A ‘Coffee Heritage Trail’ showcasing the island’s history in growing the bean was launched in partnership with Tree of Life Nature resort in the island’s central hills city of Kandy, Australia’s Market Development Facility said.
“This coffee tour has the potential to diversify Sri Lanka’s offerings and position our coffee in global markets,” Tree of Life Founder and Managing Director Shelton Thenuwara said.
The 1.5 kilometre trail will immerse tourists in the history of ceylon coffee, from cultivation to brewing.
“Sri Lanka’s coffee story is one of resilience and revival, and Australia is proud to be part of this journey,” Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Paul Stephens said.
“Through MDF we have supported the re-emergence of specialty coffee, helping it gain both local and international recognition. We remain committed to showcasing Sri Lanka’s unique coffee to the world and ensuring its well-deserved place on the global coffee map.”
Ceylon coffee was a commercial crop since its inception in the 1790s, but the sector shrunk due to leaf rust in 1868 which decimated plantations across the country, before its recovery in the late 1990s.
The coffee trail features the bean to cup journey, from coffee nursery to a guided coffee tasting session led by the inhouse barista.
Visitors will be able to hike through the plantation, learn about seed selection, planting, processing and roasting in traditional and modern methods.
Tree of Life Nature resort offers an opportunity to plant participants’ very own coffee tree and receive regular updates on the growth of the tree, creating a long lasting relationship with the continuous growth of the coffee industry.
The project aim is to create opportunities, boost tourism, facilitate the discovery of local flavors, tradition and culture and increase the export potential of the homegrown coffee in the world market.
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