Ceylon Tea Trails

HOTEL SUMMARY

Where colonial heritage meets contemporary luxury, Ceylon Tea Trails Dunkeld Estate transforms five meticulously restored tea planters' bungalows into Sri Lanka's most distinctive luxury accommodation, immersing guests in the authentic culture of Ceylon tea within a working 220-hectare plantation in the UNESCO-listed Central Highlands.

Founded by MJF Tea Gardens under the prestigious Dilmah Tea brand, Ceylon Tea Trails preserves the legacy of British colonial tea planters while championing ethical production and environmental conservation. Each historic bungalow—Dunkeld, Owners Cottage, Norwood, Tientsin, Summerville, and Castlereagh—has been carefully restored to maintain its colonial charm, earning recognition as the world's first luxury tea estate resort. The property's commitment to sustainability through the MJF Charitable Foundation and Dilmah Conservation elevates it beyond typical luxury hospitality into meaningful cultural preservation.

The five bungalows offer individually styled suites that seamlessly blend period authenticity with modern comfort. Spacious bedrooms feature antique furnishings and high ceilings characteristic of British colonial architecture, while en-suite bathrooms provide contemporary amenities. Private verandas frame panoramic views of emerald tea plantations and rolling hills, with select suites offering fireplaces and direct garden access. Dunkeld Bungalow's infinity pool and summer garden pavilions create intimate spaces for relaxation, while the restored interiors transport guests to the golden age of Ceylon tea cultivation.

Dining experiences celebrate authentic Sri Lankan cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients, served in intimate settings within the main dining rooms or on plantation-view verandas. The resident Tea Planter leads exclusive tea tasting sessions, sharing insights into the estate's annual production of 350,000 kilograms of high-grown Ceylon tea. Guided tours of the Dunkeld Tea Factory provide immersive education in tea production, while curated excursions explore the surrounding Central Highlands, including nearby Kandy and the colonial hill station of Nuwara Eliya. Wellness treatments, library lounges with period décor, and personalized nature walks complete the comprehensive luxury experience.

Ceylon Tea Trails Dunkeld Estate offers discerning travelers an unparalleled opportunity to experience authentic tea heritage within restored colonial luxury. Book the signature Dunkeld Bungalow for the ultimate plantation experience, particularly during the cooler months from December to March when the highland climate is most pleasant. Through En Primeur Club, guests enjoy exclusive access to private tea master sessions and complimentary estate tours, ensuring an unforgettable immersion into Sri Lanka's most treasured cultural legacy.