Mattupetty Tea Factory Visit
The Mattupetty Tea Factory, located in the picturesque hill station of Munnar, Kerala, is a popular tourist destination. A visit to this factory offers a fascinating insight into the tea-making process, from plucking the leaves to packaging the final product. Guests can observe the various stages of production, including withering, rolling, fermenting, drying, and sorting. The factory also has a small museum displaying vintage tea processing equipment and offers opportunities for tea tasting. The lush tea plantations surrounding the factory provide a serene backdrop, making the visit both educational and visually pleasing.
History of Mattupetty Tea Factory
The Mattupetty Tea Factory, located in the picturesque hill station of Munnar in Kerala, India, has a rich history tied to the region colonial past and tea cultivation. Munnar tea plantations date back to the late 19th century when British planters established the first estates.
The tea factory itself is part of this legacy, contributing to the region reputation for high-quality tea production. It was established to process the tea leaves harvested from the surrounding estates, playing a crucial role in the local economy and the broader tea industry in Kerala.
Over the years, the Mattupetty Tea Factory has become a significant tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the tea-making process. Tours of the factory typically include demonstrations of the various stages of tea production, from withering and rolling to fermenting, drying, and sorting. Visitors also have the opportunity to taste and purchase the fresh tea produced on-site.
The factory and the plantations around it are known not only for their historical importance but also for their contribution to sustainable agricultural practices and community development in the region.
Activities at Mattupetty Tea Factory
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Guided Tours : Visitors can take guided tours of the factory, which explain the tea-making process and the history of tea production in the region.
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Tea Tasting : Experience a variety of locally produced teas and learn about the unique flavors and aromas.
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Museum Visit : Explore the small museum showcasing vintage tea processing equipment and historical photographs.
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Shopping : Purchase freshly packed tea and other tea-related products as souvenirs.
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Plantation Walks : Enjoy walks through the surrounding tea plantations, taking in the scenic beauty and learning about tea cultivation.
Tea Processing Details at Mattupetty Tea Factory
Plucking : Tea leaves are handpicked from the tea bushes, typically selecting the top two leaves and a bud.
Withering : The plucked leaves are spread out to wither for several hours, reducing their moisture content and making them pliable for rolling.
Rolling : The withered leaves are rolled to break their cell walls, releasing enzymes that start the oxidation process. This rolling can be done using machines or by hand.
Fermentation/Oxidation : The rolled leaves are left to ferment in a controlled environment. This process, which can last from 30 minutes to several hours, determines the tea flavor and color. For black tea, full oxidation occurs, while green and white teas undergo minimal oxidation.
Drying : The oxidized leaves are dried using hot air to halt the oxidation process and to reduce moisture, ensuring the tea is suitable for storage and consumption.
Sorting and Grading : The dried tea leaves are sorted and graded based on size and quality. Larger leaves are typically of higher quality, while smaller particles are used for tea bags.
Packaging : The final product is packed in various forms, such as loose leaf or tea bags, ready for distribution and sale.
Visiting the Mattupetty Tea Factory provides a comprehensive look at the traditional and modern methods of tea production, enriching the experience with the scenic beauty of Munnar tea gardens.
Speciality of Mattupetty Tea Factory
The Mattupetty Tea Factory is renowned for its high-quality tea production, which combines traditional methods with modern technology. The factory's location in Munnar, a region celebrated for its ideal tea-growing climate, contributes significantly to the superior quality of the tea produced. The specialty of the Mattupetty Tea Factory lies in its commitment to preserving the authentic flavors of tea, using carefully curated processes that enhance the natural aromas and taste profiles.
Why Mattupetty Tea Factory is Famous
1. High-Quality Tea Production : The factory is known for producing some of the finest teas in India, Munnar optimal growing conditions—high altitude, adequate rainfall, and rich soil.
2. Educational Tours : It offers insightful tours that provide visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the tea-making process, from leaf plucking to packaging.
3. Historical Significance : The factory and the surrounding plantations have a rich history tied to the British colonial period, adding a historical and cultural layer to the visit.
4. Scenic Beauty : Located in the picturesque hills of Munnar, the factory is surrounded by lush tea gardens, making it a visually stunning destination.
5. Tea Tasting Experience : The factory allows visitors to taste various types of tea, helping them appreciate the nuances in flavor and aroma that result from different processing techniques.
6. Cultural Insight : The factory offers a glimpse into the life and work of the local tea plantation workers, providing cultural insights into the region's tea industry.
These factors combined make the Mattupetty Tea Factory a famous and sought-after destination for tea enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Mattupetty Tea Factory Entry Fee and Timings
Entry Fee : Adults : 200 INR
Timings Opening Hours : 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Best Time to Visit Mattupetty Tea Factory
Best Season September to March : This period is considered the best time to visit Munnar and the Mattupetty Tea Factory. The weather is pleasant, with cool temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the tea plantations and enjoying the scenic beauty.
Avoid Monsoon Season
June to August : The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, which can hinder travel plans and limit outdoor activities.
How to Reach Mattupetty Tea Factory
By Air Nearest Airport : Cochin International Airport (approximately 110 km from Munnar). From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Munnar.
By Train Nearest Railway Station : Aluva (approximately 110 km from Munnar) or Ernakulam Junction (approximately 130 km from Munnar). From the railway station, taxis and buses are available to reach Munnar.
By Road From Munnar : The Mattupetty Tea Factory is about 13 km from Munnar town. You can hire a taxi, take a local bus, or drive to the factory. The route is well-signposted and offers scenic views along the way.
Traveling to the Mattupetty Tea Factory is convenient, with various transport options available to ensure a comfortable journey.
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