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India, known globally for its tea, is also home to some of the best coffee beans, offering a wide range of flavors from bold Robusta to delicate Arabica.

Soil diversity and favorable climatic conditions, especially in places like Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, provide the perfect conditions to produce premium coffees. 

Whether you prefer the bold, intense flavor of Robusta or the smooth, aromatic taste of Arabica, India's coffee beans cater to every palate.

Whether you’re an espresso connoisseur looking to kick up hard or someone who loves smooth drinks with subtle fruits, coffee beans in India have something for everyone. Below we will talk about some of the best coffee beans in India.. 

Key-Coffee Growing Regions in India

India primarily has two main coffee-growing regions: Karnataka (particularly in the districts of Chikmagalur and Coorg) and Kerala, followed by some significant production in Tamil Nadu (Nilgiris) and the Northeastern states (like Assam and Meghalaya). Coffee from these regions mainly comes in two main varieties:

• Arabica: It is known for its smooth and mild flavor, a lower amount of caffeine content, and acidic notes.
• Robusta:  Robusta has a Stronger, bolder flavor with a higher caffeine content than arabica, and is commonly used in espresso blends.

Best Indian Coffee Beans

Here are some of the best coffee beans in India, which are known for their unique characteristics:

1. Monsooned Malabar

• Region: Karnataka and Kerala
• Variety: Arabica and Robusta
• Flavor Profile: Lower acidity content, smooth body, earthy and spicy undertones, with a special process through which a monsoon flavor is given to the beans 
• Special Notes: As these beans are exposed to the monsoon winds a distinct flavor and smoothness is spread, making it perfect for those people who like a less acidic, full-bodied cup.

 2. Coorg Arabica

• Region: Coorg, Karnataka
• Variety: Arabica
• Flavor Profile:  has a Balanced acidity with fruity and nutty undertones, medium body, and a decent finish.
• Special Notes: Coorg is one of India’s leading coffee-growing regions. The beans from these regions are known for their aromatic profile and balanced flavor, making them appropriate for filter coffee or French Press.

3. Chikmagalur Estate Coffee

• Region: Chikmagalur, Karnataka
• Variety: Arabica and Robusta
• Flavor Profile: A full-bodied cup with a slight amount of chocolate and spices, giving a bold and robust flavor.
• Special Notes: Chikmagalur is the birthplace of coffee in India. The coffee produced in this region has a strong and rich aroma, it is usually used in South Indian filter coffee blends. 

4. Araku Valley Coffee

• Region: Andhra Pradesh
• Variety: Arabica
• Flavor Profile: Sweet, fruity notes with mild acidity and a smooth body.
• Special Notes: Araku coffee is organic and shade-grown, usually praised for its unique taste that combines well with some chocolate and caramel. The beans of this region are cultivated by the local tribal farmers, making the beans a socially conscious purchase.

5. Baba Budangiri

• Region: Karnataka (Baba Budangiri Hills)
• Variety: Arabica
• Flavor Profile: Floral and spicy notes, with balanced acidity and a medium body.
• Special Notes:  it is named after Baba Budan, who is regarded for bringing coffee to India from Yemen, some of the most well-liked coffee beans are produced in this region.

6. Wayanad Coffee

• Region: Kerala
• Variety: Robusta
• Flavor Profile: Full-bodied, bold flavor with earthy and nutty tones, usually used for strong espresso shots.
• Special Notes: Wayanad is known for producing excellent quality Robusta beans, which are valued for their bold flavor profile and are usually mixed with Arabica for a balanced espresso.

7. Nilgiri Blue Mountain

• Region: Tamil Nadu
• Variety: Arabica
• Flavor Profile: strong acidity with fruity and floral notes, medium body, and a rich finish.
• Special Notes:  It is grown in the Nilgiri Hills, this coffee is widely known for its unique sharpness and aromatic qualities, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy an intense cup of coffee with complex flavors.

Organic and Single-Origin Coffees

For coffee lovers and those who are looking for a more viable choice, India offers various organic and single-origin coffee options that prioritize eco-friendly farming practices.

a. Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters

• Region:Coorg, Chikmagalur, and Araku Valley
• Special Notes: Blue Tokai is one of India’s most popular specialty coffee brands, providing single-origin beans from various estates. Their main focus is on small-batch roasting, making sure of freshness and top quality in every cup. Their offerings range from fruity Arabicas to strong Robustas.

b. Black Baza Coffee

• Region: Coorg and Biligirirangana Hills, Karnataka
• Special Notes: A preservation-focused initiative, Black Baza Coffee promotes and supports local farmers and practices forest farming. Their single-origin coffee is certified organic and provides a range of flavor profiles, from nutty and sweet to dark and bold.

c. The Flying Squirrel

• Region: Coorg, Karnataka
• Special Notes: This brand provides a variety of single-origin and estate-specific coffees, with beans sun-dried, shade-dried, or honey-sun-dried. The Flying Squirrel is widely known for its innovative approach to coffee production, providing diverse flavors ranging from citrusy to chocolatey.

Where to Buy Indian Coffee Beans

You can buy coffee beans in India, online, or at specialty stores. Here below are some of the online stores where you can get the best coffee beans in India.

• Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters: For a variety of single-origin options and fresh roasts.
• The Flying Squirrel: For innovative, estate-specific coffees.
• Sleepy Owl: famous for its cold brew kits and blends.
• Araku Coffee: Organic, direct-from-farm option is also there 

Conclusion 

Cultivated over centuries, India’s rich coffee culture is reflected in the uniqueness and diversity of the best coffee beans in India.

Whether the earth-toned monsoonal Malabar or the sweet and fruity beans of the Araku Valley, every coffee-growing region in India contributes its unique flavor to the coffee world.

Single-origin and organic coffee beans are gaining popularity, especially from specialty brands like Blue Tokai and The Flying Squirrel Lovers get a chance to experience the essence of Indian coffee. Whether you are looking for a thick espresso blend or a light and delicious drink, coffee beans in India offer the perfect blend of tradition, flavor, and sustainability.

India is among the top coffee-producing countries in the world, widely known for its different coffee plantations and unique flavor profiles from different regions.

Most coffee cultivation happens in the southern part of the country, with few states producing Arabica and Robusta coffee varieties.

Let us talk about the top 10 coffee producing states in India, their coffee characteristics, their contribution to the country’s coffee industry, and which is the largest coffee-producing state in India.

Top 10 Coffee Producing States

 1. Karnataka

• Region: Western Ghats, Chikmagalur, Coorg, and Hassan
• Production Share: 71% of India’s total coffee output
• Key Varieties: Arabica and Robusta
• Famous Brands: Coorg Coffee, Chikmagalur Coffee

Karnataka, which is the largest coffee-producing state of India, contributes to more than two-thirds of the country’s coffee cultivation.

Coffee cultivation mainly happens in the Western Ghats, particularly in Coorg (Kodagu), Chikmagalur, and Hassan.

These regions are widely known for their shade-grown coffee and rich soil, which bring out beans with complex flavors.

The state's weather and altitude provide perfect conditions for growing both Arabica and Robusta.

Arabica beans from Karnataka are known for their mild acidity and rich aroma, while robusta beans from the region are said to be prized for their firm body and earthy flavours, often used in coffee blends and instant coffee.

While the demand for high-quality coffee is high on the other hand robusta beans from this region are often in demand for use in espresso blends and instant coffee, making Karnataka an important player in domestic and international coffee markets.

The state contributes significantly to India’s coffee exports, with a large portion of the Arabica being exported to Europe and the US, where the demand for high-quality coffee is substantial

• Coorg Coffee:  It is known for its slight acidity and fruity undertones, Coorg’s Arabica beans are highly looked after.
• Chikmagalur Coffee: The root of Indian coffee, cultivating beans with rich aromas and smooth textures.

2. Kerala

• Region: Wayanad, Idukki, Palakkad
• Production Share: 21%
• Varieties: Robusta and Arabica

Kerala holds the second position in coffee producing states in India, mainly cultivating Robusta beans.

The Wayanad district is especially famous for its high-quality Robusta beans, which are widely known for their full-bodied flavor and low level of acidity.

Coffee cultivation in Kerala aids from its hot and humid weather conditions and rich soil, especially in regions like Idukki and Palakkad, which also cultivates  Arabica beans.

• Wayanad Robusta: It is acclaimed for its smooth, full-bodied flavor, commonly used in espresso blends.

3. Tamil Nadu

• Region: Nilgiri Hills, Yercaud, Kodaikanal, Shevaroy Hills
• Production Share:  Around 5 %
• Varieties: Arabica and Robusta

Tamil Nadu is known for its high-altitude Arabica coffee and holds the third position in coffee producing states in India.

The cold weather and fertile soil of this region result in coffee with strong acidity and fruity flavors. The Shevaroy Hills in the state also cultivate notable shade-grown Arabica coffee, which is famous for its delicate flavors.

• Nilgiri Coffee:  It is Famous for its pleasing aroma and medium body.
• Yercaud Coffee:  It is Known for its nutty and floral notes.

4. Andhra Pradesh 

• Region: Araku Valley, Visakhapatnam
• Production Share: Growing but still under 2%
• Key Varieties: Arabica
• Famous Brands: Araku Coffee

Araku Valley in Andhra Pradesh has come out as one of the most sensational new coffee regions in India and holds the fourth position in coffee producing states in India.

The valley is Located in the Eastern Ghats, this tribal region generates high-quality organic Arabica coffee. The coffee that comes from this region is famous for its organic cultivation methods, rich flavor, and chocolatey notes.

• Araku Coffee: This variety of coffee is continuously gaining acceptance globally for its complex, fruity flavor and rich aroma, cultivated through sustainable agricultural methods by local tribal communities.

5. Odisha

• Region: Koraput
• Production Share: Around 2%
• Key Varieties: Arabica
• Famous Brands: Koraput Coffee

Koraput in the southern part of  Odisha is another high-flyer in India’s coffee landscape and holds the fifth position in coffee producing states in India.

The cool climate, high altitude, and rich soils make it the perfect place for growing Arabica coffee.

Coffee cultivation in this region has been established as a component of sustainable farming initiatives, with a main focus on organic practices.

• Koraput Coffee: Known for its mild and balanced flavor profile, with a slight amount of fruit and nuts. The coffee from this region is looked after for its high quality and smooth texture.

6. Assam 

• Region: Dibrugarh, Cachar
• Production Share: Less than 1%
• Key Varieties: Robusta and Arabica
• Famous Brands: Cachar Coffee

Assam is mainly known for its tea cultivation and has also moved into coffee production. The Cachar district is a vital point for coffee cultivation in Assam, and the state’s coffee-growing regions aid from the region’s unique soil and climatic conditions.

The coffee industry of Assam has grown rapidly in recent years, as programs aimed at diversification from tea cultivation to coffee. 

Thanks to a suitable climate and fertile soil, Assam is undertaking a major mark as a coffee-producing region, it is providing opportunities for local farmers and supporting the growing Indian coffee industry

• Cachar Coffee: The coffee produced here is generally characterized by earthy and spicy undertones, with a medium body, which makes it appropriate for blends.

7. Tripura

• Region: North Tripura, Gomati
• Production Share: Small but growing
• Key Varieties: Arabica and Robusta

Tripura, another northeastern state, has seen amplified interest in coffee cultivation, specifically in its hilly regions.

Coffee farming here is still in its early phase, but the growth possibility is quite high stating the favorable conditions for both Arabica and Robusta varieties of Coffee.

Tripura is fast emerging as a promising coffee-producing state, as more and more farmers shift from traditional crops to coffee farming.

The government has also taken measures to boost coffee growing by providing subsidies and encouraging sustainable agriculture, helping to increase coffee production each year

• Tripura Coffee:  It is known for growing coffee with a unique flavor profile, mixing both sweet and bitter notes, it is mainly used for local consumption but is gradually making its way into main markets.

8. Nagaland

• Region: Mon, Mokokchung
• Production Share: Emerging producer
• Key Varieties: Arabica

Nagaland’s coffee cultivation is recently developed, but the state has been acknowledged for its attempt to encourage sustainable coffee farming. The hilly terrains and tropical climate of Nagaland give the perfect environment for the cultivation of Arabica coffee.

The rapid growth in coffee production in Nagaland is due to various programs to improve the agricultural production of the state.

With an increased focus on organic and eco-friendly coffee, Nagaland is on its way to becoming a key state in India’s speciality coffee industry, contributing to the local economy and the country’s coffee export yield.

• Nagaland Coffee:  Known for its moderate acidity and smooth texture, Nagaland’s Arabica beans have begun to make their way in the market, especially in organic and specialty coffee markets.

9. Manipur

• Region: Ukhrul, Senapati
• Production Share: Small-scale
• Key Varieties: Arabica and Robusta

Manipur is another northeastern state which is making progress in coffee cultivation, especially in its high-altitude regions. Coffee from Manipur is acclaimed for its capacity to grow in organic and sustainable farming practices.

Manipur's coffee industry is growing rapidly as more farmers opt for coffee farming due to higher cost advantages compared to traditional crops Government support and growing demand for specialty organic coffee have played a key role in this transformation, positioning Manipur as an emerging state in India’s coffee market.

• Manipur Coffee: The coffee from Manipur is described by its light body and fine aroma, with a sweet and fruity flavor profile that intrigues specialty coffee lovers.

10. Meghalaya

• Region: Khasi Hills, Jaintia Hills
• Production Share: Emerging producer
• Key Varieties: Arabica

Meghalaya has beneficial conditions for coffee cultivation due to its cold weather and altitude. The state's main aim is organic coffee production, mainly in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, regions widely known for their natural beauty and fertile soil.

• Meghalaya Coffee: Coffee from this region has a fruity flavor with a slight taste of citrus and chocolate, credited to the unique terroir of the Khasi Hills.

Conclusion 

The coffee industry in India is entwined with the country's geographical and climatic conditions, enabling coffee producing states in India to thrive.

From Karnataka, which is the largest coffee-producing state in India, to the newly emerging regions in the northeastern states, each state has its blends of flavors and climatic conditions for coffee growing.

The direction of organic farming and sustainable agriculture for the production of coffee means only growth for the industry in India.

From the full-bodied Robusta of Kerala to the aromatic Arabica from Tamil Nadu or the Organics from Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, coffee producing states in India have immense importance as major contributors to India’s claim in the international market.