Nepali Black Tea from Ilam, Nepal (Loose Leaf, Bold & Smooth)
If you’re looking for Nepali tea, Nepal tea, or Ilam tea that tastes rich without harsh bitterness, this collection is for you. Our loose leaf black tea from Nepal is crafted in small batches for natural sweetness, deep aroma, and a clean finish— the kind of cup that feels “complete” even without sugar.
Choose by taste: mellow + sweet, breakfast-strong, aromatic + layered, deep + grounding, or tippy + bright for a lighter, more fragrant cup.
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Five distinct profiles—so you can pick what you’ll actually enjoy.
Smooth and naturally sweet—an easy “starter” tea that still feels special.
Bold morning brew—excellent plain, and especially good with milk or oat milk.
Aromatic and layered—great when you want nuance without bitterness.
Deep and grounding—full-bodied comfort with a warm finish.
Bright and refined—perfect when you want a lighter, more fragrant black tea.
Start with one smooth everyday tea (Himalayan Golden) and one bold morning tea (Sherpa Breakfast). Then add Premium Spring Tippy when you want a brighter, more aromatic cup.
- Boston-based, woman-owned
- Since 2012
- Single-origin teas (not blends)
- Ships via USPS or UPS (your choice)
- Air-freighted for freshness
How to Brew Loose Leaf Black Tea for Best Flavor
- Water: 195°F for smoothness (go a little hotter if you want extra punch)
- Leaf: 1.5–2 tsp per 8 oz
- Time: 3–5 minutes (taste at 3 minutes; go longer for milk tea)
- Re-steep: many lots re-steep 1–2 times
Organic Practices & Direct Sourcing
We source directly from smallholder farms in Nepal’s Ilam region with a focus on traceability, quality, and long-term relationships. Some lots are USDA Organic certified; others are grown using organic practices but aren’t certified. For the most accurate status, check each tea’s product page.
Shop USDA Organic Teas
Himalayan Golden Organic Black Tea (Award-Winning)
Ruby Organic Oolong Tea
Spring White Buds Organic White Tea
Pokhara Classic Organic Green Tea
Rara Willow Organic White Tea
Annapurna Amber Organic Oolong Tea
Nepali Black Tea FAQs
Steeping time, caffeine, and flavor—quick answers about black tea from Nepal.
Does black tea have caffeine?
Yes—black tea naturally contains caffeine. Most cups land roughly in the 40–70 mg range depending on the tea, how much leaf you use, and how long you steep. If you want a steady, smooth lift, try Himalayan Golden, Sherpa Breakfast, or Khumbu Black.
How long should I steep loose leaf black tea?
For most Nepali black teas, steep 3–5 minutes. Start tasting at 3 minutes for a smoother cup, then go longer if you want a stronger brew for milk tea or lattes. Using too much time (or boiling-hot water) is the #1 reason black tea tastes bitter.
What temperature should I use for black tea?
We recommend starting around 195°F for a smoother, low-astringency cup—especially for whole-leaf Nepali black teas. If you prefer a bolder, more “breakfast-style” brew (or you’re adding milk), you can push closer to 200–205°F.
What makes Nepali black tea (Ilam tea) unique?
Ilam is Nepal’s premier tea-growing region near Darjeeling, with high-elevation gardens that help develop aroma and natural sweetness. The result is a black tea that can taste rich and full-bodied, yet clean and smooth—without the harsh bite of lower-grade teas.
What’s the difference between Darjeeling tea and Nepali black tea?
Both can share a high-altitude, aromatic profile, but Nepali black teas from Ilam are often crafted in smaller lots and are known for smoothness and natural clarity in the cup. Compared with Assam, they’re typically less heavy and less astringent, with a cleaner finish.
How many cups of black tea can I drink daily?
Many people enjoy 1–3 cups per day, depending on caffeine sensitivity. If you’re watching caffeine, brew a shorter steep (around 3 minutes), use slightly less leaf, or re-steep the same leaves for a lighter second cup.
Does black tea have calories?
Plain black tea has essentially zero calories. Calories come from what you add—milk, sugar, honey, or sweetened creamers. Whole-leaf Nepali black tea is naturally flavorful, so many customers enjoy it without sweeteners.
What is the best Nepali black tea for beginners?
If you’re new to loose leaf, start with a smooth, naturally sweet tea like Himalayan Golden. If you want a stronger morning cup, Sherpa Breakfast or Khumbu Black are great picks. For a brighter, more fragrant style, Premium Spring Tippy is a beautiful introduction.