Going beyond the exotic beaches and the architectural glory, Sri Lanka is also known for its lush-green tea gardens which spread across a vast region. To witness the fine tea leaves closely, the Ceylon tea museum is a must visit place while on a Sri Lankan vacation.
To explore every part of the museum, keep this detailed guide handy and enjoy the luscious taste of the Sri Lankan tea at this heritage place.
About Ceylon Tea Museum
The Ceylon Tea Museum is situated at the former Hantana Tea Factory which was built in 1925, located at the southern side of Kandy, Sri Lanka. Hantana was one of the first areas which successfully opened up the tea cultivation after the failure of the coffee enterprise. The factory that now houses the Museum is a relatively modern building.
Abandoned for more than a decade, it was recently revamped and has a good collection of exhibits on the tea pioneers James Taylor and Thomas Lipton. The Tea Museum is a building which consists of four floors where from ground floor to second floor is the old machineries, library and auditorium. While on the third floor the tea lovers can purchase and taste the flavors of Sri Lankan tea. And on the fourth floor one can enjoy the captivating view of the hills while sipping their favourite tea without paying any penny.
The building is full of original machinery like the iconic “Little Giant Tea Roller” which twists the dried tea leaves into spirals for cutting. There are also archival prints of 19th century industry which also includes the life and works of the tea pioneer James Taylor. The factory is a pleasant three-wheeler ride up from Kandy and is well worth a visit.
Kandy is a mandatory stop on every traveller’s itinerary and the location of the Ceylon Tea Museum at Hantana enhances the attraction of the hill country to the viewers. Also, its at a convenient distance to the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens and Loolecondera estate where tea was first grown commercially in Sri Lanka makes Hantana the perfect location.
Must Read: The Definitive Guide To National Museum Of Colombo In Sri Lanka
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Best Time To Visit Ceylon Tea Museum
The museum is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, Monday being closed. The opening hours are from 8.30 am and remains open up till 4.00 pm. One must enter the museum at least an hour and a half before the closing time in order to get sufficient time for tour and exploration.
Entry Fee And Timings Of Ceylon Tea Museum
Timings: On sundays and public holidays it closes early around 3 pm.
Price for the non-resident Adult: 800 LKR
For the non-resident Children: 400 LKR
How To Reach Ceylon Tea Museum
- Nearest airport to Kandy is the Bandaranaike International Airport. The airport is at a distance of almost 103 km from the heart of Kandy. Public transport is easily available for the commute.
- Traveling to Kandy by train is relatively cheaper, enjoyable and safer. Many trains commute from the capital city of Colombo to Kandy on a daily basis.
- Air-conditioned buses are also available for the commute. You can use public transport for the commute.
Suggested Read: 6 Best Museums In Sri Lanka That’ll Walk You Through The Country’s Rich Historic Past
Where To Stay Near Ceylon Tea Museum
If you are Ceylon Tea Museum and don’t know where to spend the night or where to stay at then here are few suggestions based on the popular choices of the travelers:
1. Bee View Home Stay
The Bee View Homestay is located just 1 kms from the museum, which makes it a perfect place to stay. Settled amidst the finest views in Kandy, Bee View Homestay provides free WiFi and a comfortable stay. Bike hire and car hire are available at this homestay and the area is popular for hiking.
Location: 71/B/1-A, Housing Scheme, , 20000, Sri Lanka.
Contact: +94 77 216 1834
Suggested Read: 8 Best Homestays In Sri Lanka To Relax, Revive, And Rejuvenate At One’s Own Pace
2. Kandyan View Villa
This lavish villa is a self-catering accommodation located just 900 metres from the Ceylon Tea Museum, another great choice to stay at. One can enjoy the mountain and city views from the balcony of their room.
Location: No. 75, Tapodarama Mawatha, Hantana, Kandy, Sri Lanka.
Contact: +94 77 360 2661
Things To Do Near Ceylon Tea Museum
1. International Buddhist Museum: Discover The Buddhist Culture
To get an insight of the Buddhist culture and origin, visit the International Buddhist Museum. Popularly known as Dalada Maligawa Museum, this is the one and only, sole museum in the world that showcases the influence of Buddhism in different parts of Asia.
Distance from Ceylon Tea Museum: 6.1 km
Suggested Read: Top 10 Things To Do In Kandy For Couples That Assure Ultimate Fun In Sri Lanka!
2. Temple of Tooth: Go On A Religious Expedition
Temple of the Tooth which is also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa by the locals, is one of the most famous attractions of the region. The gargantuan structure of the temple makes it an ideal place for meditation. It is located approximately 5,350 feet above sea level. The temple offers a beautiful and serene view of the Udawatta forest behind it.
Distance from Ceylon Tea Museum: 5.3 km
Suggested Read: Sri Lanka In December: 8 Remarkable Experiences You Cannot Miss
3. Kandy Lake: Take A Relaxing Stroll
Once you are done with the sightseeing and traveling to the Museum, spend the evening by taking a stroll around the Kandy Lake. Constructed by the last ruler of the kingdom of Kandy, this man-made lake is worth a visit. One of the best ways to spend some leisure time in Kandy is enjoying a leisurely walk by the lake.
Distance from Ceylon Tea Museum: 7.2 km
Further Read: Kandy Shopping: 10 Best Places In The City That’ll Compel You To Stop And Shop!
Are you excited to witness the undaunted beauty of this island country? If yes, then without much delay, book one of the customized Sri Lanka tour packages with Tips Clear and don’t miss out this museum during your stay in Kandy!
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