The Cardamom Hill Reserve
Located in the Idukki district, the Cardamom Hill Reserve (CHR) is the only place on Earth with the perfect microclimate for *Elettaria cardamomum*. However, not all land within the reserve is equal.
The region is classified into three distinct zones based on altitude, mist retention, and soil density. Gijee Spices harvests exclusively from Zone A.
PROOF OF ORIGIN: Coordinates: 9.7625° N, 77.1765° E
The Hierarchy of Harvest
Why location dictates aroma.
Zone A
Vandanmedu • Mali • Kumily
The "Gold Standard." Located at 3,000–4,000 ft, this zone combines mist and forest loam soil to produce pods with thick skins and deep green color.
- ● Oil Content: 8-10% (Highest)
Zone B
Pampadumpara • Nedumkandam
The "Standard Belt." Known for agricultural research and consistent yield. The quality is high, but marginally lower in oil density than Zone A.
- ● Oil Content: High
Zone C
Karunapuram • Anakkara
The "Lower Belt." Warmer temperatures and less mist cause the green color to fade faster. Pods are generally lighter in weight.
- ● Oil Content: Moderate
Sorted by Us. Chosen by You.
While nature dictates the exceptional oil content of Zone A, we dictate the precision of the size. We harvest the bulk Zone A cardamom—rich in oil and aroma—and process it through our facility to meet your exact needs.
Whether you require the massive 8mm+ (AGEB) for luxury retail or the 6mm+ (AGB) for commercial blends, we sort the same high-quality Zone A harvest into specific grades. You get the Zone A flavor in every single size.
TERROIR: High Altitude Mist & Volcanic Soil
Mist, Loam & Temperature
The Western Ghats provide a consistent, cool temperature ranging between 10°C and 25°C, shielded from extreme heat. The soil here is forest loam—rich in organic matter and volcanic minerals.
This unique terroir allows our pods to retain their vibrant green color naturally. When a package from GIJEE SPICES is opened, the aroma is as potent as the moment it was harvested—a direct result of this misty, nutrient-rich environment.
The "Mysore" Distinction
Mysore Variety
Native to the high-altitude, high-rainfall areas of Zone A. This variety produces the large, deep green, 3-cornered pods that define luxury cardamom. It is prized for its superior aesthetic and oil retention.
Malabar Variety
Common in lower altitudes (Zone C) or drier regions. These pods are smaller, rounder, and have a distinct "camphor-like" aroma. While useful for grinding, they lack the visual perfection of the Mysore variety.
We Know The Product
Better Than The Business.
Gijee Spices has been in the cardamom plantations for four generations. We are not traders sitting in an office; we are farmers walking the slopes.
We know exactly when a pod is ready to be plucked—not a day early, not a day late. This ensures you receive the "Right Thing." Each pod is plucked, dried, and packed by us, maintaining absolute genuinity.
We are not dealers. We are the source.