You will pass through historic tea plantations and scenic mountain terrain before reaching Ceylon Tea Trails, with its historic colonial-era bungalows surrounded by working tea plantations overlooking Castlereagh Lake. This innovative “slow travel” experience is aimed at those seeking outdoor adventure, mindful travel, and a connection with local communities. Here you can discover scenic hiking trails through tea country. It provides insight into both the Pekoe Trail experience and Sri Lanka’s tea heritage, while featuring a carefully curated boutique with locally crafted and tea-inspired products. In addition to enjoying exquisite food & service, you can explore the Bogawantalawa Valley by bicycle, a cruise on the lake, or a soothing aroma bath in the spa area.
This program is a source of inspiration — each trip is unique and tailored to you.
Ceylon Tea Trails is the world’s first tea bungalow resort, perched at an altitude of 1,250 meters with panoramic views of Sri Lanka’s Ceylon tea region, bordering the UNESCO World Heritage Central Highlands. Here, you will feel the wings of history in your bungalow surrounded by peerless gardens and lake views.
Nestled in a forested valley near the water, this century-old bungalow offers unparalleled views of the spectacular Castlereagh Lake.
A bathroom with a view!
The dining experience here is a journey into decadence. Daily menus are crafted just for you and served at your convenience across sprawling lawns, sun-drenched patios, or beside Castlereagh Lake.
This is an ideal setting for hiking and biking against a breathtaking backdrop of mountains, lakes, winding roads, and waterfalls. Or explore the lush tea fields and visit an old turn-of-the-century factory for an education in the art of making Ceylon Tea.
Kayaking on the lake is an incredibly soothing experience.
If you are traveling with children, let them be guided by an expert planter to explore the unique climates and elevations that influence tea planting and gain hands-on knowledge of one of Sri Lanka’s most cherished traditions. It is an engaging and educational adventure that brings them closer to nature and the rich heritage of Ceylon tea.
Airport: Bandaranaike International (CMB)
The tour price includes: Accommodation, shared double room, activities, and meals specified in your customized itinerary. This accommodation is often included in a longer, customized journey.
The tour price does not include: Travel insurance, E-visa (ETA), meals, drinks, and activities not specified in the itinerary. We will gladly help you book flights through our flight partner.
Good to know about Sri Lanka:
Travel etiquette: When visiting a temple, it is customary to remove your shoes and cover your shoulders and knees.
ETA: Travelers to Sri Lanka visiting as tourists or business travelers for up to 30 days can apply for an electronic travel authorization from the Sri Lankan authorities here.
Arrival form: Travelers arriving in Sri Lanka can now complete the arrival form online. A link to the form can be found on the immigration authorities’ websites. The form can be filled out no earlier than three days prior to arrival.
Time zone: GMT + 5.5 hours.
Vaccinations: Visit your local travel clinic
Local currency: Sri Lankan Rupee.
Weather: Sri Lanka has a tropical and warm climate. The summer monsoon from May to October brings the most rainfall to the west, while the east coast receives the most rain from November to January with the winter monsoon. The average temperature ranges from around 16 ºC in the central highlands in winter, where frost can sometimes occur, to 33 ºC in the lowlands during summer. The annual average temperature is between 28 ºC and 31 ºC. The warmest month is May, at the beginning of the rainy season.
Mobile network: Wi-Fi works well.
This product meets our requirements for Ecorating, a product that is good for humans and the environment.
Ceylon Tea Trails was developed by the Fernando family, tea growers from Sri Lanka and founders of Dilmah Ceylon Tea, and has a long history of sustainability. Their aim is to create a truly sustainable tea industry that benefits people, communities, and the planet. 15% of the organization’s profits go to humanity through the work of the MJF Charitable Foundation and Dilmah Conservation. Read the PDF here about the organization’s comprehensive Environment, Social, and Governance policy here
