The Origins of Tea in Sri Lanka

Visitors to Sri Lanka come for surf, tropical luxury and the heart and soul of relaxation. The island is home to Ayurvedic medicine and plant-based wellness that is centuries old. It developed the nickname the Spice Isle due to the exotic herbs and spices the jungles produce. Dutch Colonial masters established a coffee industry in the 18th and 19th centuries. A blight destroyed plantations and opened the door for the tea industry from the late 1860s. The Central Highlands were soon filled with tea plantations that are now protected through their World Heritage Listing.

No guest to Sri Lanka should ever miss the breathtaking views, lifestyle and locations of former tea plantation owner’s homes. These period homes provide bespoke hospitality of the highest standard to small groups of travellers. Steep hillsides, cascading waterfalls and pockets of jungle combine to provide days filled with adventure, history and discovery.

Genuine Dutch Colonial Style in the Tea Plantations

Somaland Estate Bungalow is a colonial plantation bungalow nestled in tea plantations on the Kandy-Nuwara Eliya road. A southern businessman built the bungalow in the late 1890s. The bungalow reveals hints of southern architectural influence with wood lattice panels and a central courtyard. It is absolutely one of a kind.

A former Dutch diplomat recently acquired the bungalow which now showcases furniture collected during a life of service to Asian countries. Pieces from different parts of the world including India, China and the Philippines tastefully deck each room.

The owner stays in a separate annex building at the property three months of the year. Guests at Somaland Estate Bungalow will relive history in his stories. Every painting and piece of furniture has a story. This makes Somaland Estate Bungalow, not just another property, but a place where guests can walk through history.

Authentically Sri Lankan with tasteful interiors it is easy to feel the love of each owner over the century. It is an old, well-kept piece of Sri Lanka’s rich history and tradition; filled peace and the love of its owners. Spacious but intimate rooms deceive you from the outside; as it is a lot bigger than it looks.

Many of the original features are still present, including the detailed woodwork and the traditional Sri Lankan kitchen that is still in use today. Even the garden is full of surprises. But you will have to wait til you arrive to experience them.

The Hill Country Bungalow Design