This tea comes from Mai Pokhari Tea Estate in Jasbire, Nepal, a biodiverse region known for its pristine forests and the red pandas that roam freely in the area. Gaba Oolong and Red Panda Oolong remains among producer Man Kumar Mukhiya’s best-selling and most celebrated teas.

Oolong Tea (Camellia Sinensis)

Himalayan Oolong follows the same carefully controlled and time-intensive production process as our Gaba Oolong, with the key difference being a shorter oxidation period to highlight sweeter and citrusy characteristics.

Hand-plucked leaves are withered until they lose approximately 30–35% of their moisture, followed by an initial fermentation of 10–12 hours. The leaves are then placed in a setting machine for a shorter oxidation period compared to the Gaba Oolong.

The following day, the leaves undergo a second fermentation of reduced duration, carefully monitored until the desired aroma and flavor profile are achieved. Once ready, the leaves are transferred to a fixing machine, similar to the enzyming step used in green tea production. Fixing is carried out at temperatures above 300°C for 10–15 minutes to halt oxidation.

After fixing, the leaves are lightly rolled for a few minutes, shaped into pearls, then dried for approximately 20 hours before sorting and packaging.

This tea comes from Mai Pokhari Tea Estate. Man Kumar's journey is steeped in a passion for tea, particularly the elusive oolong. Inspired by the renowned oolongs of Taiwan and China, he embarked on a 14-year quest to replicate these exquisite teas in the unique Nepalese climate. But his dedication went beyond mere replication. For the past decade, his singular focus has been on perfecting the art of oolong. During peak season, he devotes a staggering 16-18 hours a day to meticulously crafting these exceptional teas.

Man Kumar is a true innovator. He is one of the first people in Nepal to ever make oolong tea, starting a whole new tradition. His unwavering commitment and artistry are evident in every cup of oolong tea he has ever crafted.

Himalayan Oolong is for those who enjoy a lighter, brighter oolong with a refreshing lift. If you’re drawn to crisp fruit notes like gooseberries and sweet plums, balanced by gentle citrus and floral aromatics, this tea will suit your palate. With its smoother oxidation and vibrant character, it’s ideal for tea drinkers seeking an elegant, aromatic cup that feels both approachable and refined. Perfect for high-altitude oolong lovers, afternoon sipping, and anyone exploring nuanced oolongs without the intensity of heavier oxidation.