The Singpho people

The Singpho of Changlang and the Assam border are the community through whom India’s indigenous tea was first identified in the 1820s, their traditional kha phal tea drinking predating the colonial industry. They are Theravada Buddhists with villages around Margherita and Ledo.

Singpho bamboo-tube tea is now a sought-after craft product.

Ask before photographing people or rituals, dress modestly at festivals and ceremonies, accept hospitality graciously, and let local hosts lead. Culture here is lived, not performed: curiosity with manners opens every door.