Exploring Jasbire Ilam: A Journey Through Nepal's Tea Gardens April 29, 2024 09:15
In the eastern hills of Nepal, the tea gardens of Jasbire Ilam are more than just a beautiful sight; they represent a deep cultural heritage and a dedication to the art of tea making. This blog shares our heartfelt experiences and insights from our time among these stunning gardens.
Jasbire and Its Special Tea Culture
Jasbire is a place located high up in the mountains (1,839 meters) near Limbunidhara and Chapgairi in the Ilam district of Province 1, Nepal. Jasbire is not just a place; it’s a lively community where tea plays a central role. Famous for some of the world's best teas, this area has a long history connected with Nepal’s broader cultural traditions. The tea here is grown organically, and the unique tastes are shaped by the local weather and soil.
The Rich History of Tea in Jasbire Ilam
The practice of growing tea in Jasbire Ilam goes back a long way, starting with influences from the nearby Darjeeling but eventually developing its own unique methods. These traditions have helped make Jasbire’s tea famous around the world for its quality.
What Makes Jasbire Tea Special?
Plucking teas
Jasbire tea is loved for its rich smells and complex tastes, which include notes of orchids, musk, and a hint of spice. This unique flavor comes from the perfect mix of high altitude, good weather, and fertile soil, along with the hard work and knowledge of local farmers.
Our Trip to the Jasbire Ilam Tea Gardens
Jasbire Tea Garden
Planning Our Visit
Our trip was fueled by a wish to connect directly with the place and people behind our favorite teas. We prepared by finding out the best times to visit and trying to understand the local culture, to fully soak in the tea garden experience.
Arriving in Jasbire Ilam
When we first arrived, we were greeted by the endless stretches of green tea plants and the fresh, sweet smell of tea in the air. The calm hills and the lively chatter of the local tea workers were welcoming and invigorating.
A Walk Through the Gardens
Walking through the tea gardens was a treat for all senses—the endless green, the sound of leaves rustling, and the soft earth under our feet. This calm yet lively atmosphere was one of the highlights of our visit.
Jasbire Tea Estate: A Legacy of Passion and Perseverance
During our visit to the Jasbire Ilam tea gardens, we had the privilege of knowing the histroy of Sharad Subba, the founder of the Jasbire Tea Estate. Sharad's journey is a testament to passion, dedication, and perseverance, not just for his own dreams, but for his community.
Building a Legacy
Sharad Subba didn't always manage a tea estate. His journey began as a producer of standard black teas at Mai Tea Factory for nine years. However, Sharad had a bigger vision—to create an estate that specialized in unique, high-quality teas. This dream began to take shape when he met Sonam Paljor Lama, his mentor and advisor at the Sandakphu Tea Factory.
Sonam introduced Sharad to the emerging wave of orthodox tea production among small farmers in Nepal, fueled by the UNNATI agro-project based in Denmark. Inspired, Sharad founded the Jasbire Tea Estate, dedicating it to specialty tea production.
Meeting Sujan Limbu
Meeting with Mr. Sujan Limbu
During our visit, we had the privilege of meeting Sujan Limbu, the manager of the Jasbire Tea Estate. Sujan guided us through the estate, showing us the tea gardens and providing insights into the production process. His dedication to the estate and its mission was evident throughout our tour.
The Thrilling Beginning of Jasbire Tea Estate
Processing the tea
Sharad started with old equipment and a small team, aiming to produce some of Nepal's finest tea while supporting local farmers and workers. Despite initial challenges, including a major storm that damaged much of their equipment, the estate thrived through sheer determination and hard work. The entire team came together to repair and rebuild, modifying old machines to keep production going.
The Passionate Team Behind the Tea
What makes the Jasbire Tea Estate stand out is not just the quality of its tea but the people who produce it. Sharad has built a passionate team that cares deeply about every step of the process, from picking the leaves to processing and packaging. Their dedication is contagious, reflected in the bright smiles and meticulous care they put into every task.
The Impact of Jasbire Tea Estate on the Community
Team with Jasbire Tea Estate
Today, Jasbire Tea Estate is a cornerstone of the Jasbire community. It not only provides jobs but also invests in local initiatives and offers training programs for young people interested in tea production. Sharad's success has brought prosperity to the entire region, enriching both the local economy and the professional development of its workers.
Brewing Hope and Prosperity
Every cup of tea from the Jasbire Tea Estate carries a story of hope and hard work. For Sharad and his team, it's about creating a legacy of prosperity and positivity that enriches everyone involved.
Expanding Horizons
Jasbire Tea Estate's teas are now in demand across the globe, including the USA, France, Denmark, and Australia. Certified organic by CERES under USDA and JAS guidelines, the estate continues to focus on producing high-quality, specialty teas.
Our meeting with Sharad Subba and his team was a profound insight into what makes the Jasbire Tea Estate a beacon of passion and perseverance in the heart of Nepal's tea country. Their story is a reminder that behind every cup of tea are the dreams and hard work of real people.
Tasting Jasbire Tea: Our Experience
Tasting Notes
Each sip of Jasbire tea brings a burst of complex flavors—sweet, floral, and a bit spicy. During our tastings, we enjoyed discovering new tastes with each cup, each one telling its own story of where it came from.
How to Enjoy Tea
To really enjoy the tea, it’s important to notice its color, smell, and texture, not just the taste. Enjoying tea here involves all your senses, letting you appreciate the depth and richness of each type.
Sustainable Tea Farming in Jasbire
Environmental Efforts in Tea Production
In Jasbire Ilam, sustainability is key. Farmers use methods that keep the environment safe, making sure the soil and water stay clean. These practices not only make the tea taste better but also make it healthier.
How Sustainability Improves Tea Quality
Focusing on eco-friendly practices helps keep the natural environment healthy, which in turn keeps the tea’s natural flavors and health benefits strong. This commitment to the environment is a big part of what makes Jasbire tea so special.
Conclusion
The tea gardens of Jasbire Ilam offer more than scenic beauty; they are a testament to Nepal's deep-rooted cultural heritage and commitment to the art of tea making. Our journey through these gardens and our meeting with Sujan Limbu and his dedicated team have shown us the passion, perseverance, and community spirit that go into each cup of Jasbire tea. The unique flavors and aromas, a result of both natural factors and sustainable farming practices, make this tea stand out. More importantly, behind every sip lies a story of dreams, hard work, and resilience, making the experience of enjoying Jasbire tea truly remarkable.