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Damro Labookellie Tea Estate
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Damro Labookellie Tea Estate, formerly known as Mackwoods Labookellie, is one of the oldest and most prestigious tea plantations in Sri Lanka. Located in the Nuwara Eliya district at an elevation of over 1,500 meters, the estate has been producing high-quality Ceylon tea for over 180 years. The plantation covers more than 1,000 acres of rolling hills, creating a spectacular landscape of neatly pruned tea bushes. The factory is a major landmark on the road between Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, offering comprehensive tours that showcase the entire tea-making process, from withering and rolling to fermentation and drying. Labookellie is particularly famous for its high-grown black tea, which is prized for its bright color and robust flavor. The estate also features a modern tea lounge and visitor center where guests can sample various grades of tea while enjoying panoramic views of the valley.
- Location: Sri Lanka
- Top sights: 'Soda Bottle' Curve · Great Western Peak · Galge Purana Dewalaya
- Nearby: Sembuwatta Lake (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 24 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 22 | 22 |
| Rain mm | 109 | 86 | 105 | 175 | 164 | 101 | 82 | 92 | 129 | 234 | 274 | 212 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Damro Labookellie Tea Estate is one of the oldest and largest tea plantations in Sri Lanka. It gives scenic views and guided tours, playing a key role in highland tea cultivation, especially for famous Ceylon tea.
Visiting
The estate is typically open to visitors, with guided tours through the tea fields and factory. Opening hours may vary, so advance inquiry is recommended. Entry is often charged.
Where to view it
Fantastic views are offered by the tea terraces themselves, stretching over green hills. The viewpoint near the plantation office gives a wide panorama over the misty mountains and the neat tea rows.
Local products
In the attached shop, visitors can buy freshly processed tea in various varieties directly. Local specialties such as honey and spices from the region are also offered.
Active season
The main harvest season for tea is from May to September when leaf quality is best. The plantation operates year-round, however, with smaller harvests in other months.
Nearby
A visit can be combined with exploring the town of Nuwara Eliya, known as 'Little England'. Also nearby is Horton Plains National Park with its hiking trails and the World's End escarpment.
Geography
Facts
- Founded in the year 1841
- Over 1,000 acres of plantation
- Elevation of over 1,500 meters
- Produces high-quality black tea
- Located on Kandy-Nuwara Eliya road
- Formerly known as Mackwoods
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Damro Labookellie Tea Estate (8)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How much is the entrance fee to Damro Labookellie estate?
Factory tours are often free or very low cost, and a tea tasting is usually included in the price.
Is there a restaurant on site?
Yes, there is a large cafe and restaurant famous for its tea cakes and panoramic views.
Can we see tea pluckers at work?
Yes, along the main road and in the fields around the factory, you can often see pluckers at work in the morning.
At what altitude is the Damro estate located?
It is situated at about 1,500 meters above sea level, providing convenient conditions for high-quality highland tea.
What products can be purchased in the shop?
A wide selection of black teas, green teas, and special gift sets directly from the production are available.
Damro Labookellie Tea Estate: where is it located?
Damro Labookellie Tea Estate is located in Sri Lanka.
Damro Labookellie Tea Estate: what is there to see?
Highlights include 'Soda Bottle' Curve, Great Western Peak, Galge Purana Dewalaya.
Damro Labookellie Tea Estate: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Jul.
Damro Labookellie Tea Estate: why is it worth visiting?
Damro Labookellie Tea Estate, formerly known as Mackwoods Labookellie, is one of the oldest and most prestigious tea plantations in Sri Lanka.
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