Little England or the highlands of Sri Lanka is a destination longed by many locals and foreigners alike for chilly getaways, enveloped in lush greenery and cascades of glimmering waterfalls. Today we guide you on a tea plantation and factory visit to Nuwara Eliya for a fulfilling vacation in the Lankan upcountry.
The History
Long before the tourism industry in Nuwara Eliya flourished and hotels like Araliya Red were established, the region was deemed the perfect location for growing tea. Tea was first introduced to the country in 1867 by British tea planter, James Taylor. Since then, tea has come a long way in Sri Lanka, becoming one of the most contributing industries in the export sector.
Plucking
A tea estate is likely to be among the top places to visit in Nuwara Eliya during your vacation in Sri Lanka. Some tea plantations offer the opportunity to actively take part in the tea plucking process, an art that requires expertise and attention to detail. This guided session will be led by professional tea pluckers to help you collect your own tea leaves into a basket.
Tea Production
Get up close and personal with the individuals that work tirelessly in bringing your favourite cup home. The tea production tours, that begin with plucking, usually conclude in demonstrations of withering, rolling, fermentation and sorting, with its last step being tea tasting. Therefore, guests will be able to partake in a 360-degree approach to tea manufacturing during their Nuwara Eliya tea plantation visits.
Tea Tasting
Tea tasting is a vital part of the tea production process and tourists can now learn the techniques of tea tasting on a private tour. The tea-tasting experience will help guests determine the different types of teas and their distinguishing features. Tea tasting is also pivotal in preparing the right blends that stir up your favorite tea to savor with an afternoon snack.
