In pursuit of the perfect brew: 7 Tea Regions in Sri Lanka

As the sun rises over the verdant hills of Sri Lanka, a symphony of aromas fills the air, promising a journey into the world of tea unlike any other. Renowned for its exquisite teas, Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon, boasts seven distinct tea regions, each with a unique terroir and flavour profile. Join us as we embark on a sensory adventure through these enchanting landscapes, where every sip tells a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and the timeless allure of Ceylon tea.

Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya tea is known as the ‘Champagne of Teas’ with its floral notes and brisk, refreshing tones.

 

• Located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka.
  
  
• Nuwara Eliya is nestled at an elevation of 1,868 meters (6,128 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest-elevated cities in Sri Lanka.
  
  
• Known as the "Little England" of Sri Lanka due to its cool climate, Nuwara Eliya experiences a semitropical highland climate with average temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C.
  
  
• Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, Nuwara Eliya is renowned for its lush green tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and mist-covered mountains, offering breathtaking views.
  
  
• It is the heart of Sri Lanka's tea industry, with numerous tea estates dotting the hillsides.

Uva

 

Uva tea showcases flavours that are bold yet smooth, with hints of sweetness and a lingering finish.

• Uva is a province located in the Southeastern part of Sri Lanka.
  
  
• Situated in the island's interior, Uva is characterised by its diverse terrain, including mountains, valleys, and plains.
  
  
• The climate in Uva varies depending on the altitude, with some areas experiencing a subtropical highland climate and others a tropical monsoon climate.
  
  
• The province is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including tea plantations, waterfalls, and dense forests.
  
  
• Uva is one of the major tea-producing regions in Sri Lanka, with vast expanses of tea estates covering the hillsides.
  

Dimbula 

 

Dimbula tea epitomises refinement, offering a harmonious balance of strength and subtlety.

• Dimbula is a region located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka.
  
  
• Located in the hill country, Dimbula is characterised by its rugged terrain, rolling hills, and lush greenery.
  
  
• The region enjoys clement days, with temperatures ranging from mild to chilly throughout the year.
  
  
• Dimbula is renowned for its tea plantations, which cover vast swathes of land and produce high-quality Ceylon tea.
  
  
• Visitors to Dimbula can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including mountains enveloped in mist, waterfalls flowing gracefully, and charmingly scenic valleys.
  
  

Kandy

 

The Kandy region is famed for its teas with a rich, robust character and a hint of spice, exuding warmth and depth.

• Kandy is a city located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka.
  
  
• Situated in the island's heart, Kandy is nestled amidst lush hills and tropical vegetation.
  
  
• The city experiences a tropical rainforest climate with warm temperatures throughout the year and occasional rainfall.
  
  
• Picturesque landscapes, including lush forests, tranquil lakes, and verdant tea plantations surround the city.
  
  
• Kandy hosts the annual Esala Perahera, a vibrant cultural festival featuring traditional dances, music, and a grand procession of beautifully robed elephants.

 

Uda Pussellawa

 

 

Uda Pussellawa produces teas with a bright, coppery infusion and a lively, refreshing taste, giving it an invigorating character and a unique flavour profile.

 

• Uda Pussellawa is a region located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka.
  
  
• Positioned in the hill country, Uda Pussellawa is characterised by its mountainous terrain and lush greenery.
  
  
• The region experiences a cool and temperate climate, ideal for tea cultivation, with moderate temperatures year-round.
  
  
• Uda Pussellawa is renowned for its extensive tea estates, which produce high-quality Ceylon tea known for its flavour and aroma.
  
  
• Travellers to Uda Pussellawa can enjoy stunning views of rolling hills, mist-covered mountains, and verdant valleys.

 

Ruhuna

 

Ruhuna is known for its rich teas with a distinctive malty flavour profile. It showcases taste profiles that are bold and robust, yet remarkably smooth on the palate.

 

• Ruhuna is a historical region located in the Southern part of Sri Lanka.
  
  
• In the Southern coastal belt, Ruhuna boasts diverse landscapes including pristine beaches, dense forests, and wildlife reserves.
  
  
• The region experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year, making it a popular destination for beachgoers.
  
  
• Ruhuna has its share of lush tea estates. These plantations, though smaller in scale compared to other areas, still produce high-quality tea leaves.
  
  
• Ruhuna's scenic beauty is characterised by its diverse landscapes. The contrast between the golden sands of the coastline and the lush greenery of the inland areas creates a stunning backdrop for travellers.
  
  

Sabaragamuwa

Sabaragamuwa teas, influenced by the region's biodiversity and terroir, are favoured for their smoothness and captivating nuances. 

• Sabaragamuwa is a province located in the Southwestern part of Sri Lanka.
  
  
• Situated in the island's interior, Sabaragamuwa is characterised by its diverse terrain, including mountains, valleys, and rivers.
  
  
• The province experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, making it ideal for agriculture.
  
  
• The region boasts a rich cultural heritage, with ancient temples, historic sites, and traditional villages reflecting its history and traditions.
  
  
• Sabaragamuwa is an agricultural hub, with crops such as tea, rubber, and spices cultivated in its fertile lands.
  
  

At Basilur Tea, we pride ourselves on quality and craftsmanship, meticulously handpicking and processing each leaf to preserve its natural flavours. With an extensive selection sourced from Sri Lanka's finest regions, we invite tea enthusiasts to explore Ceylon tea. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or new to tea, we cater to all tastes. Join us in celebrating Ceylon tea's rich heritage and elegance, promising to elevate your tea-drinking experience one sip at a time.