The Booming Bean: How Chikhaldara is Becoming The Next Coffee Plantation Hub of India

May it be an Americano, a low-fat Cappuccino or even your regular Filter Coffee, this booming and brewing coffee plantation in Maharashtra is going to be your next escape in a hidden green paradise. All the coffee lovers, hail! When we talk about Indian coffee, our minds paint a vivid picture of the lush green panoramic hills of South India, growing coffee in their expansive terrace farming estate. But what if I tell you there's another emerging coffee plantation, which soon will be the hub of coffee? Tucked away in the Amravati Hills is the hill station of Chikhaldara.

Other than its scenic landscape, waterfalls and valleys, it is also a popular coffee plantation. The term ‘Chikhaldara’ literally means mud and water streams in Marathi. This rather non-commercial hill station in Maharashtra is renowned for its green landscape, beautiful waterfalls and the misty hills of the Chikhaldara coffee plantations. If you’re looking for a quick escape from the city, then this destination is the perfect place to recharge your batteries and rejuvenate amidst the lap of nature. 

Coffee Plantations of Chikhaldara

Chikhaldara Coffee is a comparatively newer plantation in India. The idea brewed when the Britishers were looking to expand their coffee plantations. After successfully cultivating coffee in the southern region of India, the colonists were in search of an estate where they could grow coffee that also boasted the right climatic conditions. It was in the 1820s when they decided to cultivate coffee in Chikhaldara, as the climatic conditions were favourable. This destination was pleasant and cool, and the soil was fertile, which are the most crucial factors for growing coffee. The first official coffee plantation here was cultivated in 1840; two British-owned breweries, Deccan Coffee and Land Agency, were the rightful owners of this coffee plantation. Employment preference was given to locals and local farmers, as they were aware of the soil fertility content.

Finally, in the 19th century, this hill station was announced as one of India's largest coffee plantations and exporters. This coffee was exported to regions of Europe, where it rapidly garnered a lot of attention and was a crowd-favourite. The sweet, bitter and fruity umami of the coffee was an intriguing factor for the Europeans. However, as Chikhaldara lies in the interior of Maharashtra, the infrastructure was poor and not well-developed. Thus, the transportation and export costs proved to be a monetary obstacle. Since it was an additional expense, after a while, the coffee grown here was not exported but only consumed within the nation.  

However, by the 20th century, the Indian Government installed various services and developed the infrastructure to boost the coffee plantation here. Eventually, it became India’s largest coffee plantation. The coffee grown here is rich in texture, bittersweet, but the distinct fruity flavour is what adds character to the coffee. Even today, local farmers are employed, and the coffee is handpicked and sun-dried until perfect. 

Coffee Cultivation Process

Despite being renowned globally, the coffee here is still grown in a traditional method, respecting the cultural heritage. The local farmers start the process by harvesting the finest red coffee cherries from the plants. Later on, these coffee cherries are cleaned thoroughly to remove impurities and any residue. The next step involves sundrying these handpicked coffee cherries. Then, these coffee cherries are sundried for around 7 to 10 days until they are sent to the processing unit where the coffee beans are extracted. Lastly, these coffee beans are roasted to perfection!

Kinds of Coffee 

One can find two types of coffee here: Arabica and Robusta. Arabica is known for its subtle, delicate yet fragrant aroma and texture, whereas Robusta, as the name suggests, is for those who prefer their coffee with a strong and bold flavour. Other than these, Chikhaldara also cultivates unique varieties of coffee like Liberica, Excelsa and Catimor.  

Don’t fret if you cannot visit Chikhaldara; these brands bring Chikhaldara to you. If you want to try the iconic Chikhaldara coffee, then check out these brands. Korku Coffee and Turf to Table are a few homegrown Indian brands selling the finest freshly brewed coffee. Known for its distinct flavour, all coffee lovers will enjoy it one sip at a time.  

The next time you’re yearning for an escape from your daily routine and want to explore the extraordinary, bookmark Chikhaldara as your next weekend escape and soak in the intoxicating aroma of coffee and the breathtaking views of the misty hills.