Stretching across the mist-covered slopes of Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, Ella, and Hatton, Sri Lanka’s tea plantations and factories form the heart of the island’s hill country heritage. Introduced by the British in the 19th century, tea cultivation transformed Sri Lanka into one of the world’s leading producers of Ceylon Tea — renowned for its rich aroma and flavor.
Visitors can explore vast emerald-green estates where tea pluckers carefully harvest the finest leaves by hand, and then step inside traditional tea factories to witness the fascinating process of withering, rolling, fermenting, drying, and grading. Guided tours often conclude with a tea-tasting session, offering guests the chance to sample fresh brews straight from the source.
Beyond its scenic beauty, the tea industry reflects a deep cultural and historical legacy — blending colonial heritage, local craftsmanship, and the timeless rhythm of life in the highlands. A visit to Sri Lanka’s tea plantations and factories is both a sensory and cultural journey, celebrating one of the island’s most iconic treasures.
