Our Story

The Journey of Our Basilur Legacy

Leaf of Ceylon

Leaf of Ceylon was where our story began. Created as a tribute to Sri Lanka’s rich tea heritage, it brought together the island’s distinct regional characters into one iconic range, introducing the world to the essence of Pure Ceylon tea.

2008

Leaf of Ceylon
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Island of Tea

With the introduction of our signature packaging, elegance became inseparable from the timeless charm of tea. Designed to be both beautiful and enduring, it marked an important moment in shaping how our tea would be experienced, shared, and remembered.

2009

Tea Book Collection

The Basilur Tea Book marked a new chapter in our story, transforming tea into a storytelling experience. With its signature book shaped design, the collection became a timeless favourite, capturing hearts with every new Tea Book we released.

2009

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Oriental tea collecion

Oriental Collection

Drawing inspiration from Eastern traditions, our Oriental Collection added a new cultural depth to Basilur. Intricate design and a respect for ancient rituals transformed tea into something to be gifted and collected, shaping what has become one of our most loved collections.

2010

The Journey of Our Basilur Legacy

Leaf of Ceylon

Leaf of Ceylon was where our story began. Created as a tribute to Sri Lanka’s rich tea heritage, it brought together the island’s distinct regional characters into one iconic range, introducing the world to the essence of Pure Ceylon tea.

2008

Leaf of Ceylon

Island of Tea

With the introduction of our signature packaging, elegance became inseparable from the timeless charm of tea. Designed to be both beautiful and enduring, it marked an important moment in shaping how our tea would be experienced, shared, and remembered.

2009

Island of tea

Tea Book Collection

The Basilur Tea Book marked a new chapter in our story, transforming tea into a storytelling experience. With its signature book shaped design, the collection became a timeless favourite, capturing hearts with every new Tea Book we released.

2009

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Oriental Collection

Drawing inspiration from Eastern traditions, our Oriental Collection added a new cultural depth to Basilur. Intricate design and a respect for ancient rituals transformed tea into something to be gifted and collected, shaping what has become one of our most loved collections.

2010

Oriental tea collecion

What Makes Ceylon Tea So Special

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The Basilur Story

In every leaf, we carry the heritage of Ceylon and the artistry of generations.

Founded by Dr. Gamini Abeywickrama, a Ceylon tea expert, and creative director Mr. Andrey, Basilur Tea transforms tea from a mere beverage into an extraordinary experience. Our decade of excellence has yielded premium Ceylon teas produced in state-of-the-art facilities and exported worldwide, earning global recognition for superior quality and innovation. We believe tea drinking should be a celebration that brings people together, which is reflected in our packaging and diverse blends for every occasion and season. Tea connoisseurs worldwide treasure Basilur's otherworldly experience, as each tea offers unique characteristics, taste notes, and aroma, from deep dark brews to champagne-like varieties. Through cutting-edge technology and relentless creativity, our products embody the luxurious elements of earth's finest teas, making every cup a joyous affair.

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"At Basilur Tea, our journey began with a vision to share the rich heritage of Ceylon tea with the world, not just as a beverage but as a unique experience. From the very beginning, our goal has been to position Basilur as a global leader in premium tea gifting, competing with the finest international brands. Basilur was founded on a passion for quality, creativity, and innovation. My collaboration with Mr. Andrey, a highly skilled creative director, has been a great strength in shaping the brand’s identity. His expertise has helped us transform tea into a refined and elegant gift, one that brings joy and connection. Quality is at the heart of everything we do. By combining modern technology, continuous research, and a commitment to innovation, we have created a premium range of teas that are recognized and loved worldwide. Every blend is carefully crafted at our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Ceylon, ensuring the perfect balance of taste, aroma, and true character. With distinctive packaging and exceptional flavors, Basilur has earned its place as a trusted name in the global tea industry, winning numerous awards along the way. Tea is more than just a drink, it is a moment to be cherished and a tradition that brings people together. Whether for special occasions or everyday enjoyment, every Basilur tea blend is designed to create a memorable experience.As we continue to grow globally, our focus remains on delivering the finest Ceylon tea and redefining tea gifting with creativity and excellence. We look forward to sharing our passion with tea lovers around the world." Dr. Gamini Abeywickrama - Chairman

Our story is one of place, people, and the timeless elegance of fine tea.

The Story of Sri Lanka & Tea

A Tale of Two Countries, One Purpose

The journey begins in the tea gardens of Assam, India, where Vilayat learned the craft firsthand as a tea planter, shaped by the land and its rhythms. That early foundation was followed by more than 15 years in senior leadership roles at the Starbucks Canada corporate headquarters, where his understanding of the global tea and coffee industry was developed at scale, with a strong emphasis on quality and customer experience. Today, Vilayat draws on both his background in tea and his corporate experience to bring long overdue recognition to the exceptional teas of Sri Lanka, known as Ceylon, a rich and fertile landscape whose depth and character have too often been overlooked.

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This purpose gained momentum through a shared vision with entrepreneur and co founder Simon. What began as a mutual respect for craft and place evolved into a partnership with Basilur Tea, a brand defined by heritage and guided by the belief that how tea is presented matters as much as the tea itself. Together, they established a meaningful connection between Sri Lanka and Canada, built on authenticity, craftsmanship, and a service led approach to long term relationships.

Basilur Tea brings generations of expertise and a deep connection to Ceylon’s tea culture. Its work honours tradition while embracing thoughtful innovation, producing teas recognised globally for their quality and character. For Basilur Tea Canada, this partnership represents more than growth. It reflects a commitment to understanding customers, responding with intention, and delivering an experience grounded in trust, consistency, and attention to detail.

Guided by this shared direction, Simon has shaped the brand’s presence in Canada with a focus on integrity and service. Tea, in this context, is never treated as a commodity. It is respected as heritage, refined through craft, and shared through meaningful connection.

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Together, Basilur Tea Canada brings Sri Lanka’s finest teas to Canada with intention at every stage, supported by a standard of service that distinguishes the brand.

Today, Basilur Tea Canada stands at the intersection of craft and experience. Decisions are informed by consistency, respect for the people behind the tea, and a commitment to doing things well. This approach continues to influence how the brand grows and how relationships are built..

Brewing a Sustainable Future

At Basilur, our commitment to excellence extends to our environmental responsibility. We are proud to announce our recent achievement of three pivotal certifications:Carbon FootprintCarbon NeutralEco-LabelingThese certifications underscore our dedication to sustainable practices across all operations. By choosing Basilur, you're partnering with a brand that prioritizes:Reduced environmental impactSustainable sourcing and productionTransparent eco-friendly practicesWe believe in delivering exceptional tea while fostering a greener future for our planet and communities. Join us in brewing a more sustainable world, one cup at a time.

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Elevate Your Portfolio with Basilur

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Premium Experience

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Innovative & Unique Blends

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Bespoke Packaging

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Freshest Cup Of Tea

Our Accolades

2010

‘Export Brand of the Year’ - Bronze Awarded by Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM)

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2011

‘Export Brand of the Year’ - SilverAwarded by Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM)"

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2011

‘Value added large category’ - Gold Awarded by National Chamber of Exporters (NCE) Sri Lanka

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2012

‘Export Brand of the Year’ - Gold Awarded by Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM)

2012

‘Innovative Brand of the Year’ - Gold Awarded by Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM)

2012

‘Best Product’ - Gold Awarded by Prodexpo Exhibition 2012 Moscow, Russia

2012

‘The most influential brand in China market’ Awarded by Food and wine Magazine (the mostfamous magazine in China) on the study of imported tea market in China

2012

‘Top ten Most innovative products of the year’ Awarded at the SIAL exhibition, Canada

2012

Value added Extra-large’ - Bronze Awarded by National Chamber of Exporters (NCE) Sri Lanka

2013

‘Export Brand of the Year’ - Gold Awarded by Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM)

2013

‘Innovation Selection’ Awarded at SIAL exhibition, Canada

2013

‘Innovative Brand of the Year’- Silver Awarded by Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM)

2014

‘Global Commerce Excellence Awards’In association with Central Bank of Sri Lanka

2014

‘Export Brand of the Year’ - Silver Awarded by Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM)

2015

‘Basilur Tea Book’ - Gold World Food exhibition Poland

2015

‘Most Innovative products’ Awarded at SIAL exhibition, Philippines

2015

‘Most Innovative products’ Awarded at SIAL exhibition, Jakarta

2015

‘Most Innovative products’ Awarded at SIAL exhibition, Middle East

2016

‘Most Innovative products’ Awarded at SIAL exhibition, China

2016

‘Most Innovative products’ Awarded at SIAL exhibition, France

2017

‘Highest FOB achiever for value added tea 2016’ - Gold Awarded by National Tea Awards

2017

‘Best value added exporter 2016’ - Silver Awarded by National Tea Awards

2020

‘Great Taste on English Breakfast, Earl Grey, Cream Fantasy and Autumn Tea’ Awarded by the Guild of Fine Food, UK

2021

‘Great Taste on Oriental ‘Caramel Dream’ teabags, Leaf of Ceylon ‘Uva’ teabags, Cold Brew ‘Coconut & Pineapple’ and Tipson Organic Turmeric Ginger & Cinnamon’ Awarded by the Guild of Fine Food, UK

2021

‘Healthy Brand of the year’ Awarded by Polish Institute of Brand Development

2021

‘Export Brand of the Year’ - Gold Awarded by Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM)

2022

‘Great Taste on Fruit Infusions ‘Wild Rose’ tea bags, Vintage Blossoms ‘Citrus Bliss’ loose tea and Tipson Organic Avocado ‘Tropical Pineapple’ Awarded by the Guild of Fine Food, UK