On International Tea Day 2023, explore these exquisite tea destinations across the globe

International Tea Day is observed annually on May 21 to recognise the long history and cultural and economic significance of tea around the world, as well as the significant role it plays in rural development, poverty reduction and food security in developing countries. As such, let's take a look at some of the best tea destinations to travel across the world.

Darjeeling is tucked away in the foothills of the Himalayas and is home to one of the best tea plantations in the world. Darjeeling black tea is the traditional tea of the town. One can savour a cup of black tea while enjoying the scenic landscape and picturesque views the place has to offer. (Source: Pixabay)

The state of Assam is the world's largest tea-growing regions by production. One can explore the lush green plantations across the region and immerse in the tea culture by embarking on a tea tasting journey. Visitors can learn about the art of tea-making, from plucking the leaves to fermentation. (Source: Pixabay)

Taiwan is the home of bubble tea or pearl milk tea, a drink invented on the island in the 1980s. Bubble tea is a symbol of the Taiwanese culture and identity. The two indigenous varieties of tea grown in the region include the Mountain Tea and Red Sprout Tea. (Source: Pixabay)

Yerba mate is a cultural staple in Argentina and the national beverage. Mate is on the menu of several cafes and restaurants in Argentina, but ‘Ruta de la Yerba Mate’, a tourist path through the provinces of Corrientes and Misiones where one can explore the production process, taste different varieties and flavours, visit museums and plantations, is a must visit. (Source: Pixabay)

Ooty is a hill station in the state of Tamil Nadu. Bounded by three national parks and its own toy train, it is great destination for tea connoisseurs and casual tourists alike. The tea centres of Ooty and Coonoor are full of tea rooms where you can rejuvenate after a tiring day. A trip to Ooty is incomplete without visiting the Dodabetta Tea Museum & Factory, where you can see the process of making tea from start to finish. (Source: Pixabay)

Granada is not only one of the most beautiful cities in Spain, but is also rich in history. Tea culture has thrived in the region since the 15th century, leading to a number of tea houses or teterias in the region. Paired with exploring Granada's monuments like the Alhambra, one can sip on tea at the historic qarters of El Albaicin. (Source: Pixabay)

Home to the only tea plantation in Europe, Portugal's Azores Archipelago is one of the best places to enjoy European tea culture. Called chá, this organic beverage has been a staple in the region for the last two centuries. You can visit the tea factories or head to Chalet da Tia Mercês in Furnas where the volcanic valley's waters turn Azorean green tea to a vibrant shade of purple. (Source: Pixabay)

Moroccan mint tea or Maghrebi mint tea was introduced in Morocco in the 18th century. Travellers can experience the tea culture when wandering the souq, brunching at the riad or visiting any cafe in Marrakesh's medina. (Source: Pixabay)

Moc Chao district is a lesser-known part of Northern Vietnam, but it's everything a tea lover could hope for. Initially tea seeds were planted in the 1880s by French colonists, giving Vietnam its own locally grown tea. Green tea is by far the most popular variety of tea sipped in the region. (Source: Pixabay)