Skip to content

Regions

Here’s a list of the major coffee-producing states and regions in India, along with geographic information:

1. Karnataka

  • Regions:
    • Chikmagalur: Often called the "Coffee Land of Karnataka," Chikmagalur is located in the foothills of the Western Ghats. It has an ideal climate with moderate rainfall and high altitudes (around 900-1,500 meters above sea level), making it perfect for Arabica coffee.
    • Kodagu (Coorg): A leading coffee-growing region, Coorg produces both Arabica and Robusta. The district's high rainfall, cool temperatures, and rich red soil create a fertile environment for coffee cultivation.
    • Hassan: Known for producing high-quality Arabica coffee, this region is characterized by its elevation and favorable weather conditions, producing coffee with good body and acidity.
  • Key Information:
    • Karnataka is the largest coffee-producing state in India, accounting for over 70% of the country's coffee production.
    • Coffee is grown under the shade of evergreen trees, contributing to its unique flavor profiles.

2. Kerala

  • Regions:
    • Wayanad: Located in the northern part of Kerala, Wayanad is famous for its Robusta coffee. Coffee plantations here are found in the hilly terrain of the Western Ghats, at altitudes of around 700-1,200 meters.
    • Idukki: This region also produces Robusta, with plantations thriving in its high-altitude, mist-covered hills. Idukki is known for its eco-friendly and organic farming methods.
    • Palakkad: Another coffee-growing district in Kerala, Palakkad produces both Robusta and Arabica. The coffee here benefits from the rich biodiversity of the region.
  • Key Information:
    • Kerala accounts for around 20% of India’s total coffee production, with the majority being Robusta.
    • Coffee farms in Kerala are often smaller and more sustainable, with many organic and eco-friendly practices.

3. Tamil Nadu

  • Regions:
    • Nilgiris (Blue Mountains): Located in the southern part of India, Nilgiris is known for growing high-quality Arabica coffee. The cool climate and high altitudes (around 1,000-2,000 meters) contribute to a unique flavor profile that is often floral and fruity.
    • Yercaud: Located in the Shevaroy Hills, Yercaud grows both Arabica and Robusta. The region's tropical climate and hilly terrain provide the perfect conditions for coffee cultivation.
    • Pulney Hills (Kodaikanal): The Pulney Hills also produce Arabica coffee. This region has a cooler climate and high elevations, making it ideal for growing high-quality Arabica beans.
  • Key Information:
    • Tamil Nadu contributes around 5-6% of India’s total coffee production.
    • The state is known for its high-altitude plantations, particularly Arabica, and its diverse coffee profiles, from fruity to floral.

4. Andhra Pradesh

  • Region:
    • Araku Valley: Located in the Eastern Ghats, Araku Valley is a relatively new but rapidly growing coffee region. Coffee is cultivated organically at altitudes of 900-1,100 meters. The region is known for its sustainable practices and produces high-quality Arabica beans.
  • Key Information:
    • Araku Valley coffee is gaining international recognition for its quality, with a focus on organic and fair-trade practices.
    • The tribal communities of the region are deeply involved in coffee cultivation, with support from various cooperatives.

5. Odisha

  • Region:
    • Koraput: This region in the Eastern Ghats of Odisha has become a significant player in India’s coffee production. Coffee is grown at altitudes of 900-1,200 meters. The region primarily grows Arabica, known for its fine quality and distinct flavor.
  • Key Information:
    • Coffee cultivation in Koraput is relatively new, but the region has gained attention for producing high-quality Arabica beans.
    • It is a focus area for tribal development programs, with a shift toward sustainable, organic farming.

6. North Eastern States

  • Region:
    • Assam: Known primarily for tea, Assam has been cultivating coffee on a smaller scale. Coffee is grown in the hilly regions of Upper Assam.
    • Meghalaya: With its lush green hills and high altitudes, Meghalaya is experimenting with Arabica coffee. The state is focusing on increasing coffee production through sustainable practices.
    • Nagaland: Coffee cultivation is growing in Nagaland, where the climate and elevation are conducive to Arabica coffee production.
  • Key Information:
    • The North Eastern states are relatively new players in India’s coffee industry, but they are being promoted for sustainable coffee production.
    • The focus is mainly on Arabica coffee, and the region holds potential for future growth.

Geographical Information of Coffee in India

  • Latitude/Longitude: India’s coffee regions are primarily located between 8° and 22° North latitude and 75° to 85° East longitude, largely within the tropical zone.
  • Altitude: Coffee is typically grown at altitudes ranging from 700 to 2,000 meters above sea level in India, with Arabica thriving at higher altitudes and Robusta at lower altitudes.
  • Climate: Indian coffee is grown in regions with moderate to high rainfall, predominantly in the Western and Eastern Ghats, which provide the necessary shade, humidity, and fertile soil for coffee cultivation.

Major Coffee Varieties in India

  • Arabica: Grown mainly in the high-altitude regions of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. It has a mild flavor with bright acidity and a complex aroma.
  • Robusta: Grown primarily in Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. Robusta beans have a stronger, more bitter flavor and higher caffeine content than Arabica.

India’s diverse topography and climates contribute to the production of both Arabica and Robusta varieties, each offering a wide range of flavor profiles, from the mild and aromatic Arabicas of Karnataka to the bold and strong Robustas of Kerala. The country is also focusing on sustainable, organic, and eco-friendly practices, particularly in regions like Araku Valley and Koraput.