Embark on a journey through the lush green terrains of Sri Lanka, where you’ll find tea plantations nestled amongst the clouds on mountain tops. These tea estates are not just a source of the world’s beloved beverage but are also a testament to the country’s rich heritage of tea production. Let’s explore the top mountain-top tea plantations in Sri Lanka that will leave you in awe of nature’s beauty and ingenuity.
The Uva High Country Tea Estates
Highland Garden
Situated in the lush high country of Uva, Highland Garden is one of the highest altitude tea plantations in Sri Lanka, sprawling at a staggering 2,200 meters above sea level. It’s not just altitude that makes the tea here stand out, but the skill and dedication of its staff. The estate boasts of a wide variety of tea types, including high-grade orange pekoe and high-grown leaf teas, with the tea leaves being plucked by hand. With picturesque views and a serene atmosphere, Highland Garden offers a truly unique experience.
The Nuwara Eliya District
Horton Plains National Park and Hatton’s Victoria Estate
If you’re looking for a complete tea plantation experience, you should head to the Nuwara Eliya District. This region is not only home to some of the oldest tea plantations in Sri Lanka but also a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Horton Plains National Park. Here you’ll find Victoria Estate, one of the oldest and most historic tea estates in the country. With its picturesque landscapes and traditional tea processing methods, Victoria Estate is a must-visit for tea enthusiasts.
The Central Highlands and Nuwara Eliya’s Ceylon Tea Trails
Ceylon Tea Trails
For those who seek a luxurious experience, Ceylon Tea Trails offers an exclusive tea plantation experience. Nestled on the slopes of the central highlands, Ceylon Tea Trails offers a unique stay that combines the luxury of a boutique hotel with a tea plantation experience. With five properties, including the famous “Tea Bungalows”, visitors can experience the beauty of Sri Lanka’s highlands while enjoying the best of Ceylon tea.
The Eastern High Country and the Blue Field Estate
Blue Field Tea Estate
Head to the Eastern High Country for a less-trodden path and a unique tea plantation experience. With its picturesque beauty and a wide variety of tea types, Blue Field Tea Estate is a true gem in the high country of Eastern Sri Lanka. The estate’s unique production process ensures the highest quality tea leaves, making it a must-visit for tea enthusiasts.
The Eastern Uva Slopes and the Haputale’s Dambulla Tea Factory
Dambulla Tea Factory
If you’re a fan of traditional tea processing methods, you’ll love the Dambulla Tea Factory. The estate, nestled on the slopes of the Eastern Uva region, produces tea that stands out due to its unique production process. With its picturesque landscapes and a wide variety of tea types, Dambulla Tea Factory offers a unique tea plantation experience.
As you’ve seen, Sri Lanka is not just about beaches and landscapes; it’s also home to some of the world’s finest mountain-top tea plantations. From the Uva High Country Tea Estates to the Eastern Uva Slopes, each tea plantation offers a unique experience. So, pack your bags and make the most of Sri Lanka’s high altitude tea plantations.