Pekoe Ecotourism at Kolapathana Estate: A Gateway to Sri Lanka’s Tea Heritage
Nestled in Sri Lanka’s picturesque central highlands, Kolapathana Estate is more than just a tea plantation. It represents the harmonious blend of natural beauty, history, and community-driven sustainability. Established in 1870 by British colonists, the estate quickly became a cornerstone of Ceylon’s burgeoning tea industry. These early efforts were powered by a diverse workforce brought from South India, whose descendants continue to enrich the region’s cultural fabric.
If you are a hiking enthusiast, you can enjoy a first-of-its-kind, top-of-the-bucket-list trek here, and as a bonus, have a sustainable travel experience as well.
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| Kolapathana Estate sits pretty in Sri Lanka’s picturesque central highlands |
Exploring the Estate
We visited this beautiful estate to witness the scenic beauty and rich heritage of Kolapathana Estate and learn more about these tea plantations.
Kolapathana's location amidst Sri Lanka’s hill country offers a breathtaking backdrop of rolling hills carpeted with emerald green tea bushes surrounded by the Gongalla mountains, and mist-covered valleys.
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| Going up the tea estate in a Tuk Tuk - an experience to remember |
Our journey began with a tuk-tuk ride—a quintessential Sri Lankan experience. As we climbed higher into the hills, the air grew cooler and fresher, a welcome escape from the heat of the lowlands. The sight of the Gongalla Mountains looming in the distance added to the scenic beauty of the area. These mountains, often shrouded in mist, seemed almost mythical, their peaks blending into the clouds.
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| Our friendly tuk-tuk driver was also our local guide |
Our cheerful driver and local guide Sasi Kumar took us all the way to the top in his tuk-tuk and pointed out landmarks along the way, sharing stories about the estate and the nearby villages. As we went up the winding path to the top of the estate, the roads were lined with vibrant wildflowers, and we were surrounded by tea plantations from every angle. We could see the workers meticulously plucking tea leaves as we passed by. By the time we reached the top of the estate, I already felt a sense of connection to the place, thanks to the natural beauty and the warmth of its people.
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| The estate is an amazing destination for nature lovers |
Once we reached the top of the estate, we went for a short hike on the forest trail to reach a viewpoint for the most incredible bird's eye view of rolling tea gardens and distant mountains. Our guide shared stories about the trail’s history, explaining how it connects tea plantations, villages, and landmarks like Horton Plains National Park. The biodiversity here is astonishing, with colourful butterflies, rare birds like the Sri Lankan magpie, and endemic flora thriving in harmony. These elements make it a perfect destination for birdwatching, photography, and nature walks.
Our trip to the Kolapathana Estate wasn't just for its scenic beauty; it was also a cultural journey as we interacted with local communities and experienced the day-to-day life of the highlands.
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| The incredible bird's eye view from the top of the estate |
A Dive into Sustainability
After exploring the beauty of the tea estate, we visited a farm and homestay within the estate which were a testament to the power of sustainable living. The owner, a passionate farmer and advocate for eco-friendly practices, welcomed us warmly and took us on a tour of his property.
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| We visited a farm and homestay and the owner took us on a tour of his property |
He had an astounding variety of crops growing on his farm — coffee, passionfruit, chillies, papaya, tomatoes and an array of leafy greens thrived alongside spices like cinnamon and pepper. He explained how organic composting, crop rotation, and natural pest control methods helped maintain soil health without relying on harmful chemicals.
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| The kind owner made us try many delicious fruits that are growing in his estate |
Sampling fruits straight from the orchard was a revelation. The flavours were vibrant and pure, in stark contrast to store-bought produce. Fruits like wood apples and rose apples were entirely new to me, their unique tastes adding an adventurous element to the experience.
At the heart of Kolapathana’s charm is its commitment to ecotourism. The farm we visited showcased sustainable agricultural practices, including organic composting and natural pest control. Visitors can engage with local farmers, sample fresh produce, and even participate in farming activities to learn about these eco-friendly methods.
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| This trip was so enriching and I learned so much about sustainable agricultural practices |
Kolapathana Estate’s efforts extend beyond agriculture. They implement practices like reforestation and water conservation to ensure the long-term health of its environment. These initiatives are essential for preserving the region's delicate ecosystem and ensuring its resources remain abundant for generations to come.
Today, visitors can still see remnants of this colonial past. From vintage machinery used in tea processing to colonial bungalows that dot the estate, these elements paint a vivid picture of Kolapathana Estate’s journey through time. The Tamil community has also left its mark through festivals like Thai Pongal, celebrated with traditional food, music, and rituals.
Embracing Culture and Community
The Tamil community around Kolapathana adds a vibrant cultural layer to the estate. Traditional Tamil cuisine, featuring dishes like dosas, idli, and sambhar, offer a culinary journey worth savouring. Artisans in nearby villages produce handmade crafts, from pottery to intricate woven mats, which make for unique souvenirs. Cultural preservation is a key focus, ensuring that tourism benefits local communities while maintaining their heritage.
The Art of Tea: From Bush to Cup
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| The art of tea - from bush to cup |
Tea production at Kolapathana Estate is a meticulous process, combining traditional techniques with modern innovations. Guided by a seasoned estate worker, you can observe how the pluckers skilfully select the finest tea leaves. Watching the pluckers in action is both humbling and inspiring. These skilled workers, mostly women, move with practiced precision through the tea gardens, selecting the most tender leaves for the perfect tea.
A Scenic Hike Through Kolapathana Estate – From Gongalla to Rawanagoda
Hiking through the Kolapathana Estate was an adventure filled with breathtaking views, fresh mountain air, and a trail that led us deep into nature. Our journey began at the Gongalla Viewpoint, a stunning cliffside spot that overlooks the vast tea estates and rolling hills of Kothmale. From here, the trail to Rawanagoda village begins winding down the mountainside through lush greenery.
We were lucky to have Sasi Kumar as our guide, a well-trained and friendly local who spoke English fluently, thanks to a training programme conducted by an organization supporting the community. His knowledge of the trail and the surrounding landscape made our hike even more enjoyable. He carefully led us along the ridge of the mountain, where we were treated to some of the most incredible views of Sri Lanka’s central highlands.
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| Our guide's knowledge about the trail and surrounding landscapes made our day |
As we walked, the scenic beauty around us was simply mesmerizing. The trail was surrounded by endless tea plantations, dense forest patches, and panoramic mountain views. Along the way, Sasi pointed out some of Sri Lanka’s most famous peaks in the distance. We were thrilled to spot Monaragala Mountain (Peacock Hills), The Great Western Mountain, and even the majestic Pidurutalagala, the tallest mountain in Sri Lanka. Far beyond, the mist-covered Horton Plains Mountains added to the beauty of the landscape.
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| The scenic beauty of this area is mesmerizing - I could sit here all day |
The trail itself was well-laid and easy to follow, but it did have some steep sections that required careful navigation. Sasi made sure we took our time, guiding us safely through the more challenging parts. The cool breeze, the sound of birds chirping, and the distant sight of tea pluckers at work created an atmosphere that felt like something out of a storybook.
Reaching Rawanagoda village at the foot of the cliff was a rewarding experience. The small village, hidden amidst the mountains, gave us a glimpse into the simple yet beautiful lifestyle of the locals. The journey was more than just a hike; it was an opportunity to connect with nature, learn from the community, and appreciate the untouched beauty of Sri Lanka’s highlands.
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, this trail from Gongalla to Rawanagoda is a must-visit. Just remember to take your time, soak in the views, and enjoy the magic of Kolapathana Estate.
Waterfalls and Scenic Stops
We stopped at this beautiful waterfall on our way
We stopped at the lowermost tier, where an ancient arch bridge provided the perfect vantage point. The bridge, built during colonial times, is an architectural marvel, its sturdy stone structure standing strong against the test of time.
The sound of cascading water, combined with the chirping of birds, created a serene ambiance. This picturesque spot is a favourite among travellers for photography, and we saw a lot of people stopping their vehicles to get some photographs just like we did.
Best time To Visit
January to April and July and August are ideal as they have the perfect amount of sunshine, and it doesn't rain much during these months.
Try to avoid May, June, and the period from September to December as they are generally considered rainy. The rainy seasons also have a lot of leeches which come out in addition to the downpour so it's best to avoid this time. In case you do happen to visit around the rains, make sure to wear leech socks.
Practical Tips for Visiting Kolapathana
For those planning a trip, here are some tips to ensure a memorable experience:
1. Travel: The estate is accessible from major towns like Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, Hatton or Ella. Hiring a local guide is recommended to navigate the region’s winding roads.
2. Accommodation: There are many accommodation options varying from chic hotels to cozy homestays to luxurious plantation bungalows. For a truly immersive experience, choose a homestay where you can interact with local families. There are a considerable number of options from which you can choose one which suits your budget and style.
3. Activities: Don’t miss tea-tasting sessions, farm tours, hiking and camping. It is also great for bird and butterfly watching. Photography enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to capture stunning landscapes of the rolling hills amidst the tea gardens and the Kadiyanlena waterfall on the way and small cascades along the way to Kolapathana estate. The estate also offers educational experiences, allowing visitors to participate in farming activities, explore eco-friendly tea processing methods, and learn about biodiversity preservation.
4. Amenities: Campsite with drinking water, washroom facilities and firewood, food supply on request. Ancillary services such as camping gear including tents, BBQ grills, cooking utensils for rental, water, washroom and firewood for campers, guiding services are also available.
A Sustainable Future for Kolapathana
As eco-tourism grows globally, Kolapathana remains a shining example of how history, nature, and community can coexist to bring a transformative travel experience. Whether trekking through tea gardens, sipping freshly brewed tea, or learning about sustainable practices, this estate promises an unforgettable journey that rejuvenates both the traveller and the land. Those who love a cuppa, will experience first hand the joys and hardships of the ones who actually make the tea, thus appreciating the labours of producing the famed Ceylon Tea.
Kolapathana is more than just a travel destination; it’s a model of sustainability. By integrating eco-friendly practices into its operations, the estate ensures that its resources remain abundant for future generations.
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| Kolapathana is a shining example of how history, nature, and community combine |
This initiative doesn’t stop at promoting tourism; it also prioritizes empowering local communities. By training and engaging the local community as service providers, the programme ensures that the economic benefits from increased tourism flow directly to those who need them most. For visitors, it provides a more meaningful and immersive experience rooted in sustainability and mutual respect.
Traveling to Kolapathana Estate was not just about visiting a tea plantation; it was an opportunity to connect deeply with the land, history, and people of Sri Lanka. From its lush tea gardens to the vibrant Tamil culture, every moment we spent there felt like a celebration of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage and commitment to eco-friendly practices. Whether you're an avid trekker, a tea enthusiast, or simply someone looking to connect with nature, Kolapathana promises an experience that rejuvenates the mind, body, and soul.
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Disclaimer: Sri Lanka Less Travelled is a community-driven tourism initiative implemented by Chrysalis, aimed at developing five sustainable, community-based biodiversity tourism signature sites in the districts of Nuwara Eliya and Matale from 2022 to 2025. This article was produced under the Sri Lanka Less Travelled project with the financial support of the European Union. The content is the sole responsibility of Chrysalis and does not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.