Tea cultivation was founded in Sri Lanka over two centuries ago, ensuring that tea production has been mastered over time. Ceylon tea is considered to be one of the world’s finest teas.
The beautiful island of Sri Lanka, fondly tagged as the ‘pearl of the Indian Ocean’, is often named as one of the best tourist destinations. This nation filled with picturesque views, amazing biodiversity and a rich culture definitely makes for an ideal vacation spot. For many tea enthusiasts across the world, Sri Lanka has a special place in their hearts because of the deep rooted connection between this country and tea.
Tea plays quite a central role in the history and development of Sri Lanka. Tea production is one of the main sources of foreign exchange for Sri Lanka while we are proud to be the world’s fourth largest producer of tea. Tea cultivation was founded in Sri Lanka over two centuries ago, ensuring that tea production has been mastered over time. Ceylon tea is considered to be one of the world’s finest teas.
So if you are a tea lover, visiting Sri Lanka and enjoying a unique tea experience from one of the world’s best producers should definitely be on your bucket list. And even if you aren’t, it is not an experience that should be passed. Besides no one can deny the wonderful aroma of tea right? So here is a list of things to do in Kandy, from experiencing tea to enjoying the sites Kandy has to offer.
1. Taylor’s Seat
Taylor’s seat is named after James Taylor who was the planter in charge of the Loolkandura Estate in Kandy. This plantation originated as a small patch of tea to test the possibility of successful tea plantation. This seat is constructed as a tribute to the man who is attributed in playing a huge role in the world recognition of ‘Ceylon Tea’. Although the seat itself is not very impressive, the magnificent view that can be observed from this view and the opportunity to walk through the plantation which occupies a prominent place in Sri Lankan history is definitely impressive.
2. Lipton Seat
Sir Thomas Lipton, who was a Scottish tea Barron, was said to have surveyed his empire from this point. And once you visit this place you will be able to understand why it made the perfect spot. Lipton’s seat is a beautiful spot for panoramic views as it overlooks the Kandy district. The climb to this seat may be a tiring one but we assure you that it will be worth it.
3. Damro Labookellie Tea Centre
Damro tea is produced using the finest handpicked leaves from plantations across Sri Lanka. At the high-grown elevation of Labookellie, you are given the opportunity to experience the process of how tea is made. The tour takes you through the factory floors where you can witness the process of grading, drying and conditioning of tea leaves. This tour accompanied with a stunning view should not be missed.
4. Kalabokka 360 degree view point
This viewpoint has recently become a trending destination and is located on the border of the Matale and Kandy districts. Visiting this view point on a clear day will definitely be a treat. The central highlands, Kandy city, Sembuwatte Lake and even the Knuckles Mountain range can be observed from this point.
5. Ceylon Tea Museum
This tea museum is located three kilometers away from Kandy city and will provide you with an opportunity to experience tea like never before. Two floors of this museum is dedicated to exhibiting old items of machinery which gives you an insight to the rich history of tea plantation. This museum also includes tea sales outlets and a tea café allowing you to enjoy the beautiful view of Kandy town while sipping a freshly brewed cup of tea.
6. Sembuwatta Lake
Sembuwatta Lake is a popular tourist attraction among locals and foreigners. This is located in the Matale district and is adjacent to the Campbell’s Lane Forest Reserve and a small tea estate. This man-made lake created from natural spring water is a great place to spend your day. A swim in the natural pool is the best way to beat the heat.
7. Kurundu Oya Falls
Kurundu Oya Falls located in Nuwara Eliya is close to the town of Walapane. It stands at an impressive height of 189 meters and holds the position of Sri Lanka’s second highest waterfall. It is situated 100 meters down a tea plantation and needs to be taken by foot. Because of this it is a lesser known tourist attraction which guarantees seclusion, privacy and unpolluted scenic views.
