The Legacy of Makaibari: A Journey Through India's Oldest Organic Tea Estate

Nestled in the misty hills of Kurseong in Darjeeling, India, the Makaibari Tea Estate is more than just a tea garden it’s a living legacy. Established in 1859, Makaibari holds the distinction of being the oldest tea estate in Darjeeling and one of the most iconic in the world. Its rich history, pioneering spirit, and commitment to sustainability have made it a beacon in the global tea industry.

The Beginnings of Makaibari

Founded by Captain G.C. Lloyd, a British officer credited with developing Darjeeling’s tea industry, Makaibari began as part of a larger movement during the British colonial era to cultivate tea in India as an alternative to Chinese imports. Over time, the estate changed hands and eventually came under the stewardship of the Banerjee family, who would shape its future in extraordinary ways.

In 1970, Rajah Banerjee, the fourth-generation owner, took over operations. Under his leadership, Makaibari transformed from a traditional estate into a global symbol of sustainable and biodynamic farming.

A Pioneer in Organic and Biodynamic Tea

Makaibari made headlines in 1988 by becoming the first tea estate in the world to be certified as fully organic. But it didn’t stop there. It also became the first biodynamic tea garden, integrating ecological and spiritual farming methods to create a balanced, self-sustaining ecosystem.

The estate’s philosophy was built on the idea that the soil, plants, animals, and workers all form a single, interconnected whole. This deep respect for the environment and community set Makaibari apart and inspired many others to follow suit.

Tea with a Global Reputation

Makaibari’s teas are known for their distinctive muscatel flavor, a result of the estate’s high elevation, unique climate, and careful plucking techniques. The estate produces a variety of prized teas, including Darjeeling first flush, second flush, and darjeeling premium white, some of which have fetched record-breaking prices at international auctions.

Empowering the Community

One of the most remarkable aspects of Makaibari is its commitment to social responsibility. The estate has long focused on uplifting its workers, many of whom live on the premises in self-sufficient villages. Profits have been reinvested into community development, including education, healthcare, women's empowerment, and housing.

Makaibari also pioneered a model of participatory management, encouraging workers to take ownership of the estate’s success and fostering a spirit of mutual respect and collaboration.

A Changing of the Guard

In 2014, Makaibari was acquired by the Luxmi Group, another prominent name in the Indian tea industry. While ownership changed, the estate's core values of sustainability, community, and quality have remained intact. Rajah Banerjee continues to be an influential voice in sustainable agriculture and tea innovation.

A Heritage Worth Sipping

Today, Makaibari is not just a place where tea is grown, it’s a symbol of heritage, innovation, and conscious living. Each cup of Makaibari tea carries the story of a landscape, a legacy, and a commitment to doing things differently. For tea lovers around the world, Makaibari offers more than just flavor,, it offers a taste of history.

Enjoy your time with tea!