Nuwara Eliya

The Little England of Sri Lanka

Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as “Little England,” is a picturesque hill station in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. Known for its cool climate, colonial architecture, and lush tea plantations, Nuwara Eliya offers a charming escape from the tropical heat of the lowlands. The town’s scenic beauty, manicured gardens, and historical landmarks make it a popular destination for both local and international travelers.

Things to Do

Visit the Pedro Tea Estate

  • Tea Factory Tour: Take a guided tour of the Pedro Tea Estate, one of the oldest tea plantations in Sri Lanka. Learn about the tea production process, from plucking the leaves to the final product.
  • Tea Tasting: Enjoy a tea tasting session to sample different varieties of Ceylon tea and appreciate the unique flavors and aromas.

Explore Victoria Park

  • Beautiful Gardens: Victoria Park, located in the heart of Nuwara Eliya, is a beautifully landscaped garden with a wide variety of flowers, trees, and shrubs. The park is a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
  • Bird Watching: The park is also a popular spot for bird watching, with several species of birds making their home in the lush surroundings.

Visit the Hakgala Botanical Gardens

  • Exotic Plant Collections: The Hakgala Botanical Gardens, located a short drive from Nuwara Eliya, are home to an extensive collection of exotic and indigenous plants, including orchids, roses, and ferns.
  • Scenic Walks: Enjoy leisurely walks through the gardens, admiring the beautiful landscapes and taking in the fresh mountain air.

Explore Gregory Lake

  • Boating and Water Sports: Gregory Lake, a man-made lake in the center of Nuwara Eliya, offers a range of recreational activities, including boating, jet skiing, and paddle boating.
  • Lakeside Picnic: The scenic surroundings of the lake make it a popular spot for picnics and leisurely strolls. Rent a bicycle or a horse-drawn carriage to explore the area.

Visit the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club

  • Historic Golf Course: Established in 1889, the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club is one of the oldest golf courses in Asia. The 18-hole course is set amidst beautiful landscapes and offers a challenging game for golf enthusiasts.
  • Clubhouse and Facilities: The club’s historic clubhouse and facilities provide a glimpse into the colonial heritage of Nuwara Eliya.

 

Take a Tour of the Seetha Amman Temple

  • Mythical Significance: The Seetha Amman Temple, located in the village of Seetha Eliya, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Princess Sita from the Ramayana epic. According to legend, this is where Sita was held captive by King Ravana.
  • Cultural Experience: Explore the temple’s colorful architecture and learn about its significance in Hindu mythology.

Visit the Lover’s Leap Waterfall

  • Scenic Beauty: Lover’s Leap Waterfall, located near the Pedro Tea Estate, is a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The falls cascade down a rocky cliff, creating a picturesque and tranquil spot.
  • Hiking Trail: Take a short hike to the waterfall, enjoying the scenic views and the fresh mountain air along the way.

Explore the Moon Plains

  • Spectacular Views: The Moon Plains, also known as Sandathenna, offer panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The plains are a popular spot for nature walks and wildlife spotting.
  • Endemic Wildlife: Keep an eye out for endemic wildlife, including sambar deer, birds, and butterflies, as you explore the area.

Visit the St. Clair’s Falls

  • Twin Waterfalls: St. Clair’s Falls, also known as the “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka,” is a stunning twin waterfall located near Nuwara Eliya. The falls are surrounded by tea plantations and lush greenery.
  • Viewing Platform: Enjoy the breathtaking views of the falls from the viewing platform, which offers a great vantage point for photography.

Take a Scenic Train Ride

  • Iconic Journey: The train ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella or Kandy is considered one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. The route takes you through tea plantations, misty mountains, and picturesque villages.

  • Photographic Opportunities: The train ride offers numerous photographic opportunities, with stunning views at every turn. Be sure to have your camera ready to capture the beautiful scenery.

     

     

     

Explore the Horton Plains National Park

  • World’s End: The Horton Plains National Park is home to the famous World’s End, a sheer cliff with a drop of about 4,000 feet. The viewpoint offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular hiking destination.

  • Baker’s Falls: The park also features Baker’s Falls, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation. The hike to the falls is scenic and relatively easy.

     

Visit the Ambewela Farm

  • Dairy Farm Tour: The Ambewela Farm, located near Nuwara Eliya, is a large dairy farm known for its high-quality milk and dairy products. Take a guided tour of the farm to learn about the dairy production process.
  • Fresh Produce: Sample fresh dairy products, including milk, cheese, and yogurt, and enjoy the picturesque surroundings of the farm.

Explore the Galway’s Land National Park

  • Bird Watching: Galway’s Land National Park, located close to Nuwara Eliya, is a small but biodiverse park that is a haven for bird watchers. The park is home to numerous species of birds, including several endemics.

  • Nature Walks: Enjoy nature walks through the park’s dense forests and grassy plains, taking in the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.

Visit the Holy Trinity Church

  • Historic Church: The Holy Trinity Church, built in 1852, is an Anglican church with a distinctive colonial architecture. The church’s beautiful stained glass windows and wooden pews make it a noteworthy landmark.
  • Historical Significance: The church has a rich history and continues to serve as a place of worship and community gathering.

Relax at the Grand Hotel

  • Colonial Charm: The Grand Hotel, a historic colonial-era hotel in Nuwara Eliya, offers luxurious accommodation and a glimpse into the town’s colonial past. The hotel’s beautiful gardens, cozy fireplaces, and elegant dining rooms provide a charming and comfortable stay.

  • High Tea: Enjoy a traditional high tea at the hotel, complete with freshly baked scones, pastries, and a selection of fine teas.

Visit the Nanu Oya Railway Station

  • Historical Landmark: The Nanu Oya Railway Station, located near Nuwara Eliya, is a historic railway station that serves as a gateway to the hill country. The station’s colonial architecture and scenic surroundings make it a notable landmark.
  • Scenic Train Rides: Take a train ride from Nanu Oya to experience the beautiful landscapes of Sri Lanka’s hill country.

Explore the Bomburu Ella Waterfall

  • Hidden Gem: Bomburu Ella Waterfall, also known as Perawella Falls, is a hidden gem located near Nuwara Eliya. The waterfall is surrounded by dense forests and is less crowded than other popular falls.
  • Hiking and Swimming: Enjoy a hike to the waterfall and take a refreshing dip in the cool waters. The area around the falls is perfect for picnics and relaxation.

Visit the Labookellie Tea Centre

  • Tea Plantation Tour: The Labookellie Tea Centre, located near Nuwara Eliya, offers guided tours of its tea plantation and factory. Learn about the tea production process and the history of Ceylon tea.
  • Tea Shop: Visit the tea shop to purchase high-quality tea and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea with stunning views of the surrounding tea fields.

Enjoy a Horseback Ride

  • Scenic Rides: Explore the scenic landscapes of Nuwara Eliya on horseback. Several stables in the area offer guided horseback rides through tea plantations, forests, and along picturesque trails.
  • Equestrian Experience: Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, horseback riding in Nuwara Eliya offers a unique and enjoyable way to experience the natural beauty of the region.

Explore the Nuwara Eliya Town

  • Colonial Architecture: Wander through the town’s streets, admiring the well-preserved colonial architecture and charming buildings. The town’s cool climate and picturesque surroundings give it a unique character.
  • Local Markets: Visit the local markets to shop for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. The town’s relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals make it a pleasant place to explore.

Practical Tips for Visiting Nuwara Eliya

  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Nuwara Eliya is during the dry season, from December to March, when the weather is most favorable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
  • Transportation: Nuwara Eliya is accessible by road and rail. The scenic train ride from Kandy to Nanu Oya is a popular option, offering beautiful views along the way.
  • Accommodation: Nuwara Eliya offers a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury colonial-era hotels. Staying in a hotel with a view of the surrounding hills and tea plantations provides a tranquil and scenic experience.

Conclusion

Nuwara Eliya is a destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, colonial charm, and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring lush tea plantations, strolling through beautiful gardens, or enjoying a cup of Ceylon tea, Nuwara Eliya promises a memorable and enriching travel experience. Plan your visit to this picturesque hill station and discover the many treasures of Sri Lanka’s central highlands.