Sri Lankan Tea
Sri Lanka, often called the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, is also celebrated for producing some of the finest tea in the world. Known internationally as Ceylon Tea, it is more than just a drink. It represents a national heritage, a way of life, and a centuries-old tradition rooted in the misty highlands of the island.
From the rolling plantations of Nuwara Eliya to tasting rooms in Ella and Kandy, every cup of Sri Lankan tea tells a story of nature, craftsmanship, and culture.
A Brief History of Ceylon Tea
The story of tea in Sri Lanka began in the 19th century during British colonial rule. Before tea, the island was dominated by coffee plantations. After a devastating leaf disease wiped out coffee crops, planters sought alternatives.
In 1867, James Taylor, a Scottish planter, established the first tea estate at Loolecondera near Kandy. His experiment proved successful, and Sri Lanka quickly grew into one of the largest tea producers in the world. Today, Ceylon Tea is a global symbol of quality and tradition.
Types of Ceylon Tea
Ceylon Tea is not just one type of tea but a collection of flavors and styles grown across the different regions and elevations of Sri Lanka. The tea leaves are processed in different ways to create black, green, and white tea, each with its own unique color, taste, health benefits, and appearance.
Sri Lanka’s combination of tropical sunshine, cool mountain air, and rich soil gives each type of tea a distinct character. Here’s a closer look at the three main types:
Ceylon Black Tea
Ceylon black tea is the most popular and widely consumed type of tea produced in Sri Lanka. The leaves are fully oxidized, which gives the tea a rich, dark color and bold flavor. Depending on the region it is grown, Ceylon black tea can have citrusy, spicy, floral, or malty notes. It is often enjoyed with milk and sugar but is just as refreshing when served plain or iced.
Health Benefits:
Rich in antioxidants, improves heart health, and boosts energy.
Where It Grows Best:
Nuwara Eliya, Dimbula, Kandy, and Ruhuna regions.
Ceylon Green Tea
Ceylon green tea is made by gently steaming or pan-firing the tea leaves to stop oxidation. This results in a lighter, greener tea with a fresh, grassy flavor and a pale yellow or greenish color. It is smoother than many other green teas and is often described as more delicate and less bitter. Ceylon green tea is ideal for those looking for a refreshing and healthy beverage.
Health Benefits:
High in antioxidants, supports weight loss, and promotes healthy skin.
Where It Grows Best:
Uva, Nuwara Eliya, and southern lowland estates.
Ceylon White Tea
Ceylon white tea is the most rare and delicate of all Sri Lankan teas. It is made from the unopened buds of the tea plant, which are carefully handpicked and dried in the sun with minimal processing. This creates a light, subtle tea with a silky texture and naturally sweet flavor. It is low in caffeine and extremely high in antioxidants.
Health Benefits:
Promotes glowing skin, strengthens immunity, and supports heart health.
Where It Grows Best:
Handunugoda Estate (near Galle) and highland areas of Nuwara Eliya.
Tea-Growing Regions of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s tea is world-famous not just because of how it’s made, but also where it is grown. The country’s diverse landscape includes high mountain peaks, rolling hills, and tropical lowlands, each creating its own unique flavor in the tea leaf.
Nuwara Eliya
Located over 6,000 feet above sea level, Nuwara Eliya is the highest tea-growing area in Sri Lanka. The cool, misty climate and slow-growing tea bushes result in light, fragrant teas with floral or citrusy notes. The tea is pale in color and often considered the finest of Ceylon teas. It is also referred to as the “Champagne of Ceylon Tea”.
Dimbula
Stretching across the central highlands near Hatton and Nanu Oya, Dimbula tea is grown between 3,500 and 5,500 feet. The region’s seasonal monsoon winds and cool temperatures create teas that are brisk, bright, and clean-tasting. It is a popular choice for breakfast blends and afternoon tea.
Ceylon Tea Around the World
Sri Lanka exports tea to over one hundred countries and remains one of the top tea exporters globally. The packaging marked with the Lion Logo signifies pure Ceylon Tea, packed in Sri Lanka under strict quality standards. This certification ensures authenticity and superior quality.