Cinnamon is one of Sri Lanka’s top exports. In fact, up to 90% of the world’s cinnamon is first produced on this tropical island. Now, despite it being one of the world’s most popular spices, few know about the intricate processes involved in its production. Well, if you’re ever on the south side of Sri Lanka, you can learn all about it by visiting the Cinnamon Island.
Reaching the Island
This tiny island is located in the middle of Koggala Lake, so you’ll need to hire a boat to reach it; you should find plenty of fishing boats that regularly make a trip to and from the island. Since the South – particularly Galle – is a popular tourist destination, you shouldn’t have any issue finding a boutique hotel in Galle, for example, there’s the colonial themed Tamarind Hill.
Observe the Process
Once you reach the island, you’ll be able to see the cinnamon making process first-hand – from the cinnamon first being harvested from the tree to the delicate scraping process up until the sticks are ready to be dried – all of this takes place while you’re engulfed in the distinct aroma of fresh cinnamon.
Meet the Locals
A visit to Cinnamon Island also lets you mingle with the locals and learn about their way of life. Aside from the entire cinnamon making process, you can get them to show you how to make rope out of coconut fruits and how coconut leaves can be weaved together to make thatched roofs!
Stay Refreshed
After a long day of travel and excursion at the Cinnamon Island, why not relax with a nice hot cup of cinnamon tea? You can also buy some fresh cinnamon oil or sticks home with you to help spice up your dinner some night.
