Discovering Sri Lanka's Hill Country: A Journey by Tea Plantations and Trains
Unveiling the Lush Green Beauty of Sri Lanka: A Tea Lover's Paradise
Sri Lanka, an island in South Asia, is a mesmerizing gem filled with rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and a captivating culture. One highlight that stands out is its tea plantations. If you thought tea could only be mundane, wait until you've experienced the tea fields of Sri Lanka.
Diverse Sri Lanka: A Smorgasbord of Experiences
Sri Lanka offers a smorgasbord of experiences in a relatively compact area. From the historic Sigiriya and the stunning Dambulla Caves to the almost deserted beaches and thrilling Elephant Safaris, there's an abundance of adventures waiting to be discovered.
But what truly stole my heart was the stunning, lush hill country, with the scenic train ride being one of the most beautiful train journeys I've ever undertaken. Here's what I found when I finally reached this paradise.
Nuwara Eliya: The Small Town with a Big Impact
One of the most famous stops along the train route is the charming town of Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as 'Little England'. Surrounded by lush green tea fields, the town boasts red brick Victorian-style buildings that now serve as charming guest houses and eateries. The town offers a few bars, restaurants, and friendly guesthouses for visitors.
I stayed at the Windsor Hotel, a basic yet comfortable establishment filled with warm hospitality. However, you don't come to Nuwara Eliya for the nightlife—it's all about the tea!
Exploring the Tea Plantations
Nuwara Eliya serves as an ideal base for accessing and exploring the countless tea plantations nearby. You can hire an inexpensive tuk-tuk or, for less than a dollar, hop on a bus for a 30-minute ride.
I visited two plantations here: the famous Mackwoods and the beautiful Bluefields. If you manage to sneak in a solo tour, do so! Mackwoods offers guided tours to see the process of field to tea bag, and they have a gift shop with surprisingly expensive tea that serves a fantastic free cuppa!
Bluefields, further along, is a bit of a walk (or a bus ride), but the views you'll encounter along the way are worth the effort. The area is also an agricultural hotspot, where I was fortunate enough to taste the freshest carrot my driver proudly served me on our journey back.
Ella: A Peaceful Hillside Haven
As the train approaches Ella, a dusty street filled with bars, great eats, and curd shops comes into view. Ella boasts a relaxed backpacker vibe and is an excellent place to unwind before heading to the beach.
The 98 Acres Resort offers a picture-perfect setting, with tea in abundance, a great eco-style resort, and close proximity to Little Adams Peak. The climb up Little Adams Peak isn't particularly challenging, and the stunning views from the top are a worthy reward for your effort. Ella Gap, a nearby viewpoint, offers incredible views of the surrounding countryside.
Kandy and Hatton: More Tea Adventures Await
Kandy, the second city of Sri Lanka, is home to the famous 'Buddha Tooth Relic' and the starting point of the unforgettable train journey to Nuwara Eliya. Nearby Hatton offers opportunities for venturing out to Adams Peak, a religious spot famous for its pilgrimages, and the Horton Plains, home to the fantastic world's end viewpoint. For more information on these destinations, check out the intriguing write-ups on The Planet D blog.
Whether you're a tea connoisseur or simply looking for a unique travel experience, Sri Lanka's tea plantations are a must-visit. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and prepare to be enchanted by the beauty of Sri Lanka's hills.
- The charm of Nuwara Eliya, surrounded by lush green tea fields and offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse of tea plantation operations, makes it an ideally tranquil destination for those seeking an adventure-travel experience intertwined with lifestyle exploration.
- Beyond the historic sites and picturesque landscapes, Sri Lanka's tea plantations stand as a testament to a unique blend of travel and lifestyle, presenting tea enthusiasts and adventure-seekers an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking beauty of this South Asian gem.
