The history of tea in Darjeeling dates back to the 1840s when the British East India Company introduced tea plantations to the region. Dr. Archibald Campbell is credited with successfully cultivating tea plants in his garden, paving the way for the large-scale tea industry that exists today. The unique climate and terrain of Darjeeling proved ideal for producing high-quality tea, quickly gaining international recognition. Over time, tea gardens flourished, shaping the landscape and economy of the region. The legacy of British colonialism is still visible in the architecture and practices of some of the older tea estates.