The story of tea in Sri Lanka starts with the Scotish planter James Taylor in 1866 in “Loolecondara” estate in Galaha. The remnants of his cottage and tea bushes are still preserved as a permanent memento to the man credited for introducing tea to Sri Lanka, he died aged 57 and was buried in Kandy cemetery, in the country he came to love as a planter. Today, almost one hundred and fifty years after James Taylor, Sri Lanka’s central hills from Hatton, Dickoya,

Bogawanthalawa, to Nuwara Eliya and every small town in higher elevations have their ground covered in a carpet of premium quality Sri Lankan tea. All the estates which were under British companies till the early 1970’s and have a character of their own, in other words they are little communities of their own with the Superintendent as the head. Visiting & spending time here with your loved ones will certainly bring nostalgic memories of the glorious past of your ancestors who once lived here. Take a walk on one of the tea trails that criss-cross these estates, watch the dusky maidens at work plucking tea buds and gathering them in rattan baskets hung behind them. A few tea factories in this area will be happy to have visitors, a tour through the work will give an insight of how tea is made from fermentation, curling, drying, sieving, to grading and packaging, some might even give you a tutoring on blending and tea tasting. During this time many churches were built by the British, most famous ones being, Warleigh in Dikoya built by the Englishman William Scot and a walk through the cemetery will be evocative, your countryman at rest in this distant corner of the Empire, Adisham monastery off Haputale of the Sylvestrine congregation, a suborder of the Benedictine fraternity, according to records there are only 18 such places in the world. Exploring tea estates is one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and cultural experiences. From scenic trails through lush tea plantations to immersive experiences in tea-making, these trails are a perfect way to connect with Sri Lanka's rich tea heritage. Here’s a roundup of the best tea estate trails to explore:

1. Pedro Tea Estate - Nuwara Eliya Highlights: Located in the "Little England" of Sri Lanka, this estate offers picturesque walking trails through manicured tea bushes against the backdrop of misty hills. Visitors can also tour the factory to learn about the tea-making process. It combines history and nature, making it one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka for tea enthusiasts. The trails are beginner-friendly and suitable for families.

2. Lipton’s Seat Trail - Haputale Highlights: This iconic trail takes you to the vantage point where Sir Thomas Lipton famously surveyed his tea empire. The hike starts from Dambatenne Tea Factory, winding through rolling plantations with stunning panoramic views. Ideal for avid hikers and history buffs, the trail provides an immersive experience of Sri Lanka's tea legacy. It’s undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka for outdoor lovers.

3. Ella Tea Plantations Highlights: The tea estate trails in Ella, such as the Demodara Loop and surrounding plantations, offer easy treks with views of iconic landmarks like the Nine Arches Bridge. Ella is a hotspot for tea trails combined with a vibrant backpacker vibe, making it perfect for those looking to mix exploration with relaxation.