Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as “Little England,” is a charming town in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. Famous for its cool climate, lush greenery, and colonial-era architecture, Nuwara Eliya is one of the country’s most popular hill station destinations. Surrounded by tea plantations, waterfalls, and mountains, the town offers a variety of attractions for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. Here’s a guide to the top destinations in Nuwara Eliya:
1. Gregory Lake
Gregory Lake is a beautiful man-made lake in the heart of Nuwara Eliya. Built by Sir William Gregory in 1873, the lake is a popular spot for boating, jet-skiing, and paddle boating. Surrounded by hills and gardens, it’s perfect for picnics or leisurely walks. You can rent bikes or enjoy a boat ride while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding tea estates and mountains.
2. Victoria Park
Victoria Park is one of the most well-maintained parks in Sri Lanka, offering a peaceful escape in the middle of Nuwara Eliya. The park is beautifully landscaped with flowers, trees, and walking paths, making it a perfect spot for families and nature lovers. It’s also a great place for birdwatching, as many species of endemic and migratory birds can be seen here.
3. Horton Plains National Park and World’s End
Just a short drive from Nuwara Eliya, Horton Plains National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its biodiversity and breathtaking scenery. The park’s main attraction is the World’s End, a sheer cliff with a drop of about 880 meters, offering panoramic views of the valley below. The park also has several hiking trails, leading through grasslands, cloud forests, and waterfalls. You can also visit Baker’s Falls, a beautiful waterfall within the park.
4. Pedro Tea Estate
Nuwara Eliya is known for its world-class tea, and a visit to a tea plantation is a must. The Pedro Tea Estate, just a few kilometers from the town, offers guided tours that take you through the tea-making process, from picking leaves to processing them in the factory. You can also taste fresh Ceylon tea and buy some directly from the estate’s tea shop.
5. Lover’s Leap Waterfall
Lover’s Leap Waterfall is a picturesque waterfall located a short trek from the Pedro Tea Estate. The waterfall cascades down from a height of about 30 meters and is surrounded by lush greenery. The short hike to the falls offers stunning views of the surrounding tea plantations and the town of Nuwara Eliya below.
6. Seetha Amman Temple
The Seetha Amman Temple is a Hindu temple located about 5 km from Nuwara Eliya, dedicated to Princess Sita from the Indian epic, the Ramayana. According to the legend, this is the place where Sita was held captive by King Ravana. The temple is a sacred site for Hindu pilgrims and features beautiful architecture and sculptures. The nearby Hakgala Botanical Gardens are also worth a visit.
7. Hakgala Botanical Gardens
Just a short distance from Seetha Amman Temple, the Hakgala Botanical Gardens are the second-largest botanical gardens in Sri Lanka. Established in 1861, the gardens are home to a wide variety of plant species, including beautiful roses, ferns, and orchids. The gardens are set against the backdrop of the towering Hakgala Rock, and it’s a great place for nature walks and photography.
8. Nuwara Eliya Golf Club
Founded in 1889, the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club is one of the oldest golf courses in Asia. It offers a picturesque 18-hole course set amid rolling hills and tea plantations. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast or not, the scenic surroundings and colonial architecture make it a great place to visit.
9. Ambewela Farm
Known as the “Little New Zealand” of Sri Lanka, Ambewela Farm is a dairy farm located about 20 km from Nuwara Eliya. The farm offers guided tours where visitors can see how milk is produced, processed, and turned into cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products. The farm is set in a beautiful landscape of rolling green hills and is home to cows, goats, and rabbits, making it a fun visit for families with children.
10. St. Clair’s and Devon Waterfalls
St. Clair’s Waterfall, also known as the “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka,” is one of the widest waterfalls in the country and is located near Nuwara Eliya. It is best viewed from a viewpoint on the A7 highway. Close by is Devon Waterfall, another stunning waterfall that cascades down in multiple tiers. Both waterfalls are must-see stops on the way to or from Nuwara Eliya.
11. Moon Plains
Moon Plains is a hidden gem in Nuwara Eliya, offering panoramic 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and forests. It is a great spot for an early morning or late afternoon safari tour, where you might spot wildlife such as elk, deer, and various bird species. The viewpoint at Mini World’s End provides a breathtaking vantage point to observe the natural beauty of the area.
12. Adams Peak (Sri Pada)
While not in Nuwara Eliya itself, Adam’s Peak, or Sri Pada, is a popular pilgrimage site located a few hours away. The mountain is famous for the sacred footprint found at its summit, which is venerated by Buddhists, Hindus, Christians, and Muslims alike. Climbing Adam’s Peak is an unforgettable experience, especially if you time your hike to reach the top at sunrise.
Best Time to Visit Nuwara Eliya:
Nuwara Eliya can be visited year-round, but the best time to enjoy its cool climate and natural beauty is during the dry season from February to April. This is also the time of the annual Nuwara Eliya Flower Festival, which showcases the town’s beautiful gardens and parks.
How to Get There:
Nuwara Eliya is about a 5-6 hour drive from Colombo, and Travelra Taxi and Tours can arrange comfortable transportation for you. The town can also be reached by train, with scenic routes passing through tea plantations and mountain ranges.
Whether you’re interested in trekking, sightseeing, or relaxing in the cool climate, Nuwara Eliya offers a perfect mix of nature, history, and leisure. Would you like assistance in planning a tour to Nuwara Eliya for your clients?