Uda Pussellawa is one of Sri Lanka’s lesser-known yet significant tea-growing regions, located in the central highlands between Nuwara Eliya and Badulla. This region is known for its cooler climate, with a higher elevation ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 meters above sea level. Uda Pussellawa benefits from the influence of both the northeast and southwest monsoons, making it unique in experiencing rains from both directions. This distinct climate, combined with the region’s misty mornings and cool, crisp air, creates an environment that is ideal for the slow growth of tea, allowing the leaves to develop rich flavors over time.
The tea produced in Uda Pussellawa is often described as light, tangy, and slightly floral, with a characteristic hint of rose. Due to the altitude and cool conditions, the tea bushes here tend to produce smaller leaves that are delicate yet flavorful. During the colder months, the tea plants enter a natural dormancy, conserving their energy until the first warm rays of sun signal the beginning of the new growing season. The first flush of tea leaves after this period is highly prized, yielding a liquor that is bright and brisk, with a subtle complexity that sets it apart from other regions.
In terms of terroir, Uda Pussellawa’s combination of high altitude, mineral-rich soils, and weather patterns results in a tea that is smooth yet vibrant. This region is often compared to the neighboring Nuwara Eliya region, but Uda Pussellawa tea tends to be a little more tangy and aromatic, with a refined elegance in its flavor profile. As more tea enthusiasts around the world discover the unique offerings from this region, Uda Pussellawa is becoming increasingly recognized for producing some of the finest Ceylon teas with a distinctive character that reflects its cool, serene environment.
