A special experience on our trip across the island of Sri Lanka was a visit to one of the many tea plantations. On the journey from Colombo to Kandy, we had the opportunity to visit one of many tea plantations in the country.
First we hiked over the slopes of the plantation and were able to watch the tea pickers at work. The pickers stand up to their chests in the tightly growing plants.
Tea picker at work – Sri Lanka
To demarcate the harvested area, bamboo sticks are placed on the bushes. This way, the women do not lose track of the harvest. The harvested flowers are placed in the basket, which is carried on the back the whole time.
The work is done in the scorching sun and despite the heaviness of the work, the jobs here are very much in demand. Early in the morning, the job seekers wait in front of the small factory building to be assigned.
As picturesque as the plantations with the pickers look to the passer-by from a distance, it is hard and difficult work when you look at the events up close. The plantation is one of the medium-sized farms and still has a considerable area.
On the slope and in front of the blue sky, the workers look like busy bees. The subsequent visit to the tea factory, where the harvest is prepared for export, is interesting. Packed in large wooden boxes, the product usually goes on its long journey to Europe.
