The best time to visit Happy Valley Tea Estate in Darjeeling is between March to May, and then again from October to November. These periods mark the spring and autumn seasons when the weather in Darjeeling is ideal – the temperatures are pleasurably cool and the skies are usually clear. Spring, especially, is a fantastic time as the tea bushes are lush after the dormant winter period, and the first flush – the first picking of the season – takes place. The tea from the first flush is often considered the most delicate and aromatic, making it a great time for tea enthusiasts to visit.
Moreover, visiting during these months ensures that you avoid the heavy monsoon rains which are common from June to September, potentially disrupting travel plans and outdoor activities. Autumn, on the other hand, offers a respite from rain and delivers clear, expansive views of the magnificent Himalayan range – a perfect backdrop for your tea estate explorations. It's also a time for the second flush, which yields a darker and more full-bodied tea, widely celebrated among connoisseurs for its unique flavor profile. However, it's advisable to check with the estate beforehand as the plucking and manufacturing schedule may vary each year.
