Excursion A visit to handunugoda tour at Galle

Handunugoda Tea Plantation

A 45 minute drive from the pier will take you to Handunugoda which is a unique tea estate. Set on 200 acres of land the estate also grows rubber, cinnamon, pepper and coconut. It is their tea though for which they are best known. Unlike other tea plantations, Handunugoda produces small quantities of special teas only. The emphasis is on the tea's health properties and on quality. No pesticides or insecticides are used.

Their flagship tea, the Virgin White Tea is world famous and among various awards have won the award for one of the most innovative teas in the world. The tea is completely untouched by hand and follows an ancient Chinese ritual where the choicest of teas were offered as a tribute to the Emperor. You will have an opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge on how tea is processed - beginning with the plucking from the tea bushes, to the grading of the finished product - as you tour a tea plantation and factory. For guests who would like to purchase some tea, a sales point is available within the complex.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Tea and Rubber Plantation

Note

Please note: This tour involves a minimal to moderate amount of walking with 15 steps to negotiate at the sites and a few to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe and non-slip walking shoes, and bring sun protection from the ship. Infrastructure in Galle is basic, and local conditions may be challenging: coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other excursions therefore, we urge flexibility and understanding as we visit unique and somewhat remote destinations. The cost of providing a tour programme in this area is proportionately more expensive than in neighbouring regions as vehicles and guides are brought in from Colombo. This may be reflected in the prices of the tours and we thank you for your understanding. Some sites may be crowded, and depending on traffic and parking conditions, it may be necessary to cross busy streets. The tour sequence may vary.