Tea Tasting Session at India’s oldest tea boutique Sancha Tea/Aap Ki Pasand

A Flavorful Journey at India’s Oldest Tea Boutique

Imagine stepping into Sancha Tea, India’s most venerable tea shop, founded in 1981 by Master Tea Taster Sanjay Kapur. For just $7 per person, you get roughly an hour of tasting teas from seven distinct Indian regions—Darjeeling, Assam, Nilgiri, Sikkim, Kangra, and beyond. The setting is charming and authentic, located at 15 Netaji Subhash Marg in New Delhi, right opposite Golcha Cinema, making it easy to access via public transport.

What immediately stands out about this experience is the opportunity to taste rare, small-batch teas that aren’t available in mainstream stores, especially those white teas and unique masala blends infused with saffron, cardamom, ginger, and other regional spices. We especially love the fact that the store is run by Sanjay Kapur himself, whose expertise in blending and tasting adds a genuine touch of authority and passion. Second, the personalized tasting experience—where you can ask for any tea to be brewed and learn about each region—makes this session both fun and educational.

One potential drawback is that the group size is limited to 20 travelers, which is generally good for intimacy but means booking well in advance (about 17 days on average) is necessary to secure your spot. Also, since it’s a tasting-focused activity, those looking for a more elaborate tour or sightseeing might want to supplement this with other activities. Still, if you’re a tea enthusiast or curious about Indian teas’ regional differences, this experience hits the mark.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate quality, authenticity, and learning. It’s ideal for those who enjoy tasting and discovering new flavors rather than just observing or sightseeing, especially if you love tea or want to bring home unique Indian blends as souvenirs.

Key Points

• Authentic Indian Tea Experience: Taste teas from 7 different regions, including rare white and small-batch varieties.
• Expert Guidance: Learn from Sanjay Kapur, a master tea taster, about the unique qualities of each tea.
• Affordable Quality: For $7, you gain access to a curated selection of over 100 Indian teas and blends.
• Educational & Fun: Perfect for those wanting to understand terroir, regional differences, and health benefits of tea.
• Convenient Location: Situated in the heart of Delhi with easy access via public transport.
• Limited but Intimate Group Size: Up to 20 travelers, so reservation well in advance is recommended.

The Experience in Detail

Walking into the Aap Ki Pasand Tea Gallery, you’re immediately enveloped by the aroma of freshly brewed teas and the sight of beautifully packaged blends. As India’s oldest artisanal tea store, it carries a sense of tradition and craft that’s palpable. The store’s longstanding reputation—highlighted by mentions in Lonely Planet, BBC Travel, and Time Magazine—speaks to its credibility and quality.

Your host, Mr. Kapur, is a friendly expert who takes pride in sharing his knowledge about India’s seven distinctive tea-growing regions. You’ll find that each region’s teas have unique characteristics—Darjeeling’s floral notes, Assam’s boldness, Nilgiri’s smoothness, and the more delicate varieties from Sikkim and Kangra. The store offers a curated selection of teas, including black, white, green, and herbal Ayurvedic options, making the tasting diverse and educational.

The tasting session involves sampling around 13 different teas—a generous number that allows you to compare and appreciate the subtle differences in flavor, aroma, and appearance. One reviewer, Amanda, shared that she “was able to sit and taste 13 different teas and learn more about the different types of tea, regions the leaves come from, and various benefits of tea.” That level of detail makes this more than a simple tasting; it’s a mini-lecture on Indian terroirs and brewing techniques.

As part of the experience, you can ask for any tea to be brewed on the house, which adds a personalized touch. You’ll also have the chance to purchase over 100 blends of Indian tea, all crafted with genuine spices, herbs, or just pure leaves. Many visitors find this a great way to take home a piece of India’s tea culture—whether as gifts or personal treats.

The atmosphere in the shop is casual yet informative. Based on reviews, visitors found the staff “kind and not pushy,” which enhances the experience, especially for those wary of commercial sales pitches. The relaxed environment is perfect for tea lovers who want to learn without pressure.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The regional diversity of teas is a highlight. India’s seven distinctive tea-growing regions produce flavors you rarely find outside the country, and Sancha Tea offers a window into that world. You’ll learn about how geography, climate, and soil influence the taste—an educational aspect that elevates a simple tasting into a cultural exploration.

The expertise of Sanjay Kapur adds a layer of trustworthiness. His reputation as a master tea taster means you’re getting insights rooted in years of experience, not just generic descriptions. This helps you appreciate the complexity of Indian teas and their subtle nuances.

Pricing is another major plus. For $7, the value of tasting and learning about over 100 teas is remarkable, especially considering the quality and authenticity. The store’s reputation and the chance to try rare small-batch teas make it an excellent choice for those wanting a deep dive into Indian tea culture without breaking the bank.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour lasts about an hour, which is just enough time to enjoy a relaxed, educational session without feeling rushed. It begins at 10:30 AM and runs until 5:30 PM, Monday through Saturday. Since bookings are usually made 17 days in advance, it’s wise to plan early, especially if you’re visiting during busy travel seasons.

Your group is capped at 20 people, ensuring you get personalized attention and can ask plenty of questions. The meeting point, at the shop’s location in Daryaganj, is accessible via nearby public transportation, making it easy to include in your Delhi itinerary.

Confirmation comes instantly upon booking, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours beforehand, allowing flexibility if your plans change. Keep in mind, the tour is weather-dependent—bad weather might lead to rescheduling or a full refund.

Authentic and Enjoyable for Tea Aficionados

Whether you’re a seasoned tea lover or just curious about India’s rich tea heritage, this experience offers genuine value. Travelers who enjoy learning about regional differences and tasting unique blends will find this session both fun and enlightening. The personalized service and expert guidance make it stand out from standard tastings or shops.

Those interested in buying Indian teas or gifts will especially appreciate the opportunity to explore the store’s extensive collection, crafted with real spices, herbs, and flowers. It’s an excellent spot for souvenirs or educational gifts for friends back home.

The Sum Up

This tea tasting experience at Sancha Tea is a treasure for anyone seeking a deep, authentic look into Indian teas. For a modest price, you’ll enjoy a curated selection of rare and exquisite teas, guided by an expert who is passionate about sharing India’s rich tea culture. The relaxed, friendly atmosphere and focus on regionally distinct flavors make it ideal for curious travelers, tea lovers, or those simply wanting a thoughtfully crafted, memorable activity in Delhi.

While it’s not designed for large groups or sightseeing, it offers a refreshing and intimate insight into India’s tea diversity—an experience that’s both educational and delicious. If you’re seeking a peaceful, flavorful break from busy sightseeing, this is a wonderful choice.

FAQ

What is the cost of this tea tasting session?
It costs $7 per person, offering excellent value considering the variety and quality of teas you’ll sample.

How long does the experience last?
The session lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a perfect short activity that fits well into a busy day.

How many teas can I expect to taste?
You can taste around 13 different teas, including black, white, green, herbal, and masala blends.

Is prior booking necessary?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 17 days in advance because the tour is popular and limited to 20 participants.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Aap Ki Pasand Tea Gallery in Daryaganj, Delhi, located opposite Golcha Cinema.

Can I buy teas during the session?
Absolutely. You’ll have access to over 100 Indian teas and blends, many of which you can purchase to take home.

Is this experience suitable for children or non-tea drinkers?
While primarily suited for tea enthusiasts, children or non-drinkers might enjoy observing and learning but will get the most out of it if they share a curiosity for tea.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect and why this tea tasting at Sancha Tea is a memorable highlight for those interested in authentic Indian teas. It’s a chance to enjoy a quiet, educational, and flavorful moment amid Delhi’s vibrant streets.