Palampur — Tea Capital of North India
Palampur is the Tea Capital of North India, just 16 km from Baijnath on NH-20. Set at 1220m, it is surrounded by lush Kangra tea estates and the spectacular Dhauladhar mountain backdrop. Tea has been cultivated here since the 1850s.
Kangra Tea — India’s GI-Tagged Specialty Tea
Kangra tea has a Geographic Indication tag and is known for its delicate, floral, slightly sweet flavour — a character born of high altitude and clean mountain air. Both green and black varieties are produced. Buy directly from estates at a fraction of city prices.
Top Attractions in Palampur
- Kangra Tea Gardens: Walk through rows, watch plucking in action, taste fresh Kangra tea
- Neugal Khad: Dramatic gorge where a mountain stream cuts through rocks
- Tashi Jong Monastery: Tibetan Buddhist monastery with golden Buddha and Tibetan market
- Saurabh Van Vihar: Forested park ideal for morning walks
Palampur as a Base
Palampur has significantly more hotels, restaurants, and bus connections than Baijnath. Many visitors prefer to stay in Palampur and make day trips to Baijnath (25 min), Bir Billing (1 hr), and Dharamsala.
Getting There from Baijnath
Local bus or shared taxi on NH-20: 25 to 30 minutes, Rs 200 to Rs 300 by taxi.