Did You Know this About Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka Has the Oldest Continuously Planted Tea Estate in the World…..

When people think of Sri Lanka, they often picture golden beaches, lush rainforests, and ancient ruins. But tucked away in the misty hills of Kandy lies a treasure that shaped the country’s identity and placed it firmly on the global map — Loolecondera Estate, the world’s oldest continuously planted tea estate.

Established in 1867 by Scottish planter James Taylor, Loolecondera isn’t just the birthplace of Ceylon Tea — it’s the very heartbeat of a global industry that now exports to more than 150 countries. While tea had been introduced to Sri Lanka (then Ceylon) earlier, Taylor perfected the cultivation, processing, and marketing of tea in a way that transformed the island’s economy forever.

The Birth of Ceylon Tea

The story began in the mid-19th century when the island’s once-thriving coffee industry collapsed due to a devastating leaf blight. Faced with economic ruin, planters looked to other crops — and tea emerged as the savior. James Taylor, with a mere 19 acres, experimented with tea cultivation in Loolecondera, carefully refining each stage of production. His dedication led to the first shipment of pure Ceylon Tea being sent to London in 1873.

What started as a small venture in the rolling hills soon became a global sensation. Within a few decades, tea plantations stretched across the central highlands, turning Sri Lanka into one of the largest tea exporters in the world.

Why Loolecondera is Unique

While other estates have evolved, expanded, or even been abandoned, Loolecondera has been producing tea continuously for over 150 years. Its charm lies not only in its history but in the way it has preserved its colonial character — from the original factory buildings to the vintage tea rollers still in use. Walking through the estate feels like stepping back in time, with panoramic views of emerald-green slopes dotted with tea pluckers in their vibrant saris.

More Than Just Tea

A visit to Loolecondera is not just about sipping a perfect cup. It’s a deep dive into history, agriculture, and culture. Here, you can:

• Visit James Taylor’s seat — a stone bench where he would rest and take in the view of his beloved plantation.
• Explore the old factory to see traditional tea-making processes, much of which remain unchanged for over a century.
• Taste single-origin teas right where they are grown, an experience tea connoisseurs consider unparalleled.

And then there’s the scenery — mist drifting through the hills in the early morning, sunlight spilling over the plantations at noon, and the cool, crisp air that carries the faint scent of tea leaves.

A Living Legacy

Today, Loolecondera remains a working tea estate, producing some of the finest Ceylon teas in the world. It stands as a testament to Sri Lanka’s resilience, adaptability, and innovation. Every cup of tea from these hills carries within it a story — of colonial ambition, agricultural genius, and a culture deeply intertwined with the land.

Plan Your Visit

If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, a visit to Loolecondera and other historic estates is an unforgettable experience — combining nature, heritage, and the world’s most loved beverage.

Trips to tea estates are available in our LUXURY TEA & COLONIAL RETREATS package, where you can immerse yourself in the charm of the highlands, stay in elegant colonial bungalows, and taste tea where it was born.