Spice Gardens Matale: A Sensory Tour

For centuries, Sri Lanka was a vital hub on the global spice route, drawing traders from Arabia, Europe, and China. Today, the climate of the central hills remains perfect for growing these aromatic treasures. Taking a walking tour through the spice gardens in Matale is a journey for the senses.

The True Ceylon Cinnamon

Sri Lanka is the birthplace of 'True Cinnamon' (Cinnamomum verum), which is superior in flavor and health benefits to the cheaper Cassia variety found in most Western supermarkets.

• In Matale, you can watch the highly skilled process of cinnamon peelers scraping the inner bark of the tree and rolling it into delicate quills.
• You will also see cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, vanilla, and pepper growing in their natural state.

Ayurvedic Knowledge

The spice garden tours dive heavily into Ayurveda, the ancient holistic medical system of the subcontinent. Guides will explain how different spices and herbs are processed into oils, balms, and teas to treat everything from sunburn to joint pain.

The Perfect Pit Stop

Matale is strategically located halfway between Kandy and the Cultural Triangle (Dambulla/Sigiriya). It is the perfect place to stretch your legs for an hour. Ask your private intercity taxi driver to make a short stop at a reputable garden before continuing your journey.