Dambatenne Tea Factory: Walk in the Footsteps of the Legendary Lipton

Where the world-famous Lipton tea legacy began in 1890

A Living Piece of Tea History

Nestled in the misty hills above Haputale, the Dambatenne Tea Factory is where Scottish entrepreneur Sir Thomas Lipton first perfected the blend that would become a global phenomenon. Established in 1890, this sprawling 20,000 sq ft factory still operates much as it did over a century ago, offering visitors an authentic look at Ceylon tea production from leaf to cup.

By the Numbers

• Workforce: 1,600 employees
• Estate Size: 3,500 acres of tea
• Altitude: 1,250-1,600 meters (producing premium high-grown tea)
• Daily Output: ~25,000 kg of fresh tea leaves

What Makes This Factory Special?

1. The Lipton Legacy

• Sir Thomas personally oversaw operations here from 1890-1910
• Developed his famous "Direct from Tea Garden to Teapot" supply chain
• Original 19th-century machinery still in use alongside modern equipment

2. The Factory Tour Experience

See the Process:

• Withering: Where leaves lose 70% moisture
• Rolling: Releases natural juices for fermentation
• Oxidation: The magical step that creates flavor
• Firing: Stops oxidation at perfect moment

Tasting Session:

• Sample golden orange pekoe straight from the source
• Learn to identify high-grown vs. low-grown tea characteristics

3. Lipton's Seat Viewpoint

Location: 7km from factory

• Where Sir Thomas would survey his empire
• 360° views over endless tea plantations
• Sunrise visits recommended (opens at 5:30 AM)

Visitor Information

Tour Hours:

• Monday-Saturday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
• Sunday: Closed

Entrance Fee:

• Rs. 500 (includes guided tour & tasting)

Pro Tips:

• Wear closed-toe shoes (factory floors can be slippery)
• Bring a light jacket (cool at this altitude)
• Combine with visit to Adisham Monastery (30 min away)

How to Get There

Location: 10km northeast of Haputale (Badulla Road)

Transport Options:

• Tuk-tuk from Haputale: ~Rs. 1,200 round trip
• Private Car: 3.5hrs from Colombo
• Scenic Train: Get off at Haputale Station

Beyond the Factory

Stay in Tea Country

Lipton's Seat Bungalow:

• Original planter's residence available for overnight stays
• Book through Sri Lanka Tea Board

Local Flavors

Must-Try Nearby:

• "High Tea" at Thotalagala Estate
• Fresh strawberries & cream at roadside stalls

Book a Tea Lover's Tour

Let Sri Lanka Tour Help arrange your perfect tea country experience:

• Private factory tours
• Visits to Lipton's Seat
• Overnight stays in colonial bungalows

Plan your visit: https://srilankatourhelp.org