The Art of Tea: Exploring Sri Lanka's Low Country Tea Plantations
By:
Walks and Experiences
On
06/04/2024Reading time:
12 min
Summary:
Nestled amidst the rolling hills and verdant landscapes of Sri Lanka's low country, tea plantations stand as a testament to the island's rich agricultural heritage. From the moment the first saplings were planted by British colonists in the 19th century, tea has played a central role in shaping the island's economy and culture. Join us on a journey as we explore the art of tea, from plantation to cup, and discover the timeless beauty of Sri Lanka's low country tea estates.
A low-country tea plantation
A processing factory is seen in the background of low country tea nurseries
Unraveling the History:
The story of tea in Sri Lanka traces its roots back to the 19th century when British planters introduced the crop to the island's fertile hillsides. Initially cultivated for coffee, tea soon emerged as the dominant crop following the devastating coffee blight of the 1860s. Today, the low country region, with its warm climate and rich soil, is home to some of the island's most renowned tea estates, producing a variety of teas prized for their flavour and aroma.
A low-country tea plantation walk
Exploring Tea Estates:
Venturing into the heart of Sri Lanka's low country, visitors are greeted by a tapestry of emerald-green hillsides adorned with neatly manicured rows of tea bushes. Here, amid the gentle slopes and misty valleys, lie some of the island's most iconic tea estates, each with its own story to tell. From the historic estates of Dilmah and Lipton to the boutique plantations of Wilehena, Handunugoda and Somerset, the low country is a paradise for tea enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in the art of tea cultivation.
Learning the Craft:
A visit to a low country tea plantation offers a firsthand glimpse into the intricate process of tea cultivation and production. From plucking the tender tea leaves by hand to withering, rolling, and fermenting, every step of the process is a testament to the skill and dedication of the tea artisans who craft each batch of tea with care. Visitors can witness these age-old techniques firsthand, as expert guides lead them on tours of the estates, offering insights into the nuances of tea production and the art of tea tasting.
Savouring the Flavors
Savouring the Flavors: No visit to a tea plantation would be complete without sampling the fruits of its labour. At the end of a guided tour, visitors are invited to indulge in a tasting session, where they can savour a variety of teas, from delicate white teas to robust black teas and fragrant green teas. Each cup tells a story, reflecting the terroir of the region and the skill of the tea master who crafted it. Whether enjoyed hot or cold, with milk or without, Sri Lanka's low country teas are a sensory delight that captivates the palate and invigorates the soul.
Plucking the tips of the tea bushes
Plucked leaves are spread on these troughs
Embracing the Tea Culture:
Beyond the plantation gates, tea permeates every aspect of Sri Lankan life, from morning rituals to social gatherings and festive occasions. In villages and towns across the low country, tea shops and stalls serve as gathering places where locals come together to share stories, laughter, and of course, cups of steaming hot tea. Here, amidst the chatter and bustle, visitors can experience the warmth and hospitality for which Sri Lanka is renowned, as they immerse themselves in the vibrant tea culture of the island.
As we bid farewell to Sri Lanka's low-country tea plantations, we carry with us memories of a journey filled with discovery, wonder, and enchantment. From the lush green hillsides to the fragrant tea rooms, the art of tea is a celebration of nature's bounty and human ingenuity. Whether exploring the historic estates, sampling the exquisite flavours, or simply soaking in the tranquil beauty of the tea gardens, a visit to Sri Lanka's low country tea plantations is an experience that leaves a lasting impression on the heart and soul.
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