About Mattupetty Tea factory Visit
Mattupetty tea Factory
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 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
- 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.
- Tea Tasting : Experience a variety of locally produced teas and learn about the unique flavors and aromas.
- Museum Visit : Explore the small museum showcasing vintage tea processing equipment and historical photographs.
- Shopping : Purchase freshly packed tea and other tea-related products as souvenirs.
- 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.
Distance From Munnar to Mattupetty tea Factory: 24 min (10.5 km) via Munnar - Top Station Hwy.
What is the entry fee in Mattupetty tea Factory?
Mattupetty tea Factory entry fee for visitors is INR200/-per person.
Facilities available in mattupetty Tea factory :
Food available for purchase | Wash room available (free) | Camera not allowed | need Wearing of shoes covers | Free parking available | Entry pass needed |