Sri Lanka’s Tea Cultural Landscape: A Heritage Journey Toward UNESCO Recognition
Sri Lanka proudly takes the first step toward recognizing its Tea Cultural Landscape—a living heritage that has shaped the heart and economy of the nation for over 150 years—by placing it on the UNESCO Tentative List. This milestone marks global recognition of the region’s cultural and ecological significance.
A Collaborative Legacy
This initiative is led by the Ministry of Buddhism, Religious & Cultural Affairs, in partnership with the Central Cultural Fund and Sabaragamuwa University. A dedicated website, launched by Minister Hiniduma Sunil Senavi, serves as a hub for information about this nomination process.
The proposal—an eloquent testament to tea’s cultural, economic, and social importance—is being officially submitted to the UNESCO Institute. The ceremonial handover took place at a formal event at the Ministry Auditorium.
Tea: More Than a Crop
- The first commercial plantations in the Nuwara Eliya region began around 1847, catalyzing a tea culture that thrives to this day
- Nuwara Eliya’s cool high-altitude climate imparts a unique character to its tea—delicately fragrant, with a pale golden infusion and refined flavor profile
- Today, the region remains one of Sri Lanka’s prime tea-producing hubs, contributing significantly to both community livelihoods and the nation’s global reputation
Tea Tourism: Culture Sustained
Tea estates like Pedro Tea Estate play dual roles—as producers and as cultural tourism destinations—offering immersive experiences that empower local communities while preserving traditions FARU Journal. Tours of factories, tasting sessions, and narrated histories allow visitors to engage deeply with the region’s heritage
The First International Conference
To elevate this heritage globally, Sri Lanka will host the First International Conference on Tea Cultural Landscape in Nuwara Eliya, from 15–17 November. Scholars, heritage professionals, tea industry leaders, and governmental representatives—including Dr. Nilan Kure, Prof. S. M. Aslam, and Prof. Atula Ganapala—will convene to consolidate support and vision for UNESCO inscription.
Why This Matters
- Living Heritage: The tea landscape is not just scenic; it is a vibrant testament to centuries of human endeavor, colonial history, agronomy, and social resilience.
- Cultural Identity: Tea is woven into Sri Lanka’s identity—from the misty plantations to global tea cups.
- Sustainable Development: Spotlighting tea culture promotes eco-conscious tourism, conservation, and rural livelihoods.
- Global Recognition: Inclusion in UNESCO’s Tentative List is a strategic step toward full World Heritage status.
