At SL VOYO, Sri Lanka’s first travel platform, we help travellers go beyond basic sightseeing and experience the island in a more meaningful way. Whether you are joining our tours or planning your own adventure, here is our friendly guide to Sri Lanka’s treasured cinnamon heritage and the people who continue this timeless tradition.
Sri Lanka has long been known as the “Island of Spices,” and among all its treasures, cinnamon holds a special place in the island’s history and identity. For centuries, Sri Lankan cinnamon has been admired around the world for its rich aroma, delicate flavour, and exceptional quality.
The image above beautifully captures bundles of freshly prepared cinnamon sticks, ready to be packed and shared across the globe. This simple yet valuable spice once attracted traders, explorers, and colonial powers to the shores of Sri Lanka.
Even today, cinnamon remains one of the island’s most iconic exports and a proud symbol of local craftsmanship.
Harvesting cinnamon is a delicate process that requires patience, skill, and experience passed down through generations. After cutting young cinnamon stems, artisans carefully scrape away the outer layer before gently removing the inner bark.
The image above highlights the precision involved in cinnamon peeling, where experienced hands transform raw bark into fine strips that will later curl into the familiar cinnamon quills. Every stage is completed with remarkable care and traditional knowledge.
This labour-intensive craft continues to support many rural communities in Sri Lanka’s southern coastal regions.
Once the bark is removed, it is dried naturally until it curls into thin layers known as cinnamon quills. These fragrant quills are then sorted according to quality before being prepared for export or local use.
The image above captures the careful preparation process, showing artisans working with freshly peeled bark and natural cinnamon shavings. Every piece reflects the island’s long-standing relationship with spice cultivation and trade.
Sri Lankan cinnamon is prized worldwide for its softer texture and sweeter taste compared to other varieties of cinnamon.
Cinnamon is not only valued for cooking but also for its medicinal and wellness benefits. For generations, Sri Lankans have used cinnamon in herbal remedies, teas, and traditional healing practices.
The image above showcases fresh cinnamon bark during processing, reminding us of the natural origins of this globally loved spice. Cinnamon oil and extracts are believed to support digestion, relaxation, and overall wellness.
Today, travellers visiting Sri Lanka can explore cinnamon gardens, spice plantations, and traditional workshops to learn about this fascinating heritage firsthand.
What is it?
Google Ranked #1, the Heartfelt Expedition is a unique tour that invites tourists to personally engage in charitable events from the perspective of a local donor. Participants will be involved in school initiatives, elderly adoption, and community assistance throughout Sri Lanka.
Discover authentic culture and make a difference by helping local communities.
