Crafted in the Spirit of
Early Ceylon Coffee

Cultivated in fertile soils and slow-roasted to develop depth and balance, each bean reveals a smooth body and naturally rich flavour. Rooted in traditional methods and careful selection, this coffee reflects the authenticity of its source.

Hesaliya Ceylon brings forward coffee that honours its origin, from the land where it is grown to the moment it is enjoyed.

c.1650

1740

1824

1870

1890

Present

Coffee Arrives in Ceylon

Arabica coffee plants were first brought to Sri Lanka (then Ceylon) by Arab traders via India, though local people initially didn’t cultivate them for beverage use.

Dutch Trial in Highwalton

The Dutch made the first organized attempt to grow coffee at Highwalton Estate in Matale, as a test of how well the crop would grow in Sri Lanka’s soil and climate.

Commercial Coffee Plantations Begins

Under British colonial rule, George Bird established the first successful commercial coffee plantation near Gampola. This marked the start of coffee as a major cash crop.

Golden Age of Ceylon Coffee

By the 1870s, coffee plantations covered over 111,000 hectares, making Ceylon one of the world’s top coffee producers alongside Brazil and Indonesia.

Coffee Leaf Rust and the Rise of Tea

The fungal disease Hemileia vastatrix devastated coffee trees across the island. With coffee failing, planters shifted to tea — which eventually became Sri Lanka’s iconic export.

Modern Resurgence & Innovation

After decades of low coffee output, quality-focused growers and specialty coffee initiatives have rekindled interest in Sri Lankan coffee — including festivals, associations, and new industry events celebrating its heritage.

A Standard Defined by Origin

The quality of Ceylon coffee begins at its source. Grown in carefully selected regions of Sri Lanka, each harvest is shaped by fertile soils, balanced rainfall, and attentive cultivation. From bean selection to roasting, every step preserves the coffee’s natural character. The result is a cup defined by clarity, consistency, and origin.

Distinct growing regions

Grown in carefully selected coffee-growing regions of Sri Lanka.

Careful bean selection

Beans are chosen for uniformity, maturity, and character.

Balanced roasting

Roasted with restraint to preserve natural flavour and balance.

Genuine Ceylon origin

Sourced to reflect the true identity of Ceylon coffee.

Partner with a Brand That Reflects Your Values

Every product we source carries the heritage of Sri Lanka and the assurance of global standards. Partner with Hesaliya Ceylon for tea, coffee, and spices that combine tradition, quality, and trust.

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