The Tinjure region lies in eastern Nepal, where cool temperatures, fertile soils, and sloping terrain create ideal conditions for orthodox tea cultivation. Tea is grown at elevations exceeding 1,900 meters, where slow leaf growth enhances aroma, structure, and depth of flavor.

This high-altitude terroir, combined with careful orthodox processing, has helped Tinjure teas gain recognition beyond Nepal, including awards at international competitions. Each cup reflects the region’s climate, terrain, and the resilience of tea grown in Nepal’s eastern hills.

Green Tea (Camellia Sinensis)

Hand-plucked leaves consisting of two leaves and a bud, sourced from a mix of Tagba and Ghumti cultivars, are first weighed and then spread out on the floor to rest. The leaves are briefly roasted in an enzyming machine for approximately one minute to deactivate enzymes, followed by rolling for about 30 minutes. After rolling, the leaves are again spread out on the floor to rest.

The tea is then transferred to a revolving dryer and dried for 30 minutes at around 200°C. Once removed, the leaves are allowed to rest again on the floor before being cooled for about five minutes in a mini trough.

After cooling, the leaves are placed in a shaping machine, where they are slowly formed into pearl shapes over approximately 2.5 hours. Final drying is then carried out in a chain dryer at 145°C for about 26 minutes, fully drying the leaves.

The tea is finished with manual sorting and packing.

Nestled at elevations exceeding 1,900 meters, the Tinjure region’s rich soil and high altitude contribute to the tea’s exceptional quality and flavor profile. The Tinjure Tea Farmer Cooperative Society Ltd. was established in 1994 when a group of local farmers came together with a shared vision of reviving idle hillside land through tea cultivation. Their efforts were supported by a subsidized loan from the Agricultural Development Bank. Built on a cooperative farming model, the entire initiative is farmer-led and farmer-owned. The farmers own the land they work on and are the primary beneficiaries of the tea they produce.

What began as a small community effort has grown into one of the region’s most established tea initiatives. Through collective ownership and shared decision-making, the cooperative supports long-term livelihoods while preserving agricultural knowledge across generations. Despite ongoing challenges such as labor shortages and youth migration, the cooperative remains committed to sustaining dignified work in tea farming and keeping hill communities connected to their land.

Anyone who loves a bright, satisfying green tea will enjoy this Himalayan Gunpowder Green. Those who appreciate gently rolled leaves, a subtle nutty flavor, and a clean, umami finish will find this tea both comforting and uplifting.