Me and my clients recently had the pleasure of visiting the Kandy Spice Walk and it was an unforgettable experience that exceeded all expectations. This immersive spice tour transported me into the heart of Sri Lanka's vibrant culinary heritage, offering a sensory journey that left me both educated and delighted. This spice garden is Nestled in the lush greenery of the central highlands, And is conveniently located just a short drive from the city of Kandy. The tranquil setting amidst spice gardens and plantations provides the ideal backdrop for an authentic exploration of Sri Lanka's spice culture. Upon arrival, We were warmly welcomed by a knowledgeable and passionate guide who introduced us to the world of spices in Sri Lanka. The tour started with a brief overview of the plantation's history, followed by a guided walk through the spice gardens. Along the way, We had the opportunity to see, touch, and smell an array of aromatic plants and spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, vanilla, cloves, and black pepper. The guides shared fascinating insights into the cultivation, harvesting, and processing of these spices, making the tour both informative and engaging. One of the highlights of the Kandy Spice Walk was the tasting session. We were able to sample a variety of spices and learn how they are used in traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. The flavors and aromas were simply enchanting, and the tasting session provided an immersive and delectable experience that was the perfect culmination of the tour. The tour wasn't just about spices; it also delved into the cultural and historical significance of these spices in Sri Lanka. We gained a deeper understanding of how spices have shaped the country's history and influenced its cuisine. The guides also shared stories and traditions related to spices, enriching my appreciation for the local culture. The staff at Kandy Spice Walk were exceptionally friendly and knowledgeable. Their passion for spices and dedication to educating visitors was evident throughout the tour. They were always ready to answer questions and share their expertise, adding a personal touch to the experience. At the end of the tour, We had the opportunity to visit the gift shop, where a variety of high-quality spices, essential oils, and handmade products were available for purchase. It was the perfect place to pick up some souvenirs and take home a piece of Sri Lanka's rich spice heritage. conclusion, the Kandy Spice Walk offers a unique and enriching experience for anyone interested in spices, culinary traditions, or the cultural history of Sri Lanka. This tour not only provides a sensory adventure but also imparts a deeper understanding of the integral role spices play in the country's identity. I wholeheartedly recommend the Kandy Spice Walk to anyone looking for a memorable and educational experience while in Kandy. It's a journey that will stimulate your senses and leave you with a greater appreciation for the...
Read moreThis place and its ethos sums up our pretty disappointing, scam filled few days in Kandy.
I cannot fathom the necessity of scamming your customers when your initial product is actually decent in itself. We were brought here unexpectedly on a TukTuk tour and were told it’s free. It’s not.
The tour of the herbs and spices is interesting in itself, they don’t need to lie to us about the staff “training to become doctors” though. You can’t obtain such a qualification by knowing only herbs.
We did a very interesting cooking class and ate a good curry. But then you’re moved to an inappropriate massage where in a typically conservative Sri Lanka, women are made to sit in bras alongside men and get a very average massage (not all woman wear bras so I dread to think what happens then?). We’re then told to tip with the workers all watching and waiting. Keep in mind, these are the same workers who help you cook who then massage you…can’t wait to get sick next week.
Finally, you’re ushered to the infamous shop where the “Doctor” is “very fortunately and rarely here”. He walks you through all the same herbal stuff. And it’s here you get a sense of the unnecessary lies. I would have bought more stuff if they were just honest with us, but that’s a rarity in this town. He’s clearly the dodgy kingpin of this operation. Once bought, your guide will bag the items in unbranded bags, then shove them in your backpack so that if you happen to pass other suckers on the way out, they won’t know there is a shop. Our guide also told us about hiding our items from hotel staff as they tend to steal them and replace them with chemicals - what the heck is that about? In other words, our goods are fake but if we go back to them they’ll just say hotel staff must have swapped them out.
As we left, our TukTuk driver appeared to have come from behind the shop, I now expect after getting his commission.
As mentioned, the lying and desperate attempt for money just isn’t worth it as it would be a good trip in itself. But overall, it’s the icing on the cake for tourism in this region. A serious lack of integrity in a town that sees itself higher than the southern...
Read moreA huge scam. Like others, I was brought here by my tuk tuk diver without knowing what to expect. You will be immediately greeted by a 'student' telling you that they're studying to become a doctor, like everyone else in the establishment. She said that I was lucky to visit on a weekday because at weekends, the place is only open to locals (but they will tell you the opposite if you visit at the weekend). They briefly show you around the garden which is ok but alarm bells started ringing when she asked to put a hair removal cream on my arm that apparently removed hair for 7 months. It was pink coloured but had a suspiciously similar smell to Veet...they then do a brief cooking demonstration which is ok but not very hygienic. The worst part starts after that. I was offered a 'treatment' which turned out to be a very mediocre massage. I was asked to take my top off and assured that nobody else would come where I was. Minutes later, they brought a strange man repeating the same sales pitches I was exposed to! They literally give you a list of all the 'medicines' (snake oil) and ask to tick the ones you want to buy. A cream that will instantly make you lose 8kg? They've got it. An oil to make your hair grow 30cm in a month? They have it to. Whatever your health complaint, they've got the 'medicine'. At the end you're expected to tip everyone and you get taken to their 'pharmacy' where they sell you pots filled with God knows what. They won't let you out of their sight for a second. I couldn't get out of there fast enough! Please don't fall for this scam and tell your tuk tuk driver no! They all get commission...
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