‘Spice Ceylon’ Showcasing Sri Lanka’s first Spice Heritage Museum

The latest to embrace a new chapter is ‘Lekam Walawwa’, a 360-year-old ancestral manor house nestled at the foot of the historic Aluvihare hills in the Matale District. Reimagined as ‘Spice Ceylon’, the restored Walawwa has been transformed into an exquisite space that beautifully reflects a fusion of tradition and modernity.

Emerging as a new culinary and cultural landmark in the heart of Matale, ‘Spice Ceylon’ marks its grand opening with the unveiling of the ‘Spice Ceylon Museum and an Authentic Sri Lankan Restaurant’. Conceptualised by Thema Collection, the thoughtfully curated spice heritage experience officially opens its doors to visitors, offering an immersive journey into Sri Lanka’s rich spice legacy, agricultural traditions and vibrant cultural storytelling.

Conveniently located in Matale along the Dambulla–Kandy road, in close proximity to the historic Aluvihare Rock Temple, ‘Spice Ceylon’ is thoughtfully designed as a practical, time-efficient stop that seamlessly complements cultural and heritage-focused itineraries.

Drawing on Thema Collection’s extensive experience in heritage-led hospitality and destination storytelling, ‘Spice Ceylon’ has been designed to deliver a well-curated and professionally managed visitor experience that connects history, nature, and gastronomy in a meaningful way.

Chandra Wickramasinghe, the visionary behind the project, expressed his enthusiasm at the opening ceremony, stating, ‘We aim to create a unique dining and cultural experience that honours our rich heritage, while providing a meaningful platform for sustainable tourism. The Spice Ceylon Museum is not merely a restaurant; it is a celebration of Sri Lankan identity and the pivotal role spices have played in shaping our history’.

‘At Thema Collection, we continuously strive to introduce new and meaningful concepts to Sri Lanka’s tourism landscape. Spice Ceylon is something truly different, an experience where guests can explore the history of Sri Lanka’s spices through our dedicated museum, enjoy immersive guided tours and conclude their journey with an authentic lunch inspired by Kandyan royal recipes’ said Chandra Wickramasinghe, the Chairman of Thema Collection.

The restaurant offers an authentic Sri Lankan dining experience, featuring a menu crafted by renowned chefs who specialize in traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations. Guests can indulge in a variety of dishes made with locally sourced spices, ensuring that each meal is a true representation of Sri Lankan flavours. Specialties include aromatic curries, mouth-watering rice dishes, and a selection of delectable desserts that highlight the country’s culinary diversity.

Visitors can explore the museum, which showcases the significance of spices in Sri Lankan culture, from their historical trade routes to their culinary uses. The exhibits include rare artifacts, interactive displays, and educational panels that bring to life the story of Sri Lanka’s spice industry.

For those looking to explore the vibrant flavors and rich history of Sri Lanka, the Spice Ceylon Museum and Authentic Sri Lankan Restaurant promises a unique and enriching experience that highlights the best of what this beautiful island has to offer.

For more details log onto www. themacollection.com