Matale
Spice Garden Capital of Sri Lanka
Welcome to Matale: Where Spices Tell Stories
Located in the heart of Sri Lanka's Central Province, Matale is renowned as the island's spice garden capital. This aromatic town has been the center of spice cultivation for over 2,000 years, producing the world's finest cinnamon, cardamom, pepper, and countless other spices that have shaped global cuisine.
Beyond its fragrant spice gardens, Matale offers rich Buddhist heritage at the historic Aluvihare Rock Temple, pristine natural beauty at Sembuwatta Lake, and authentic culinary experiences that showcase the true flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine. This is where ancient traditions meet modern gastronomy.
Getting to Matale
3-4 hours via A1 highway through Kandy
1 hour via A9 road - very scenic route
45 minutes via B162 road
Tip: Many spice gardens offer pickup services from Kandy
4-5 hours via Kandy, frequent services
1.5 hours, regular departures every 30 minutes
Train to Kandy, then bus to Matale
Note: Tuk-tuks available for local transportation
Recommended Tour Operator
For a hassle-free and insightful journey to Matale, we recommend booking with Ceylanka Tours—a trusted local operator offering guided tours, private transfers, and authentic experiences throughout the region.
Top Attractions in Matale
Rising 1,348 meters above sea level, Riverston Peak offers one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Matale region. This dramatic cliff-top location provides breathtaking panoramic views across the Knuckles Mountain Range and the surrounding valleys, especially stunning at sunrise and sunset.
The Famous Wind Area
Just before reaching the summit, you will pass through the legendary Riverston Wind Gap—a narrow mountain pass famous for its incredibly strong, howling winds and swirling mist. Here, gusts can reach over 60 km/h, making it feel like you are walking through a natural wind tunnel! The sudden drop in temperature, thick fog, and the roar of the wind create an unforgettable, almost otherworldly experience. Hold onto your hats and enjoy the thrill—this is one of the most unique natural phenomena in Sri Lanka.
- 360-degree panoramic mountain views
- Spectacular sunrise and sunset vistas
- Cool mountain climate year-round
- Popular camping and hiking destination
Matale's spice gardens are living museums where you can see, smell, and taste the world's finest spices in their natural habitat. Learn about traditional cultivation methods passed down through generations and discover how these precious spices shaped world history.
- World's finest Ceylon cinnamon cultivation
- Premium cardamom, pepper, and nutmeg
- Guided tours with spice experts
- Fresh spice purchases directly from source
Dating back to the 3rd century BCE, Aluvihare Rock Temple holds immense significance in Buddhist history. This is where the Tripitaka (Buddhist scriptures) were first committed to writing on palm leaves, preserving Buddha's teachings for future generations.
- Birthplace of written Buddhist scriptures
- Ancient cave temples with beautiful murals
- Peaceful meditation caves and gardens
- Panoramic views of Matale valley
Created by the Kotmale Dam, Sembuwatta Lake is a hidden gem nestled in the mountains near Matale. This pristine lake offers crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, surrounded by lush forests and dramatic mountain scenery.
- Crystal-clear mountain lake waters
- Natural swimming and picnic areas
- Zip-lining and adventure activities
- Stunning mountain and forest views
Tucked away in the dense forests near Matale, Sera Ella is a magnificent waterfall that cascades down rocky cliffs into crystal-clear pools below. This hidden gem offers a refreshing escape into nature, where the sound of rushing water mingles with the calls of tropical birds.
- Multi-tiered waterfall with natural pools
- Perfect for nature photography
- Hiking trail through tropical forest
- Natural swimming opportunities
Dating from the 8th to 10th centuries, Nalanda Gedige is a remarkable archaeological site that showcases a unique blend of Buddhist and Hindu architectural styles. This ancient stone temple, built entirely without mortar, demonstrates the sophisticated engineering skills of ancient Sri Lankan craftsmen.
- 8th-10th century stone architecture
- Buddhist-Hindu architectural fusion
- Built without mortar - ancient engineering
- Intricate stone carvings and sculptures
Often called the 'Mini World's End', Pitawala Pathana is a stunning plateau featuring rolling grasslands that suddenly drop off into dramatic cliff faces. This lesser-known gem offers incredible views without the crowds of its more famous counterpart, making it perfect for peaceful contemplation and photography.
- Dramatic cliff-edge viewpoint
- Rolling montane grasslands
- Less crowded than World's End
- Perfect for sunrise photography
The Knuckles Mountain Range, easily accessible from Matale, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its incredible biodiversity and unique ecosystems. This mountain range offers some of the best hiking in Sri Lanka, with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks through pristine cloud forests.
- UNESCO World Heritage site
- Incredible biodiversity hotspot
- Multiple hiking trails for all levels
- Endemic flora and fauna species
The Spice Heritage of Matale
Traditional spice processing methods preserved for over 2,000 years
For over two millennia, Matale has been the heart of Sri Lanka's spice trade. The region's unique climate and soil conditions create perfect growing environments for the world's most prized spices, particularly Ceylon cinnamon, which is considered the finest variety globally.
Ancient trade routes brought Arab, Portuguese, Dutch, and British traders to Matale, all seeking these precious spices that were once worth more than gold. Today, traditional cultivation and processing methods are still used, ensuring authentic flavors and premium quality.
Matale's Famous Spices:
- • Ceylon Cinnamon - World's finest variety
- • Cardamom - Premium green and white varieties
- • Black Pepper - The "King of Spices"
- • Nutmeg, Cloves, and Vanilla
Culinary Experiences & Spice Tours
- • Guided plantation walks
- • Learn traditional cultivation methods
- • See spice processing demonstrations
- • Taste fresh spices and herbs
- • Purchase authentic spices directly
- • Traditional Sri Lankan curry cooking
- • Learn to use fresh spices properly
- • Authentic family recipes
- • Hands-on cooking experiences
- • Take recipes home with you
- • Watch cinnamon bark peeling
- • See cardamom pod processing
- • Learn about spice grading
- • Traditional drying methods
- • Quality control processes
Where to Stay in Matale
- • Surrounded by spice plantations
- • Authentic plantation experiences
- • Guided spice tours included
- • Traditional Sri Lankan cuisine
- • Peaceful natural settings
- • Convenient town center locations
- • Modern amenities and WiFi
- • Easy access to attractions
- • Restaurant and room service
- • Tour booking assistance
- • Sustainable tourism practices
- • Natural forest settings
- • Organic farm-to-table dining
- • Nature walks and bird watching
- • Cultural immersion experiences
Local Cuisine & Specialties
Must-Try Specialties:
- • Matale-style curry with fresh spices
- • Traditional spice-rubbed grilled meats
- • Fresh coconut sambol with spices
- • Spiced rice dishes and biryanis
- • Traditional spice teas and drinks
Dining Experiences:
- • Spice garden restaurants
- • Traditional village home cooking
- • Local market food stalls
- • Cooking class experiences
Take home the authentic flavors of Matale's world-famous spices.
- • Premium Ceylon cinnamon sticks
- • Fresh cardamom pods and powder
- • Whole black peppercorns
- • Spice blends and curry powders
- • Essential oils and extracts
Activities & Experiences
Temple Visits:
Explore Aluvihare Rock Temple and learn about Buddhist history and meditation practices.
Village Experiences:
Visit traditional villages, meet local families, and learn about rural Sri Lankan life.
Craft Workshops:
Learn traditional crafts like pottery, weaving, and wood carving from local artisans.
- • Swimming and picnicking at Sembuwatta Lake
- • Zip-lining and adventure sports
- • Nature walks through spice forests
- • Bird watching and wildlife spotting
- • Photography tours of plantations
Nearby Places & Archaeological Wonders
Marvel at the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, filled with ancient murals and Buddha statues.
Climb the iconic Lion Rock to discover ancient frescoes, water gardens, and breathtaking views from the summit.
Explore Sri Lanka's last royal capital, home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth and vibrant cultural festivals.
Explore mysterious ruins hidden in the jungle, once home to meditating monks and ancient legends.
Visit the ancient capital with its famous rock outcrops, royal relics, and panoramic city views.
Discover the birthplace of the written Buddhist scriptures, with ancient caves and beautiful murals.
Essential Travel Tips
Matale offers a unique sensory journey through the world of spices that have shaped global cuisine for millennia. From the moment you arrive, you'll be enveloped in the intoxicating aromas of cinnamon, cardamom, and pepper that have made this region famous worldwide.
Beyond the spice gardens, discover ancient Buddhist heritage, pristine natural beauty, and authentic culinary experiences that showcase the true flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine. This is where tradition meets taste in the most delicious way possible.
Come and discover why Matale is the aromatic heart of Sri Lanka! 🌿🍛