Cinnamon, Cloves, Nutmeg, Cardamom, Pepper and Turmeric these names not only make us think of delicious food but also relate to the age of discovery and to 500 turbulent years in the history of Ceylon under Portuguese, Dutch and British rule.

Instead of falling on the tourist trap of the Spice Gardens take a look at the wonderful vendors inside the Kandy town market. The spice selection is top notch and with the help of your guide you can pay a fair price and shop locally at the place where Sri Lankans buy their spices. Before leaving the market have a look at the array of exotic fruits, our favorites are wood apple with its fermented smell a bit like blue cheese mixed with tamarind. Also look out for the jack fruit, rambutan, mangosteen and many more, there are literally too many to choose from.