts 20-25 minutes, involves multiple stages of low to high pressure. This delicate handling ensures that the leaves remain intact while releasing their essential oils and aromatic compounds. The tea then undergoes oxidation for 8-10 hours, a process where the leaves are frequently turned and repositioned. This crucial step not only develops the rich golden color of the buds but also intensifies the flavors and aromas.

Once the optimal aroma is achieved, the leaves are dried to capture and preserve the complex flavors. The result is a full-bodied, high-quality black tea with captivating caramel and brown sugar aromas, complemented by pronounced baked fruit and honey flavors and an earthy, long-lasting finish.

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 exceptional black tea will captivate both novices and connoisseurs alike. Fans of Yunnan Gold, Golden Monkey, or other golden tips black teas will find this brew particularly delightful. With its minimal astringency and rich toasty sweet notes, it's poised to become a favorite in no time. It's no surprise that this tea is our best-seller!

This tea holds a special place in our hearts. Named "Kumari," after the revered living Goddess of Nepal and also the middle name of our founder’s mother, it honors her pivotal role in our story. In 1984, she planted the first tea bush in what was then our backyard, becoming a true goddess to the farmers and their families. We dedicate this precious tea to her as a tribute to her enduring impact.