Sri Lanka Tea Museum (Hanthana)

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Overview

The Sri Lanka Tea Museum is situated in the Hantana Tea Factory, developed in 1925. This museum is placed around 3km south of the city of Kandy. This is an appreciation of the pioneers of the Ceylon tea industry, including James Taylor and Thomas Lipton. This four-story museum holds the history of tea production in the country; in the background of the beautiful Hantana mountain range.

What can we do?

  • See the beautifully preserved 100-year-old machinery in our Explore Ancient Machinery section, which was designed to process tea withering, rolling, and drying, now kept at our ground- and first-floor levels.
  • Learn the History: Go to the library and auditorium on second floor to study exhibits on both James Taylor and Ceylon Tea history.
  • Tea Tasting: On top, there is a cafĂ© where one can have a cup of tea for free. You can drink your favorite hot beverage while enjoying a 360-degree view of Kandy town and surrounding mountain ranges.
  • View through Telescope: You can also view the Knuckles Range and Matale hills by using the telescope installed on the fourth floor.
  • Buy Premium Tea: There is a shop where you can buy high-quality tea known as pure Ceylon tea.

Which season is best for travel?

  • Opening Hours: Unlike other sites, the museum is usually open from 8:30 AM to 3:45 PM (Tuesday to Saturday) and 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM (Sunday). It is often closed on Mondays and Poya days, so check before you go.

  • Best Time: Visiting in the morning around 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM is ideal to beat the afternoon haze and enjoy a clear view of the Knuckles Mountain Range from the top floor telescope.

How long to spend for a visit?

Duration: A complete tour takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.

  • This includes viewing the exhibits, watching the documentary, and enjoying a cup of fresh tea at the cafe.

How can we arrive?

  • Location: It is located in Hanthana, just 3-4 km from Kandy town.

  • Transport: The road is winding and uphill. The best way is to hire a tuk-tuk from Kandy (approx. 20 minutes). If you are driving, there is parking available.