Witness one of Jaffna’s oldest living traditions during an early-morning visit with skilled toddy tappers. From ground level, observe how they climb towering palmyrah trees using techniques and tools passed down through generations. Meet the tappers, hear stories about their daily lives and discover how palmyrah-based livelihoods continue to shape the culture and rural economy of Northern Sri Lanka.

Experience Highlights

• Watch an experienced toddy tapper demonstrate traditional palmyrah-climbing techniques
• Meet local tappers and hear stories about their skills, routines and livelihoods
• Discover the cultural and economic importance of toddy tapping in Northern Sri Lanka

What’s Included

• English- and Tamil-speaking local guide
• Safe, live toddy-tapping demonstration viewed from ground level
• Interaction and storytelling with local toddy tappers
• Introduction to traditional climbing tools and tapping methods
• Insights into the history and cultural significance of toddy tapping
• Bottled water

Additional Information

• Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Starting Times: Early-morning sessions are generally arranged between 4:00 AM and 9:00 AM, depending on the tapper’s routine and availability.
• Languages: English and Tamil
• Meeting Point: Journe Office, an agreed pickup location or directly at the selected palmyrah-growing area
• Accessibility: Suitable for most ages, as the demonstration is viewed from ground level. The location may include sandy, uneven or rural pathways.
• Dress Code: Light, comfortable clothing and closed walking shoes are recommended.
• Season: Available throughout the year, subject to weather and tapper availability.
• Seasonal Addition: Ice apple tasting may be available from April to September, depending on seasonal availability.
• Safety: Participants are not permitted to climb the palmyrah trees and must follow the guide’s instructions throughout the experience.

Journe may reschedule the experience due to unsafe weather, tapper availability or other unforeseen circumstances.