Ceylon Tea

Have you ever tried Ceylon tea? If not I’m sure you must’ve at least heard of it somewhere (especially if you’re interested in going to Sri Lanka).

Ceylon tea is one of Sri Lanka’s most distinguishing trades, having started its production in British Colonialist times. It is still much loved to this day, and characterises the islands central province through sprawls of lush hilly tea plantations.

The trade was first discovered by James Taylor in 1847, a British planter who moved from the UK to Kandy, recognising the profitability in Sri Lanka’s tea trade. Since then it has grown and grown to make the country one of the world’s leading exporters of tea. As well as a main source of foreign trade and industry, Ceylon tea is also an important part of the countries identity, heritage and traditions.

It is the islands humid climate, mixed with monsoon rainfalls and cooler air in the hills that provides the perfect setting for tea to grow in. Tourists can even visit tea plantations to experience the industry first hand, getting to explore the natural and beautiful grounds it grows in and also getting to try it freshly made. After one of these trips you’ll never think of tea in the same way, and every cup will transport you back to the exotic landscapes and spirited ambience of Sri Lanka!