The Institute of Social Development established the first Tea Plantation Workers’ Museum and Archive back in 2007. It is situated in a hundred-year-old line room (workers quarters) in the Old Peacock’s Estate in Paradeka Gampola, on the way to Nuwara-Eliya from Gampola. The Tea Plantation Workers’ Museum and Archive was established to protect and preserve the cultural heritage of the early plantation community. The museum presents the life of the early plantation community in four facets. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday 9.00 am-4.00 pm.
Our digital library provides easy access to a resourceful collection of books written on the rich cultural heritage of the plantation community. You can also learn about the mysteries of the early Ceylon tea culture through these books. Simply view and download to read the publications.
The museum exhibits a unique collection of artifacts including cultural and ritual items, household equipment and appliances used by the early migrant workers. Furthermore, the museum consists of a historical photo gallery offering an insight into the historical backdrop of the Tea Industry (including Coffee) and the origin of the migrant Tea Plantation workers. The Archive consists of various books and documents including written folklore and further provides the opportunity to see videos of folk dances providing a wider spectrum of the diverse aspects of the plantation community.
