While on a tour of Sri Lanka with Hayes & Jarvis we came across a most extraordinary food experience on the on the outskirts of Kandy . The Hela Bojun Hala isn't just a place to eat - it's a movement, a cooperative effort that celebrates traditional Sri Lankan cuisine while empowering the local women who bring these flavours to life.

The Essence of Hela Bojun Hala

Hela Bojun Hala is more than a mere collection of food stalls; it is a project initiated by the Ministry of Agriculture to empower rural women through entrepreneurship in the food sector. The Hala, or hall, provides a space for these women to cook and sell traditional Sri Lankan foods, made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The initiative serves a dual purpose: preserving the culinary heritage of the island and offering economic opportunities to women.

A Wide Choice of Flavours

As you step into the lively and vibrant environment of Hela Bojun Hala in Kandy, the air is rich with the soound of sizzling, the aroma of spices, and the warmth of the omnipresent Sri Lankan smile. The array of food displayed in this open-air market is a kaleidoscope of colors and textures, each stall telling a different story through its dishes.

The Culinary Delights

One of the star attractions at Hela Bojun Hala is the assortment of 'short eats'—a term endearingly used by locals to refer to a variety of snacks. These include the likes of:

• Kimbula Buns: Crocodile-shaped buns, playfully named for their appearance, which are sweet, soft, and perfect with a cup of Ceylon tea.

• Roti Varieties: From the pol roti (coconut roti) to the kottu (chopped roti mixed with vegetables and meats), each roti is a revelation of simple ingredients turned extraordinary.

• Rice Dishes: The quintessential Sri Lankan meal is a plate of rice with curries. Each serving at Hela Bojun is a testament to the country's rice culture, accompanied by an assortment of curries that range from the fiery hot to the subtly flavored.

A Sustainable and Ethical Feast

Eating at Hela Bojun Hala is not just a treat for the palate; it's a commitment to sustainable and ethical eating. The ingredients are organic and locally produced, ensuring that the food is not only healthy but also supports the island's agriculture. Moreover, the cooperative ensures that the profits go back to the women who have lovingly prepared the meals, making every bite a support to the local community.

The Experience Beyond the Plate

Dining at Hela Bojun Hala is an immersive experience. The women, with their stories and smiles, are as much a part of the meal as the food itself. It's not uncommon for a traveler to be invited to watch and sometimes even participate in the preparation of the dishes, learning about the spices and techniques that are indigenous to Sri Lankan cooking.

The Sweet Conclusion

No visit to Hela Bojun Hala is complete without indulging in the sweet treats. The variety of puddings, from the Watalappan, a coconut custard pudding, to the Kiri Pani, curd with palm syrup, ensures that your gastronomic journey ends on a high note.

Taking the Journey

We’d recommend you visit this place with an empty stomach . The cooperative is usually open from early morning to late evening, making it a perfect spot for any meal or a snack in between. Prices are reasonable, and the experience is priceless.

In Conclusion

Hela Bojun Hala stands as a beacon of Sri Lankan tradition and women's empowerment, a place where food is a celebration of life and community. For the traveler who seeks a connection with the places they visit, a meal at this cooperative in Kandy is a rich, fulfilling encounter with the true essence of Sri Lanka – its people, its land, and its boundless hospitality.