Sri Lanka s Hatton among National Geographic s top gourmet stays to book in 2026

National Geographic Traveller (UK) has recognized Sri Lanka's rich tea heritage as part of a global showcase on food-centered travel experiences for 2026. The article emphasizes how local food traditions enhance travel and spotlights tea tourism in Hatton, Sri Lanka, as a prime example. It notes that food and drink are increasingly important for travelers exploring a place's history, culture, and identity. Ceylon Tea Trails, situated on the 550-acre Dunkeld Tea Estate in Hatton, is highlighted as a unique way to immerse oneself in Sri Lanka’s famous tea industry. The article mentions that tea was brought to Sri Lanka by the British in 1867, and the nation is now the fourth-largest producer in the world, celebrated for its bright, citrusy black teas grown in misty highland estates. Ceylon Tea Trails features five restored colonial bungalows that allow visitors to connect deeply with Sri Lanka’s tea history. Guests can visit the century-old Dunkeld Tea Factory for free, where they can see the tea-making process up close. A 90-minute private tour is conducted by Bernard, the estate’s resident tea planter, who shares detailed knowledge about Sri Lanka’s tea journey from its colonial roots to contemporary practices. Tour participants learn about each step of tea production, including withering, rolling, drying, and curing, and how these steps affect flavor and quality. The experience ends with a tea tasting while enjoying views of the surrounding plantations. The article also mentions nearby attractions, such as the Castlereagh Reservoir, which is popular for kayaking, and Adam’s Peak, a significant hiking and pilgrimage site located about an hour away.