Badamtam is a Tea Garden located in the Lebong valley whose altitude varies from 1000 feet to 6000 feet approximately in the district of Darjeeling and is regarded as one of the most prestigious tea estates. The garden is owned and managed by the Goodricke group. The garden was established in 1861 by Christine Barnes and is one of the oldest tea gardens in Darjeeling hills which has kept its legacy for more than 150 years. This is the first tea garden to produce flush tea which is very popular and exported at a high price.
The name Badamtam means carrier of bamboo water which is a Lepcha word. This place is on the outskirts of Darjeeling town and is just 14 kilometres from the heart of the town. The garden produces one of the best quality tea in the world helped by its geographical location. The well-maintained garden is also a visual treat. This is a great place for photography as one can have a clear view of Kanchenjunga along with the beautiful valley of lush green tea plants. Two rivers flow through the garden which are Rungeet and Rung Dung. Due to the proximity of Darjeeling town, it is possible to stay in this garden and visit Darjeeling and enjoy all the sightseeing options of Darjeeling from here.
Getting There
One can reach Badamtam from NJP Railway Station / Bagdogra Airport which is about 83 kilometres and takes more than 3 hours. From Darjeeling, it is about 14 kilometres and takes around 30 minutes.
Weather
This place can be visited throughout the year. Monsoons might be a little troublesome due to rainfall and road blockage. Winters are chilling yet enjoyable and summers have pleasant weather.
See
Badamtam Tea Estate – It is one of the most beautiful and picturesque tea gardens of all time located in the splendid Lebong Valley. One can just walk around and spend time admiring the lush green valleys of tea plants at such varying altitudes. Tourists also get the opportunity of witnessing the manufacturing of one of the finest teas in the world and mingle with the tea workers. The factory of this garden is also well advanced and is surely not to be missed.
Buddha Statue – There is a 14 feet long statue bronze Buddha statue amid the garden which is surely a sight to watch.
Badamtam Monastery – There is an old monastery which is worth visiting.
Manjit Bridge – This suspension footbridge was built in the year 1902 over the river Rungeet and it connects the garden to the state of Sikkim. It was built by the British people which is fine architecture indeed.
Darjeeling Sightseeing Points – Since this place is located 14 kilometres from Darjeeling which takes around 40 minutes, one can do the local sightseeing like Ghoom Monastery, Rock Gardens, Batasia Loop, Tenzing Rock, Japanese Temple, Zoo and Himalayan Mountaineering Institute. Tourists interested in joy rides can also enjoy them.
Do
Hiking, photography and angling are the most popular activities in the area.
