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The Cinnamon Peeler

The story of Ceylon cinnamon is as legendary to Sri Lanka as its tea. It has a profound connection to the history of the land and deep colonial roots. To discover what makes cinnamon an integral part of the culture and heritage, visit a cinnamon plantation in close proximity to Galle.

During your visit to a cinnamon estate in the southern province, a local cinnamon planter will welcome you with a cinnamon-infused drink and proceed to escort you around the plantation describing the various uses of cinnamon and its healing properties. You can observe first-hand, how cinnamon is extracted painstakingly using local techniques. In the peeling and oil extraction shed at the top of the climb, you will find that the peelers are mostly women. But there are whole families involved in bringing the cinnamon bark from nearby farms and estates and preparing the peels for extraction. Sit down among the peelers and learn the trade, one that precedes many centuries. Listen to the colonial origins, how the cinnamon industry has changed over the years and how it benefits the local community today. Also, on the cards is a 20-minute tea tasting session, to experience the flavours for yourself.

Highlights

  • Learn about the evolution of cinnamon in Sri Lanka from colonisation to today.
  • Watch the cinnamon peelers at work, converting the bark into precious oil, and try it out for yourself.
  • Explore the southern hills, ideal for growing the famed Ceylon Cinnamon.
  • Taste a cup of cinnamon-infused tea.

Includes

  • A hosted experience with a planter who personally takes you around the plantation and giving you an in-depth look into the story of cinnamon. Refreshments in the form of cinnamon tea tasting, a welcome drink, and a Tuk-Tuk can be arranged to skip the climb, if requested in advance.

Kid Friendly

  • Yes, it is outdoors and active but more suitable for children above the age of 9 (small children may find it difficult to follow).

Difficulty & Accessibility

  • Easy – But there is a hill that you need to climb.
  • For travellers with limited mobility or wheelchair requirement, a Tuk-Tuk can be arranged to take you to the top.

Timings:

  • Approximately 1 hour; 9.30 am or 3 pm. a private tour can be arranged around 12.30 pm which includes a light lunch at a small extra cost.

Things to Keep in Mind:

  • Wear Something comfortable and light with your favourite pair of sunnies and a sunhat. Sunscreen is always a good idea!
Any of our experiences can be included in your travel itinerary when planning your trip with our travel specialists as we help you plan the best way to include Sri Lankas destinations and experiences into your trip.
To add this or any other experience to your itinerary please get in touch with our travel specialists.