Meghalaya's Tea Culture: Best Teahouses to Visit – Top Spots for Tea Enthusiasts

 Meghalaya, the "Abode of Clouds," is a paradise for tea lovers. The state is known for its lush green landscapes, misty hills, and rich tea culture. Whether you're looking for a cozy corner in an aesthetic cafe in Shillong or a traditional teahouse in the countryside, Meghalaya has something special for every tea enthusiast.

From local Khasi-style teas to premium Assam and Darjeeling blends, Meghalaya's teahouses serve a variety of flavors that soothe the soul. If you’re planning a trip and searching for the best cafes in Shillong, this guide will help you discover the top places to enjoy a perfect cup of tea.

The Tea Culture of Meghalaya

Tea is an essential part of daily life in Meghalaya. Unlike the neighboring state of Assam, which is famous for large-scale tea production, Meghalaya has a smaller but equally rich tea culture. The cool climate and high-altitude conditions make it an ideal place to cultivate aromatic and flavorful tea leaves.

The people of Meghalaya enjoy different types of tea, from strong black tea to mild and fragrant green tea. Many locals also prefer "Lal Cha," a red tea made without milk but with a hint of lemon and sugar.

In recent years, the rise of trendy tea cafés and traditional teahouses has added a new dimension to Meghalaya’s tea scene.

Best Teahouses and Cafés for Tea Lovers

If you are a tea lover exploring Meghalaya, these teahouses and cafés should be on your must-visit list.

1. Dylan’s Café, Shillong

📍 Location: Risa Colony, Shillong

One of the most popular cafés in Shillong, Dylan’s Café is inspired by Bob Dylan. The cozy atmosphere, music, and artistic decor make it a favorite spot for tourists and locals alike. Their special Masala Chai and Green Tea are must-tries. The café also serves delicious snacks that perfectly complement your tea.

Why visit?
✔️ Warm, artistic ambiance
✔️ Great selection of teas and snacks
✔️ Frequent live music performances

2. Café Shillong

📍 Location: Laitumkhrah, Shillong

A charming café with vintage interiors, Café Shillong is well known for its relaxing atmosphere. Their special Ginger Lemon Tea is refreshing, while their Classic English Breakfast Tea is perfect for those who love traditional flavors.

Why visit?
✔️ Comfortable seating and warm interiors
✔️ Variety of tea options, including herbal and black tea
✔️ Live music and great food

3. Shillong Tea House

📍 Location: Police Bazaar, Shillong

This teahouse is all about celebrating Meghalaya’s local tea culture. Shillong Tea House offers a unique tea-tasting experience, featuring locally grown organic tea. They also serve traditional Khasi snacks that pair well with their teas.

Why visit?
✔️ Authentic Meghalaya tea experience
✔️ Organic and locally sourced teas
✔️ Peaceful atmosphere

4. Dew Drop Café

📍 Location: Mawlynnong Village

Mawlynnong, known as the cleanest village in Asia, is home to Dew Drop Café. The café serves a variety of teas, including indigenous herbal teas made from locally grown herbs. The open-air seating offers stunning views of the village.

Why visit?
✔️ Serene village setting
✔️ Locally sourced organic herbal teas
✔️ Eco-friendly ambiance

5. The Living Roof Café

📍 Location: Nongrim Hills, Shillong

For those who love modern café culture, The Living Roof Café is a must-visit. The café serves premium tea varieties like Assam Orthodox, Darjeeling Black Tea, and Green Jasmine Tea. Their rooftop seating offers a breathtaking view of Shillong.

Why visit?
✔️ Stunning rooftop view
✔️ Variety of international tea blends
✔️ Cozy, contemporary interiors

Meghalaya’s Unique Tea Varieties

Meghalaya is home to some special tea varieties that you won’t find anywhere else. Here are a few that you must try:

1. Lal Cha – The Khasi Red Tea

Lal Cha is a traditional Khasi tea made with black tea leaves, sugar, and lemon. It has a reddish hue and is known for its refreshing taste.

2. Jaiur Tea – The Herbal Delight

This tea is infused with local herbs like mint, lemongrass, and ginger. It is often used as a remedy for colds and digestive issues.

3. Meghalaya Green Tea

Locally grown green tea is gaining popularity due to its high antioxidant content and mild, soothing flavor.

The Role of Teahouses in Meghalaya’s Culture

Teahouses in Meghalaya are more than just places to drink tea. They are social hubs where people gather to relax, chat, and enjoy good company. Many local teahouses also host poetry readings, art exhibitions, and live music sessions, making them vibrant cultural centers.

Conclusion

Meghalaya's tea culture is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Whether you prefer a strong black tea, a refreshing green tea, or a traditional Khasi herbal tea, you’ll find plenty of options in the state's charming teahouses. From modern cafés in Shillong to rustic tea spots in the countryside, Meghalaya offers a unique experience for every tea enthusiast.

FAQs

1. What makes Meghalaya’s tea special?

Meghalaya’s tea is grown in high-altitude regions, giving it a unique flavor profile. The combination of fresh mountain air, mineral-rich soil, and organic farming methods enhances its quality.

2. Which is the most aesthetic cafe in Shillong?

Dylan’s Café is considered the most aesthetic cafe in Shillong, with its artistic decor, musical theme, and cozy ambiance.

3. Where can I find the best cafes in Shillong for tea?

Some of the best cafes in Shillong for tea include Dylan’s Café, Café Shillong, Shillong Tea House, and The Living Roof Café.

4. Is tea cultivation common in Meghalaya?

While Meghalaya is not as famous for tea cultivation as Assam, it does have small-scale organic tea farms that produce high-quality tea.

5. What is the best time to visit tea cafés in Shillong?

Shillong’s tea cafés are great to visit year-round, but the best experience is during winter or monsoon when the cool weather makes a hot cup of tea even more enjoyable.