If you’re searching for a meaningful, authentic experience in Sri Lanka that combines local craftsmanship with social impact, the Nature Design Handmade Product Manufacturing Tour is worth considering. Based in Kotapola, this $30 tour offers a one-day peek behind the scenes of a small, woman-owned enterprise that produces natural, eco-friendly products. Led by knowledgeable guides, it’s a rare chance to see how local raw materials like coir are transformed into practical household items, all while supporting a business committed to empowering rural women.
What we love about this experience is the chance to learn about the entire manufacturing process—it’s educational and inspiring. Plus, the opportunity to purchase authentic products directly from the source adds a nice touch of value. On the downside, the meeting point is somewhat remote, requiring a call for pickup, which might be less convenient for some travelers.
This tour suits those who appreciate authentic craftsmanship, want to support social causes, and are curious about eco-friendly living. If you’re after a quick, meaningful experience that offers insight into local industry and women’s empowerment, this is a solid choice.
Key Points
- Authentic learning about natural product creation from local raw materials.
- Support for rural women through a small, woman-owned business.
- Hands-on insight into five different Nature Design products.
- Affordable price point with a focus on social impact and craftsmanship.
- Limited group size ensures personalized attention.
- Opportunity to purchase products directly from the makers.
The Setting and What to Expect
The tour begins at Kirimetimulla Junction, a somewhat rural spot that requires a quick call for pickup. From there, you’ll travel to the workshop, with a brief stop in Matara lasting about an hour, giving you a taste of local life and scenery. The entire experience, including the visit and return, is designed to last roughly a day, making it accessible even if you have a packed itinerary.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on handmade, natural products like coir scrubbers, cleaning mats, discs, and a pot holder—all crafted with local raw materials. The guide, whose name isn’t specified but is described as knowledgeable, will walk you through the step-by-step process of transforming coir into durable, eco-friendly household essentials.
During the visit, you’ll see how each product is made by hand, from selecting the raw coir to shaping and finishing each item. You can expect to learn about the company’s mission to create employment opportunities for underprivileged rural women, giving this tour a meaningful social dimension.
Planning more time in Matara? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Manufacturing Process in Detail
The core of this experience is the behind-the-scenes look at how Nature Design produces its range of eco-friendly products. You’ll observe the entire process, from gathering local raw materials—primarily coir, a natural fiber from coconut husks—to handcrafting each product with care.
The Nature Design Cocoshine and Nature Design Nature scrubbers are made to be 100% natural, suitable for kitchen and bathroom use. Their eco-conscious design means no chemicals, no plastics—just natural fibers shaped into useful, durable scrubbers. The Cleaning Mat and Discs serve as reusable, biodegradable alternatives to synthetic cleaning supplies, while the Pot Holder combines practicality with sustainability.
Our guides emphasize the importance of using local raw materials, which helps reduce environmental impact and supports local economies. We loved the way the process highlights traditional craftsmanship, blending it with modern environmental awareness.
The Products: What You’ll Learn and Possibly Buy
You’ll get a personal demonstration of each product’s creation, which is surprisingly detailed considering the small scale of the operation. The guide makes sure you understand why each item is not only eco-friendly but also designed for durability and practicality.
If you’re interested, you’re encouraged to purchase products directly—a chance to bring home a authentic, handmade souvenir that supports rural women’s employment. The prices are reasonable, considering the craftsmanship involved, and buying locally made items always feels more meaningful than souvenir shop imports.
The Experience of the Tour
This activity is designed for a small group of no more than 10 people, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience. The English-speaking guide is praised for their knowledge and clear explanations, making the manufacturing process easy to understand and appreciate.
Refreshments like tea, coffee, and cake are served during the session, offering a chance to relax and chat with fellow travelers. The inclusion of water bottles makes sure you stay refreshed as you learn.
One thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s meeting point is somewhat remote, so you’ll need to call ahead for pickup, which could be inconvenient for some. Also, transportation isn’t included, so arranging your own way there is necessary.
More Great Tours NearbyPrice and Value
For $30, this tour offers a unique glimpse into sustainable, handmade production while supporting a social cause. Compared to typical craft or factory tours, the price is reasonable, especially given the opportunity to see products being made firsthand. On top of that, the chance to purchase authentic, eco-friendly products directly from the makers adds to the overall value.
The small group size and personalized guidance ensure you’ll get plenty of attention and detailed explanations, making this more than just a quick look—it’s an educational experience that enriches your understanding of Sri Lankan craftsmanship and social entrepreneurship.
Who Would Enjoy This Tour?
This experience is perfect for eco-conscious travelers, craft enthusiasts, and those interested in social enterprise. If you enjoy learning how things are made and want to support local women’s empowerment, this tour hits the mark. It’s also suitable for travelers with a moderate fitness level, since it involves some walking and standing, but no strenuous activity.
Because of the limited group size and personalized attention, it’s ideal for small groups or solo travelers who want an intimate, authentic experience away from large crowds. Those seeking luxury or highly polished tours might find it too simple or rustic, but for most, the genuine, handcrafted quality will be a highlight.
The Sum Up
This Sri Lanka: Nature Design Handmade Product Manufacturing Tour offers an enriching, affordable experience that combines education, social impact, and local craftsmanship. It’s a chance to see how eco-friendly household items are made by hand from natural fibers, supporting rural women along the way.
Travelers who appreciate authentic stories, supporting small businesses, and learning about sustainable practices will find this tour both inspiring and practical. The guided insight into the manufacturing process makes it more than just a visit; it’s a lesson in eco-conscious living and social responsibility.
While it requires some planning to get to the meeting point, the chance to support women’s employment in Sri Lanka while acquiring meaningful souvenirs** makes it worth the effort. If you want a hands-on, socially conscious activity that enriches your understanding of local industry, this tour will likely be a memorable highlight.
FAQ
Where does the tour start?
It begins at Kirimetimulla Junction, where you’ll need to call the guide for pickup.
Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not provided, so you’ll need to arrange your own way there.
How long does the tour last?
The tour is valid for one day, including stops and return, roughly a full day’s activity.
What products will I learn about?
You’ll learn about five products: Cocoshine, Nature scrubbers, Cleaning Mat, Cleaning Disc, and Pot Holder—each made from natural coir fibers.
Can I buy products during the tour?
Yes, you are encouraged to purchase products directly from the makers, which supports their work.
Is the tour suitable for children?
The information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but it’s a hands-on, craft-focused experience, so younger children should be supervised.
What is included in the price?
You get the behind-the-scenes look, refreshments like tea, coffee, cake, and water, and the chance to see five different products being made.
Are there any restrictions?
Yes, weapons, cameras, smoking, professional cameras, video recording, electronic devices, cellphones, and tablets are not allowed during the manufacturing demonstration.
How many people can join?
The group size is limited to 10 participants for a personalized experience.
Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This tour offers a rare glimpse into Sri Lanka’s artisan craftsmanship, social entrepreneurship, and eco-friendly living. It’s a thoughtful addition for travelers who want to go beyond typical sightseeing and gain a deeper appreciation for local industry and women’s empowerment.
You can check availability for your dates here: