nuwara eliya essay grade 9

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Nuwara Eliya

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• Explorelanka - Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya , town, south-central Sri Lanka . It lies at an elevation of 6,199 feet (1,889 metres) above sea level , immediately south of the island’s highest summit, Mount Pidurutalagala (8,281 feet [2,524 metres]), and 25 miles (40 km) southeast of Kandy . From 1830 Nuwara Eliya was a hill station used by the British residents of what was then Ceylon. Because of the elevation, the vegetation is of the temperate sort, and European fruit and vegetables are grown. Although part of a major tea-growing region, the town is also a market centre for rubber, vegetables, rice, and fish. The salubrious climate has led to its development as a hill resort and health spa as well. It is the site of a meteorological observatory. Pop. (2001) 25,388; (2012) 23,804.

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Nuwara Eliya Sri Lanka (City of Lights) is a resort city in the Central Mountain Range of Sri Lanka. Blessed a with salubrious climate, breathtaking views of valleys, meadows, mountains and greenery; it’s hard to imagine that Nuwara Eliya is only 180 Km from the  hot and humid Colombo .

Nuwara Eliya, also known as ‘Little’ England’, was the favorite hill station of the British who tried to create the resort into a typical English Village. The old brick Post office, country house like hill club, with its hunting pictures, mounted hunting trophies and fish, and it’s strict formal dinner attire; the 18 hole golf course, race course etc., evoke nostalgia of Colonial British Ceylon.

Lake Gregory

Lake Gregory is a picturesque, man-made Lake nestled at the bottom of small hills, bordering the town of Nuwara Eliya in Sri Lanka’s mountainous, tea-growing region. A visit or tour of Nuwara Eliya would not be complete without a visit to this scenic lake, with perhaps a boat ride or a walk along its shores. Originally a swamp and bog that was described by early residents as an “eye sore”, Lake Gregory was created by diverting the waters of the Thalagala stream which flows from the nearby Piduruthalagala mountain range.

The nearby town of Nuwara Eliya was “founded” by explorer Samuel Baker in 1846 and became a popular holiday spot for British colonials who wanted to get away from the sweltering heat of coastal cities and into the cool climes of the mountains. As the small town grew and expanded, the Governor of the time, Sir William Gregory, decided that electricity had to be introduced to the town and the Lake was originally created to generate much-needed electricity for the rapidly developing town.

Lake Gregory was fashioned under orders of British Governor Sir William Gregory in 1873. The water from the lake is directed to a place named “Blackpool” in Nuwara Eliya using a tunnel, and is used to generate electricity for the town even today. Lake Gregory also serves as an important catchment area for rainwater and mountain stream runoff, preventing flooding of the Nuwara Eliya town suburbs.

One of the benefits of the lake that was not foreseen by Governor Gregory was the recreational space it provided for the colonial holiday makers. Soon, boat rides on the lake became a favoured afternoon activity, a prelude to a picnic tea on the shores of the lake. Horse riding and pony rides for small children also became a popular activity on the shores of the Lake. It became a society icon, with “lake parties” becoming a trendy activity, and a walk to the lake from the racecourse was considered an invigorating activity for the energetic young people of the day. Of course, the muddy shores of the lake ensured that its popularity reigned with the ladies only during the warm, dry months of the year. The die-hard fishing and horse riding males, however, continued to use the lake year-round.

Lake Gregory continues to be a popular place for water-based activities including boat rides, sculling, fishing and paddle boating. Pony rides are still available for children, continuing the tradition started decades ago. Recent developments in the area have resulted in paved walkways being built along the lake, ensuring a comfortable walk as well as seating areas in scenic sites along the shoreline. Lake Gregory is also the landing site for the Air Taxis which fly into Nuwara Eliya from Colombo and  Kandy .

Hakgala Botanical Gardens

The Hakgala Botanical Gardens is the second largest botanic garden in Sri Lanka and is located in a scenic part of Nuwara Eliya along the Badulla Road. Steeped in legend, often cloaked in a soft mist and always filled with colour and fragrance is the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, located around 10kms southeast of Nuwara Eliya. Tours to the gardens are a popular activity if holidaying in Nuwara Eliya, and while the Gardens are open year-round, the best time to visit and enjoy the beautiful blooms are from April to August, during the relatively dry and warmer period of year.

The Botanic Garden lies under the Hakgala Peak, between 5000 – 6000 feet in elevation – the highest set Botanic Gardens in the world. Hakgala boasts 100-year-old Monetary Cypress trees from California, Japanese Cedars, Himalayan Pines and English Oak.

The Hakgala Botanical Garden span around 27 hectares and are built in a series of terraces, with natural streams flowing through it in several places. The Garden was originally created in 1861 by the British Colonial government under the curatorship of three British of the same name – William Nock, JK Nock and JJ Nock. to grow Cinchona – from which the anti-malaria medicine Quinine was extracted. Thereafter, as tea came to be a commercial crop in the mountainous region, the Gardens became an experimental tea growing area. In 1884 it began life as a Botanical Garden with a wide-ranging and systematic gathering of sub tropical and alpine plants from across the Commonwealth as well as experiments in acclimatising temperate-zone plants to a tropical climate.

Take a tour of the Gardens and be amazed at the variety of plants, estimated at over 10,000 different species. Here you will find a range of conifers and cedar trees from Australia, Bermuda and Japan; Cypress varieties from the Himalayas, China, Mexico and some pine trees from New Caledonia and the Canary Islands. Among the other famous trees in the Garden, there are a group of English Oak trees, introduced to the Garden in 1890 to commemorate the “Heart of Oak” official marching music of the Royal Navy. Among the successful adaptations of temperate trees to this sub tropical climate is a Camphor tree, which usually only grows at elevations of 12,000m.

Ancient mythology has a unique story as to its creation, from the epic tale the  Ramayana . Hanuman, the monkey god, was sent to the Himalayas by Rama to bring back a specific medicinal herb. But he forgot what he was looking for, and decided to bring back a big chunk of the Himalayas, caught up in his jaw. The Gardens today rest at the foot of this huge rock called Hakgala (jaw-rock) which towers over the gardens and the surrounding Hakgala Nature Reserve.

Laxapana Falls (Lakshapana Falls)

Laxapana is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous waterfalls, and perhaps the one that has proven the most useful in terms of generating power to the country, the Lakshapana waterfall is located in Nuwara Eliya district in the country’s mountainous region.

The Laxapana Falls falls are 129m high and rise from the Laxapana estate and plunges into the Maskeliya Oya via Maoussakelle. The waters of this mountainous river are fast moving, rushing over huge boulders and rocks, gurgling across a multitude of small streams around the mountains before emerging as an awe-inspiring waterfall, especially during the monsoon season when the rivers are swollen and full.

Located along the pilgrim’s tour route to Adam’s Peak, Laxapana falls is a favourite stopping place for a rest, an open air meal or a quick bathe in the large natural pools formed in the valley below the falls. The pristine jungle that surrounds the waterfall, which falls across a sheer rock cliff face, adds to the picture-perfect quality of the environment. It’s considered Sri Lanka’s seventh highest waterfall and is part of the Laxapana reservoir, which generates hydropower from a number of power stations in the vicinity.

The name Laxapana is attributed with many origins: some versions take its literal meaning of “a thousand lamps” in sinhala, and the fact that this waterfall is part of a hydropower system that lights up many homes; others describe the name as meaning “a hundred thousand stones”, pointing to the rock and boulder strewn path that the water follows before it gushes out in a waterfall. One fact though can be agreed on – the old name for the waterfall was “veddah hiti ella” meaning, the waterfall where the Veddah lived. The Veddah, Sri Lanka’s indigenous people, perhaps had a small colony in this area and lived in the many caves and cliff dwellings in this mountainous area.

Lover’s Leap Waterfall, Nuwara Eliya

Most visitors to a country love to learn about local folk tales and nothing makes a good story like a love story. And so, as visitors on tour stop at one of Nuwara Eliya’s most famous landmarks, the stories of the sad end of an ill-fated romance begins. Lover’s Leap in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka’s popular holiday town in the mountains, is a massive rocky cliff with a waterfall of the same name.

Its name is derived from the fate of a young couple who decided to be bound together forever by jumping off the cliff to their demise. But the romantic tale of what brought them to this point, or the manner in which they met their end are woven into a myriad stories, each changing with the storyteller or perhaps even the day on which you hear it. Whatever the reasons behind the lovers plunge, the name has stuck and the entire cliff is now named Lover’s Leap.

The Lover’s Leap waterfall is a breathtaking sight, falling to a height of 30m in a long, cascading sheet of water. Located on a tea estate, the Lovers Leap waterfall is only 2km from Nuwara Eliya town, making it the closest waterfall to the bustling holiday town and resulting in its popularity with visitors and tour groups alike.

The waters that feed this waterfall are said to originate on the southern end of the Pidurutalagala mountain range, Sri Lanka’s highest. The waters are taken to brew the famous Nuwara Eliya Beer. Access to the Lover’s Leap waterfall is off the Nuwara Eliya – Kandapola Road.

Devon Falls

The Devon waterfall, located in Talawakelle in the Nuwara Eliya district is one of Sri Lanka’s most distinctive waterfalls. The waterfall drops for a sheer 97m of cascading water, and thereafter flows in three continuous tiers, making it waterfall after waterfall. It’s a beautiful and amazing sight.

And its one of a pair of waterfalls – a few meters away is the St. Clair waterfall, which together provides one of the most breathtaking waterfall sights in Sri Lanka to any visitor. Tour groups invariably stop and gaze in rapture from the look out point in Talawakelle, across a deep tree-filled gorge into which the water from the two falls flow and disappear. This is perhaps the only place in Sri Lanka where you can view two magnificent waterfalls, each distinctly different, from the same vantage point.

The Devon falls are located on Devon Estate, originally a coffee plantation which was transformed into tea and continues to be a working tea plantation today. The estate takes its name from a pioneering coffee planter named Devon, who is also attributed with clearing trees and shrubs around the falls to showcase the amazing waterfall at its best.

Tea plantation and factory visit

Tea is one of the three major natural products in Sri Lanka. Tea is exported along with rubber and spices. Sri Lanka is popular in western and European countries because of our very pure tea leaves that are hand-plucked from the exuberant hills in the central region.

Get your shoes on to avoid the creepy crawlies; a hat to keep your ears out of the cold. Take the opportunity to stroll around a tea plantation and watch “Ceylon Tea” as it makes its way to that warm cup you can enjoy with the backdrop of glorious Sri Lankan hills.

With the tour of the factory you’ll be able to see how the leaves are withered, sorted, graded and packed into packs. Signed, sealed and delivered for you to take back home for friends…or to keep it yourself!

Oliphant Estate – Nuwara Eliya

A visit to this estate, entrance from the road at the Ramboda end of Nuwara Eliya, is significant because it was here that the first thirty tea plants sent from China to Sri Lanka were planted by Mr. Laurence Oliphant, increasing his tea acreage to 100 acres.

The Ceylon Breweries – Nuwara Eliya

The brewing of beer was started in Nuwara Eliya by Sir Samuel Baker in 1881 at Lover’s Leap. It is an interesting visit, for the brewery is one of the finest in the island. It’s been in business since 1884.

Activities in and around Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara eliya city tour.

Nuwara Eliya is known as ‘Little England’ due to its climatic features and because the town has been designed and built to look like a typical English village. A Nuwara Eliya City Tour will typically take you past  quaint buildings such as the red brick Post Office, the esteemed Hill Club, The Golf Club with its 18 hole course and the Race Course, where Horse Races are still conducted regularly. The flowers that bloom during the season add a splash of color to the landscape and a boat ride on Lake Gregory is a fun activity. You will also visit the Hakgala Gardens and picturesque tea plantations.

Visit Horton Plains

The Horton Plains area is considered one of the richest biodiversity hotspots in Sri Lanka and was declared a National Park in 1988. It was added to the World Heritage List in 2010 along with two other mountainous nature reserves in the Central Highlands of the country.

Horton Plains National Park at 200m, is the highest plateau in the island and is located at the foot of two of Sri Lanka’s tallest mountains, the Totapola (2359m) and Kirigalpotta (2395m). Situated about 32kms from Nuwara Eliya and 8kms from Ohiya, Horton Plains Park covers around 3,160 ha in total. The highland plateau is undulating and covered with grassland, patches of thick forest, waterfalls, streams and rocky outcrops. The Plains are a beautiful, silent, strange world with some excellent soft and hard trails.

Horton Plains is considered Sri Lanka’s most important watershed, being the place of origin for many of the country’s major rivers, including the Mahaweli, Kelani and Walawe. It also contains the most extensive cloud forest that remains in the country, and is home to dozens of endemic species of fauna and flora.

The history books record that Lt. William Fisher and Lt. Albert Watson discovered the Plains in 1834, and they named it Horton Plains after the then Governor of Ceylon, Sir Robert Wilmot-Horton. However, this area was known to locals as “Maha Eliya Thenna” or the great open plain, and archaeological artefacts such as stone tools from Sri Lanka’s pre-historic era have been found to indicate that this area was inhabited and even cultivated for many centuries before the British visitors first came here.

Horton Plains and the adjoining Peak Wilderness Sanctuary are home to some of Sri Lanka’s most endangered plants and animals. Nearly 750 species of plants have been so far identified here, and when walking through its rich forest areas you will find that the forest canopy reaches nearly 20 metres in some places. There are dozens of wild orchids here, and 16 of them are endemic to Sri Lanka.

Among the wildlife in this Plain, 24 species of mammals, 87 species of birds, nine species of reptiles and eight species of amphibians have been identified. Among the most commonly seen mammals are the Sambar Deer, wild boars, Langurs, Giant Squirrels and if you are lucky you may even see a Leopard. One of the world’s most endangered primates, the Horton Plains Slender Loris, also calls this area home.

Horton Plains is a bird watchers paradise and groups often visit on bird watching tours, hoping to catch a glimpse of one or more of the 21 species of birds which are endemic to Sri Lanka. A large number of migratory birds are also found here and in the adjacent Peak Wilderness Sanctuary.

Perhaps the most popular tour destination at Horton Plains is World’s End, a sheer cliff precipice at the Southern end of the park. The drop from World’s End is 870m and has a breathtaking view on clear days, although most times it is covered in a thick white mist. Another popular visitor attraction is Baker’s Fall, a magnificent 20m waterfall that is named after explorer Samuel Baker who is credited with having discovered and established the township of Nuwara Eliya.

Play Golf at Nuwara Eliya

Located in the town of Nuwara Eliya which sits high in the hills among the Tea plantations, is the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club with its splendid course, built by a Scottish soldier in 1889. The venue for many tournaments, this course is challenging and exciting, with many characteristics and distinctive natural elements that golfers should watch out for. The weather and scenic surroundings will make your entire sojourn peaceful and happy, more so since the Club offer accommodation and all modern amenities along with great service always accompanied by a smile.

Adam’s Peak

Adam’s Peak is popularly known among the locals as Samanala Kanda, or Butterfly Mountain in Sinhala. The mountain is 2,243 meters tall tapering at its peak and is the most esteemed site in the Sabaragamuwa Province. Why is it special? It is unique as it is a blessed site to the followers of the world’s four major religions; Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity and Islam. Buddhists believe that the mark of the footprint is the left foot of the Buddha. Hindus believe that it is the footprint of Shiva.

Muslims attribute it to as where Adam, the first man, set foot when he was exiled from the Garden of Eden and Christians believe that the it is a footprint of St. Thomas who was the disciple Jesus. There are seasons in which the holy site is visited most by followers but the climb itself is a memorable journey.

The climb is through Gampola and Ginigathhena and you will find the story of this old path carved on two rocks off the 28th milestone on the Nawalapitiya – Ambagamuwa road. The spot is called Akuruketupana and the inscription dates to around 1100 AD. Today there are four other roads to the peak, the shortest being via Maskeliya and the most popular. Other roads are on the Sabaragamuwa side.

The Nissangala Lena on the road to Adam’s Peak (via Maskeliya, Hatton)

This is believed the cave in the mountainside, where King Keerthi Sri Nissanka buried a great treasure, including his regalia. It is only after one passes this cave and enters the forest that one comes to the Sita Gangula, a holy river of ice-cold water, where pilgrims bathe and put on white garments, before continuing their journey to the peak.

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Nuwara eliya.

Probably the best-known of Sri Lanka’s tea-growing districts, Nuwara Eliya is also the most rugged and mountainous, with the highest average elevation. The air is cool and bracing; the winds are scented with eucalyptus and wild mint. Rainfall is moderate except during the dry season, which falls between February and April. Nights are cold and sometimes frosty. This unique climate, combined with the terrain peculiar to the region, produces a tea that is recognized by connoisseurs as among the finest – if not the finest – in the world.

Tasters’ Notes for Nuwara Eliya Tea

NUWARA ELIYA – “Delicately fragrant”

Nuwara Eliya’s high elevation combined with low temperature, produces teas of exquisite bouquet. The infusion in the cup is the lightest (palest) of all the types of Ceylon Tea, with a golden hue and a delicately fragrant flavour. Sought after grades include whole-leaf Orange Pekoe (OP) and Broken Orange Pekoe (BOP).

History of Nuwara Eliya and Tea

Historically speaking, Nuwara Eliya is a relatively new place. The town from which the district takes its name sits perched on a plateau 1,868 m (6,128 ft.) above sea level, under the shadow of Sri Lanka’s highest mountain, Pidurutalagala. Almost inaccessible in olden times due to the precipitous, jungle-clad terrain surrounding it, this scenic plateau was effectively uninhabited when it was discovered by an English explorer in 1818. Impressed by its magnificent scenery and climate, Sir Edward Barnes, the British governor of the time, resolved to turn the locale into the similar of Ceylon, a fashionable hill-station to which the government and society of the capital, Colombo, could repair during the hottest and unhealthiest months of the year. He accomplished this by the simple expedient of building a house there himself (it is now the Grand Hotel) and occupying it every year between March and April. ‘Newralia’ thus became, for a few weeks every year, the capital of colonial Ceylon.

In the early 1840s, a boom in Ceylon coffee saw the rapid conversion into plantations of parts of the hill country barely explored by Europeans until then. The pioneers who carved out these remote estates south and east of Kandy were lonely men who endured lives of some hardship; in the value of Nuwara Eliya they found a salubrious and centrally-located place of meeting and recreation. The town that sprang up to serve their needs was a largely womanless place at first, shaped by the interests of the men who frequented it. Clubs and watering-holes proliferated, sporting tournaments and ‘shoots’ were regular events, but domestic and civic conditions were primitive.

Later, as the boom progressed, wealth and the civilized comforts it brought changed the character of Nuwara Eliya. By the beginning of the tea era, it had become a genteel, somewhat pretentious little town, self-consciously English in character. For most of the British period it remained a largely European enclave, and a few Nuwara Eliya clubs even went so far as to maintain whites-only membership policies for some years after Independence.

But Nuwara Eliya was always a bit too high up in the hills for coffee, and the frequent rains often damaged the crops. The district only found its métier after the great blight of the 1870s and ’80s had wiped out the coffee industry and Ceylon planters turned to tea.  Desultory experiments with the new crop in earlier times had already shown it could be successfully cultivated there; now, it rapidly became clear that Nuwara Eliya offered an almost perfect climate for tea. By 1875, the first modest plantations were already flourishing, and by the end of the century, Nuwara Eliya was one of the principal tea-growing districts of Ceylon. It was generally acknowledged to produce some of the finest teas in the world – a reputation it has retained ever since.

Sri Lanka Travel Advisor

Nuwara Eliya – ‘city of light’

Nuwara Eliya Often referred to as ‘Little England’, with its colonial-era bungalows, British architectural hotels, pretty English-style gardens and cool climate give British-country-village feeling in the hill country of the   Central Province, Sri Lanka. Its name means “city of light”. The city is the administrative capital of Nuwara Eliya District, with a picturesque landscape is at an altitude of 1,868 m (6,128 ft.) Due to the high altitude Nuwara Eliya has a much cooler climate than the other part of Sri Lanka, with a mean annual temperature of 16 °C. But it may come down to 3°C in December, January and February, sometimes there can be frost in late night. The city is overlooked by Piduruthalagala or Mount Pedro in English, the tallest mountain in Sri Lanka, at 2,524 m (8,281 ft.). Nuwara Eliya District is the most important location for high grown tea production in Sri Lanka.

Hill country ever green forests lying in the shadow of Pidurutalagala protected by rulers of Sri Lanka as this is the most important catchment area.  City of Nuwara Eliya became a British creation, having been ‘discovered’ accidently while hunting out by colonial officer Dr. John Davy in 1819 and chosen as the site for a sanatorium a decade later. Sir Edward Barnes, governor from 1824 to 1831 built his home known as “Barnes Hall” which is today called the Grand Hotel. In 1838 Samuel Baker, an explorer, discovered Nuwara Eliya as a place with the similar climate of England much suitable for European vegetable cultivation and initiated it at Magasthota Baker’s Farm. In recognition of his work at Nuwara Eliya the broadest water fall in Nuwara Eliya was named after him and is called “Bakers Falls’. Later the district became a spot where ‘English’ vegetables and fruits such as lettuce and strawberries could be successfully grown for consumption by the colonists. Coffee was one of the first crops grown there, but after the island’s coffee plantations failed due to disease, the colonists switched to tea. In 1872, Sir William Gregory became the governor of Sri Lanka and further developed Nuwara Eliya to a place of beauty and a typical English climate and atmosphere and was instrumental in building Lake from a swamp in the center of the city to what is today known as Gregory Lake. In 1877 Sir Robert London became the Governor, who was instrumental in building the railway track from Peradeniya to Nawalapitiya and then from there to Hatton and Nanu Oya.  Ethnic composition in Nuwara Eliya district changed after English planters brought Tamils from South India to work in tea plantation.  

Historical landmarks

Nuwara Eliya post office located in the center of Nuwara Eliya and is one of the oldest post offices in Sri Lanka which was built in 1894 by British according to the Tudor style. Two storied bright red brick wall and pink colour roof tiled building with clock spire is one of the oldest building in Nuwara Eliya retains its colonial glamor. In 2012 the former quarters of the post mast was converted into accommodations for tourists. Visitor can purchase some of pretty postcard and post them to their notables at the same time from this post office.    

Seetha Amman Temple is located 5 kilometers  from Nuwara Eliya close to Hakgala Botanical Garden on the way to Badulla. . The temple is located in the village of Seetha Eliy (meaning light of cool). This place is believed to be the site where Sita was held captive by king Ravana, in the Hindu epic, Ramayana. [  On the rock face across the stream are circular depressions said to be the footprints of Hanuman. This is  one of most sacred places in Sri Lanka for Indian Hindu pilgrims.

Construction of church started in 1845 and completed in 1852. In 1889 the church was enlarged. The original portion of the building is at the church’s western end. The additions can be noted by the difference in size of the corbels supporting the main rafters. On 18 April 1954 Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh attended services at the Holy Trinity church, with the Queen gifting a blue carpet and a stained glass window in remembrance of their visit. here are a number of memorial plaques on the church walls including Dr. G. Gardner, Superintendent of the Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya; Captain William Fisher, father of Lord John Fisher, who was thrown off his horse and killed; Reginald Beauchamp Down all, tea planter, Legislative Council member; and Lady Carolina Ridgeway, wife of Sir Joseph West Ridgeway, Governor of Ceylon.

The churchyard also several tombstones, including ones for Lady Olive Mary Caldecott, wife of Sir Andrew Caldecott, the last Governor of Ceylon, and the family members of Sir Samuel Baker.

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Hiking, Trekking and wildlife

Horton plains and world’s end.

Horton plan is a plateau covered by montane grassland and cloud forest at an altitude of 2,100–2,300 meters (6,900–7,500 ft.) In Sinhala the plains are known as Maha Eliya Plains This was discovered by a planter, Thomas Farr in early 19 th century and named Horton plans in 1843 in honor of then Governor of Ceylon. This popular tourist destination for  nature lovers, wildlife photographers, adventure hikers and researchers is situated 8 kilometers  from Ohiya railway station, 6 kilometers from the world-famous Ohiya Gap/Dondra Watch and 32 kilometers from Nuwara Eliya. Pattipola railway station, New Zealand farm, Kande ela lake and Ambewela are other important places pass by the way to Horton plan from Nuwara Eliya.

The Horton Plains are the headwaters of three Sri Lankan rivers, the longest river of the country-Mahaweli, and two major rivers Kelani, and Walawe. Horton Plains is bounded by the country’s second and third highest mountain peaks of Sri Lanka: Mount Kirigalpotta  (2389 m) and Mount Thotupola Kanda (2357 m).

Horton plan is rich in biodiversity and many species found here are endemic to the region.   Large herds of Sri Lankan sambar deer feature as typical mammals and the other mammals in the park are Strip-neck mongoose, long-tailed giant squirrel, wild boar, bear monkey, toque monkey fishing cat, otter and some more.  The park is also an Important Bird Area with many species not only endemic to Sri Lanka but restricted to the Horton Plains Among them are Sri Lanka bush warbler, Dull-Blue flycatcher, Sri Lanka whistling thrush and the yellow-eared bulbul, Sri Lanka Wood Pigeon, Sri Lanka White-eye, Spot-winged Thrush, Dull-blue Flycatcher, Sri Lanka Bush Warbler, Scaly Thrush, Sri Lanka Whistling Thrush, Brown-capped Babbler, Sri Lanka Spur-fowl and Sri Lanka Jungle-fowl. Other highlights are the Himalayan migrants Pied Thrush, Kashmir Flycatcher & Indian Pitta. Black Bird, Mountain Hawk Eagle, Black Eagle, Jerdon’s Baza, Pied Bush chat, Hill Swallow and Hill Myna commonly found.

The average annual temperature is 14-16⁰C while the humidity is relatively low at 65%. Though annual rainfall of the highlands is about 2540mm but it may increase to more than 5000mm. Best time to visit Horton place is dry season (January to May) but should not miss even if you travel in other season to Sri Lanka.

9 km main circular track begins from visitor’s centre which also has the Horton plan museum. On the southern edge of the Horton Plains at an altitude of 2140m is famous World’s End, which drops straight down about 900 Meters, with a magnificent view. From World’s End, the trek turns off to inland and there is another lovely attraction, Baker’s falls.

Kirigalpotta is the 2nd tallest mountain in Sri Lanka at 2,388 m (7,835 ft) above mean sea level, after Pidurutalagala. Kirigalpoththa is the highest point in the Horton Plains National Park This 7 KM trail (14 up and down) will take around 5 – 6 hours of trekking, hiking & hillwalking adventures. Attempting Kirigalpoththa is for the daring adventurers only as the conditions can be treacherous due to the difficulty of the terrain and weather.

Kirigalpotta mountain

Piduruthalagala Mountain

Pidurutalagala or Mount Pedro in English is an ultra prominent peak, and the tallest mountain in Sri Lanka, at 2,524 m (8,281 ft). It is situated North-North-East from the town of Nuwara Eliya, Its summit is home to the central communications array of the Government of Sri Lanka and armed forces, and serves as an important point in the country’s radar system. So there are some limitations to general public to enter the highest point of Sri Lanka, you can reach there by a vehicle in day time only.

Single Tree Mountain is the 7 th tallest mountain of Sri Lanka at 6890 ft. above mean sea level and takes about 90 minutes to reach the top. Single Tree hill is the best vantage point to observe the beauty of Nuwara Eliya which gives an amazing view of the city below where you could captivate the beauty of the Hakgala Mountain range, Pidurutalagala range, Lake Gregory and if whether permits Adam’s peak also.  The track, after the top of the hill is passing through tea plantation and montane forest to reach Sri Lanka’s highest village, “Shanthipura” with an elevation of 2034 meters. The observation point at Shanthipura will provide you yet another bird’s eye view of City of Nuwara Eliya.  

Single Tree Mountain

Galway’s land National Park

Galway’s Land National Park is one of the smallest (27 ha) and newest (18 th May 2006) national parks situated within the city limits of Nuwara Eliya. The park was declared to conserve the montane ecosystems.  Galway’s Land harbours about 20 rare migrant bird species and 30 native species and some mammals like buffalo, wild boar, barking deer.

Entertainments and relaxation

Victoria park.

Victoria Park is an attractive, and best-maintained, town park located, opposite to the Nuwara Eliya Post Office 

The park was named in 1897 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee of coronation.  The Nanu Oya River runs through the park, creating a number of small lakes. It’s also home to quite a number of hill-country bird species, including the Kashmir flycatcher, Indian pitta and grey tit. At the far end of the park is a small children’s playground and miniature railway. With the full bloom of flowers the park comes alive around March to May, and August and September.

Gregory Lake is a reservoir in heart of the Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka. Lake Gregory was constructed during the period of British Governor Sir William Gregory in 1873 by damming of the Thalagala stream, which originates from Mount Pidurutalagala to convert the area to a lake which was originally a swampy bog at the foot of the small hills that border the town. With new development of Gregory lake area, this prominent attraction is used for water sports and recreational activities. Lake Park, Boat Rides are available. A plenty of street food stalls located in a separate area where one can enjoy a meal or a snack. Sea planes are landed here especially in tourist seasons.

Gregory Lake

Kande ela Lake

Kande Ela lake is a serene lake surrounded by hills from one side and the Hakgala Strict Nature Reserve from the other side on the route to Horton plan from Nuwara Eliya. This reservoir was built in 1947-49 by Hon D.S. Senanayake, first Prime Minister of Sri Lanka and was opened in 1950 Water of this reservoir is used primarily for supply drinking water to the area. Therefore, no engine powered boats allowed, and manual boats can be hired to ride on this water.    

Not to miss – Waterfalls

Grate waterfall 3km away from Nuwara Eliya city at HawaEliya  ( 15 minute walk or 5 minute by Tuk Tuk) This Beautiful 30 m high waterfall  brooks of Sri Lanka’s highest mountain, the Piduruthalagala It flows over hard granite ledges. There are two routes to reach this place one route start from Nuwara Eliya – Ragala road just opposite to Prdro tea factory and go through the tea plantation and reach the tea manager’s bungalow along a dirt road. Visitors can reach this destination by following the signs that are there and eventually one can reach a rock face and a Shiva shrine. Other route start from the Lady Mcalams Road just behind the General Hospital Nuwara eliya.  

Glen Falls originates from the northern side of ‘Single  Tree Hill’ (with an altitude of 2070m) Due to the excessive and illegal clearing at the top of the Single Tree Hill and use the water for cultivation on the top of the hill, this perennial waterfall dried up in the early 1990’s and turned in to a seasonal fall. The waterfall can be observed during and just after heavy rains to Nuwara Eliya.  It is easily accessible as this waterfall is only at a walking distance from the city centre closed to Manudi Glenfallsedge rest. 

St. Clair’s Falls, commonly known as the “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka”  is one of six waterfalls affected by the Upper Kotmale Hydropower Project. Water fall lost much of its’ beauty ofter the project.  The falls are situated 3 kilometres west of the town of Talawakele on the Hatton-Talawakele Highway in Nuwara Eliya District.

The falls are located along the Kotmale Oya, a tributary of the Mahaweli River, as it cascades over three rock outcrops into a large pool,running through a tea estate, from which the falls derive their name from. The waterfalls consist of two falls called “Maha Ella” (meaning “The Greater Fall”), which is 80 m  high and 50 m. wide and “Kuda Ella”, (meaning “The Lesser Fall”), which is 50m high and located immediately downstream of the main fall. St Clair’s falls are the 20th highest waterfall in Sri Lanka.

known as the ‘Veil of the Valley’, is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Sri Lanka, situated 6 km (3.7 mi) west of Talawakele, Nuwara Eliya District on the A7 highway ( road to Nuwara Eliya from Colombo through Awissawlla and Hatton.   The waterfall is 97 m (318 ft) high and is the 19th highest in the country. The falls are formed by a tributary of Kothmale Oya, which is a tributary of Mahaweli River. The elevation of Devon Falls is 1,140 m (3,740 ft) above sea level.

Bomburu Ella is the widest waterfall in Sri Lanka It is located near the border of Nuwara Eliya and Badulla districts, approximately 15 km from Welimada town. It consists of several small waterfalls grouped together. The source of the falls is a lake located in Nuwara Eliya.

How to get in

Transportation from Bandaranaike International Airport to Nuwara Eliya

• Private Vehicle Transfer:

Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), one of the most convenient and comfortable ways to reach Nuwara Eliya is by hiring a private vehicle or taxi. This option allows you to have a personalized travel experience, with the freedom to stop at scenic spots along the way. The journey from the airport to Nuwara Eliya takes approximately 4-5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and weather.

Advantages:

• Comfort and convenience: You can relax in the privacy of your own vehicle.
• Customizable itinerary: You have the flexibility to plan stops and detours.
• Direct route: The driver will take you directly to your destination without any other stops.
• Scenic Train Ride:

If you seek a unique and picturesque experience, consider taking a train from Colombo Fort Railway Station to Nanu Oya, the nearest railway station to Nuwara Eliya. The train ride offers stunning views of tea plantations, rolling hills, and cascading waterfalls.

To reach the Colombo Fort Railway Station from the airport, you can take a taxi or hire an airport transfer service. Trains to Nuwara Eliya run several times a day, and the journey takes approximately 6-7 hours. While the duration is longer compared to other options, the breathtaking scenery makes it an unforgettable adventure.

• Scenic journey: The train ride offers some of the most stunning vistas in Sri Lanka.
• Authentic experience: Interact with locals and immerse yourself in the country’s culture.
• Budget-friendly: Train tickets are more economical compared to private transfers.
• Public Buses:

For budget-conscious travelers, public buses are a cost-effective option to reach Nuwara Eliya from the airport. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle service to Colombo’s Central Bus Stand (Pettah Bus Stand). Buses to Nuwara Eliya depart frequently from here.

The journey by bus takes approximately 6-7 hours, and the buses range from regular to semi-luxury, with varying levels of comfort. While this option may not offer the same level of convenience as private transfers, it allows you to experience Sri Lanka like a local.

• Affordable: Buses are the most budget-friendly option.
• Cultural experience: Travel alongside locals and get a taste of everyday life.
• Frequent departures: Buses to Nuwara Eliya run regularly throughout the day.

Whichever transportation mode you choose, your journey to Nuwara Eliya promises to be an adventure filled with breathtaking vistas and memorable experiences. Whether you prefer the comfort of a private vehicle, the scenic train ride, or the budget-friendliness of public buses, each option offers its unique charm.

Before making your choice, consider your budget, travel preferences, and time constraints. Regardless of the mode of transportation, your destination, Nuwara Eliya, awaits with its picturesque landscapes, lush tea plantations, and welcoming atmosphere. Prepare to be enchanted by the “Little England” of Sri Lanka and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Safe travels!

Transportation from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya: Your Scenic Journey through the Hill Country

If you’re planning to explore the picturesque landscapes and cool climate of Nuwara Eliya from Kandy, you’re in for a treat! The journey between these two stunning destinations in Sri Lanka’s hill country offers travelers a memorable experience filled with breathtaking views and charming vistas. Here are the various transportation options available to make your trip from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya seamless and enjoyable.

A private vehicle transfer is the most comfortable and convenient option for traveling from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya. You can book a private car with a professional driver to pick you up from your hotel in Kandy and take you directly to your destination in Nuwara Eliya.

• Personalized experience: You can stop at scenic spots or attractions along the way.
• Comfort and privacy: Travel at your own pace and in the comfort of a private vehicle.
• Flexibility: Set your own departure time and enjoy a hassle-free journey.
• Train Journey:

The train ride from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is renowned for its breathtaking views of rolling hills, lush tea plantations, and mist-covered valleys. It is considered one of the most scenic train routes in Sri Lanka.

To take the train, you need to reach Kandy Railway Station, where you can board a train heading to Nanu Oya, the closest railway station to Nuwara Eliya. The journey takes around 3-4 hours, depending on the train type and schedule.

• Scenic journey: Enjoy panoramic views of the picturesque hill country.
• Cultural experience: Interact with fellow travelers and locals on the train.
• Unique adventure: The train ride adds an extra layer of charm to your journey.

Public buses provide an economical option for travelers on a budget. From Kandy, you can catch a bus heading to Nuwara Eliya at the Kandy Public Bus Stand. Buses run regularly throughout the day, and the journey takes approximately 4-5 hours.

• Cost-effective: Buses are the most budget-friendly option.
• Frequent departures: Buses run regularly, offering flexibility in your travel plans.
• Local experience: Travel alongside locals and get a taste of everyday life in Sri Lanka.
• Shared Vans and Taxis:

Shared vans and taxis are a popular choice for travelers who prefer a faster journey than buses but want to avoid the cost of a private vehicle. You can find shared vans and taxis at various designated points in Kandy.

• Faster than buses: Shared vans and taxis offer quicker travel between the two destinations.
• Economical for small groups: Sharing the cost with fellow travelers reduces expenses.
• Convenient pick-up points: Find these services at key locations in Kandy.

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Nuwara Eliya: An English Tale in Sri Lanka

Being a tropical country located near South India, I used to think that when visiting Sri Lanka, all I needed to pack was summer clothes. Wrong.

Especially if you’re planning to stay in Nuwara Eliya, a beautiful English town on top of a hill.

Dubbed Little England, the town is a contrast to other cities in Sri Lanka not only because of the English history, but also the climate and architecture.

Founded by Samuel Baker in 1846, Nuwara Eliya’s cool climate (daily average of 16°C) made the town a favourite place to stay for British civil servants and colonialists.

I’m so happy to include Nuwara Eliya in my Sri Lanka itinerary. After some hot and sweaty days, finally, I can feel the cold breeze on my face!

Some places to visit are The Town Post Office, The Queen’s Cottage, Victoria Park, The Hill Club, The Grand Hotel, Gregory Lake and The Royal Turf Club.

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The Hill Club

You don’t have to be a member to visit the luxury, colonial-charm club. Visitors can pay a one-time pass of LKR100 (around RM2) for a tour inside the club.

The guide will bring you to all the rooms and you can take some photos.

Also read: “9 Fun Facts About Sri Lanka That You Should Know”

The Grand Hotel

I wish I could stay in this four-star hotel, but just taking a walk inside the hotel is enough to make me happy.

Although there’s a newer, five-star hotel nearby, I think The Grand Hotel is better because of the English-style architecture.

The hotel also has a café and a few restaurants connected to the hotel (Indian, Thai, etc), so visitors can dine without entering the hotel.

Besides the beautiful atmosphere, many travellers come here for the famous high tea.

Gregory Lake

The beautiful lake is named after a British Governor during its construction in 873, Sir William Gregory.

Where to Stay in Nuwara Eliya

If you’re thinking to take the iconic train ride from Kandy to Ella, you’re going to miss a lot of things. I know many travellers take this train route, so I ask my guide his opinion.

He says those who take the Kandy-Ella route are mostly backpackers who don’t want to or don’t have enough money to stay in Nuwara Eliya.

By now, some of you may think that staying in Nuwara Eliya is expensive. Don’t worry, there are many nice budget hotels that also serve delicious food!

My hotel is located deep inside an alley and the road isn’t even smooth. However, it turns out to be a nice and comfortable hotel.

Daffodils Hotel is just a 5-10 minutes walk from The Grand Hotel and The Royal Turf Club.

If you feel lazy to come out for dinner, opt for a delicious buffet in the hotel for just LKR1,100 (around RM25).

If you’re thinking to visit Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka and have some questions, just write a comment on this blog/FB post or email me?

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Hello Jasa Forex and Kristal, for me it could take a few hours to write 1 blog post because I insert many photos. I have no programming knowledge either, I’m using a template for the layout design. I feel you need to have the dedication to update your blog regularly and maintain authenticity and content quality. If you’re selling products or services, you can incorporate SEO. Last but not least, create content that’s useful/meaningful to the readers. I hope that helps 🙂

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Nuwara Eliya – A Slice of ‘Little England’ in the Heart of Sri Lanka

• Last Updated March 17, 2024
• Sri Lanka , Asia

Heading into Sri Lanka’s hill country, the island’s stuffy, humid interior is quickly replaced by a chill. The roads wind precariously up the swollen green hills into the cool wisps of cloud and mist that hang between them.

Specs of colour move slowly along the red dirt paths crisscrossing the patchwork of green as tea pluckers diligently pick the newest sprouting leaves from each bush. As they nip the leaves, they fling them over their shoulders into the heavy sacks that rest on their backs, secured with a single strap around their foreheads. Some wear colourful saris while others resort to long overshirts in the hope that it will protect them from the sun during long days in the fields.

Moving south-east into the epicentre of this tea-producing region, the smog and pollution of Kandy is replaced by fresh, dew-filled air; palms and wetlands soon become forests of towering, delicate eucalyptus; and gradually the concrete buildings begin to thin out, first replaced by wooden hovels with corrugated roofs that are in turn supplanted by stone walls, cottages and rustic churches surrounded by manicured gardens filled with shrubs and colourful bouquets. A few of the estates have familiar names: for every Sinhalese-named building, there is a multitude of sprawling estates with titles like Lavander house or Warwick Gardens, Stafford Bungalow or Somerset. This is England, but not as we know it.

Before the British came to Ceylon, there was nothing where Nuwara Eliya now stands. The high plain was first spotted by a group of English officers who were out in the hills on an Elephant hunting expedition. Sir Edward Barnes, the island’s governor wasn’t instantly drawn to the region, enraptured by the bleakness, drizzle and mist-covered landscape that reminded him so much of home. He decided to transform the hills into a sanitary retreat where troops could recover from the tropical diseases they had picked up in the muggy lowlands. In doing so, he created his own little England.

While much of my travels are spent searching for something different, searching for a place to break the mundanity of home, Nuwara Eliya feels incredibly English. Disconcertingly so. Mock-Tudor buildings dominate the town, half-stone and half-timber piles enclosed by wrought iron fences with neatly mown lawns and pristine flower beds. Wander the streets and you will find rose gardens, clock towers, tea shops, a quaint little post office and a Holy Trinity church. There is even a boating lake, golf club, and racecourse at Nuwara Eliya’s northern edge. If you didn’t know any better, you could be in Windermere or Keswick.

Yet, there is something a little off. Spend any amount of time in Nuwara Eliya and you will see beyond the surface, that the Englishness is mostly a superficial façade, an uncanny valley depiction of ol’ Blighty. At heart, this is still very much a Sri Lankan Town. The bus station is dusty and noisy, tuk-tuks whizz around the streets honking their horns, and monks in orange robes gather outside the town’s temple with its enormous, colourful statue of Lord Buddha.

Yet it does feel English. It could be the flower-covered roundabouts and WWII memorials or is it the white-washed cottages and semidetached homes? The town’s market is a prime example of this dichotomy. The moustachioed men chain-smoking and listening to Sinhalese music are as Sri Lankan as they come, but they are wrapped in woolly hats and padded, off-brand Barbour coats to protect against the cold and wouldn’t look out of place as barrow boys in Covent Garden as they gather at a kiosk, sipping a concoction for which both our nations are famous: Tea.

Although the region is synonymous with tea, coffee was once the main product of Sri Lanka’s hills. It was brought here by the Arabs, long before Europeans set foot on the island, with the Sinhalese using the leaves to flavour their curries rather than brewing the beans. When the British arrived on the island, after failed attempts at growing both sugar and indigo, they decided to give coffee a try, inspired by its success in the other colonies of Jamaica, Guyana and Dominica

Ceylon saw a coffee rush as military men, civil servants and even civilians invested in plantations, lured by the promise of wealth and exoticism. Unfortunately, after months at sea followed by long treks through the hills on foot, most found that the ‘estates’ that they had purchased were nothing more than patches of virgin forest that had been stolen from the Kandyans.

Despite this, the British managed to oversee successful coffee production until the 1880s when the crop was devastated by ‘coffee rust’, a fungus of the leaf that was laying waste to plantations all over the world. By the end of the 19t century, many planters had uprooted their coffee plants and replaced them with tea bushes imported from china. The plants thrived and the rest, they say, is history.

The forests that these early coffee and tea pioneers were cleared by planters almost two centuries ago and now, almost every possible hillside is covered in a leafy carpet of squat, green tea bushes, rippling across the landscape as far as the eye can see. It’s hard to see where one estate ends and another begins, with each looking identical to the others and only narrow dirt paths and handwritten signs separating the Damros from the Pedros.

Turning through the gates of the Damro Labookellie tea factory, I find myself stood before a large, 4-story factory, concrete with a faded green tile roof. It looks as though it hasn’t changed in the 2 centuries since its construction if it wasn’t for the shiny new visitor centre and café that has been attached to the building’s side. The tour of the factory is interesting and the tea tasting afterwards is welcome, but the real reason to venture into the hills is for the scenery. All around the factory, the land drops off into the valley below where tea pluckers stand on the terraces with scarves draped across their heads to protect from the rain, full bags of leaves ready to be weighed and valued.

Behind the main building, narrow roads lined with eucalyptus connect a series of villas that wouldn’t look out of place in surrey, villas that were built by the pioneers on ridges high above the plantations so that they could survey their estates and their growing wealth.

For a century, Nuwara Eliya was the hub of country life for wealthy colonists and in a way, still is. Some parts of the town have remained willfully unchanged in the intervening years to appeal to a certain type of person that rues the passing of the ‘good old days’. Nowhere exemplifies this quite like the Hill Club. Built in 1867, this building was upper-class Victorian England in microcosm: A gentleman’s club for coffee and tea planters; blazing fireplaces in every wood-panelled room, billiard tables, elephant foot umbrella stands and hunting trophies adorning the walls. It only designed to allow women entry in 1967, a – full century after its construction, but at least one of the gentlemen only bars has been amended to a mixed-sex venue. It is like stepping into a Harris Tweed sponsored time warp.

For me, both the Hill Club and the town’s equally plush Grand Hotel are a little too extravagant and instead I find myself at the aptly named Blackpool. While it isn’t quite as kitsch as the northern seaside town of the same name, it may be just as dated. It stands high above the town with sweeping views of the nearby landscape, set against the hazy backdrop of the surrounding hills. From here, with the drizzle pounding against the hotel’s windows, it is easy to see why the region reminded Sir Edward Barnes so much of home. I settled in for my single night in Nuwara Eliya at the hotel’s bar, cradling a local Lion Lager. I get the impression that the room is designed to resemble the sort of gentleman’s bar you would find at the Hill Club but the sticky carpets, pool tables and mobile DJ in the corner banging out cheesy pop hits while 3 drunken Sri Lankan’s throw themselves around the otherwise empty room gives more ‘mid-week Weatherspoon’s’ vibes. This certainly does feel like England after all.

Where to Stay in Nuwara Eliya

Laughing leopard hostel.

There aren’t many backpacking hostels in Nuwara Eliya but of the few that exist, Laughing Leopard is the best. Located just 10 minutes from the central bus station, this hostel has a focus on sustainability, furnished with colourful upcycled materials in an early 20th-century bungalow.

The Blackpool

The Blackpool stands at an altitude of 1876m, surrounded by vast tea estates, carefully tended vegetable plantations and beautiful mountainous terrain. The décor is a little dated but certainly gives off colonial vibes, particularly the wood-panelled bar area complete with billiard tables. There is even a heated, outdoor pool to help you warm up from the chilly hill country weather.

Heritance Tea Factory

Set on a hilltop away from the town, the 5-star Heritance was built within the wonderfully preserved shell of the Hethersett Estate Tea Factory. Despite the exterior, the inside of the hotel is cosy and modern, with many of the old plantation’s machinery being incorporated into the stylish design.

Things to do in Nuwara Eliya

The real draw of Nuwara Eliya is its oddly British air: the sprawling faux-Tudor landmarks, misplaced architecture and strange, English country village kitsch. The unpredictable weather does have the tendency to put a dampener on your ability to explore the town and its adjacent lake but the charming town and its stunning heritage hotels make a fantastic base for exploring the stunning southern hill country landscapes and tea estates.

Sample Ceylon Tea at a Historic Tea Estate

Sri Lanka is so synonymous with tea, it’s hard to believe that before the mid-1800s, it was mostly a coffee-growing nation. It wasn’t until James Taylor planted his first tiny tea plantation in 1867 and further developed the production process with Thomas Lipton (yes, of Lipton Tea fame) that Ceylon tea made a name itself.

Sri Lanka’s tea production has definitively come a long way since those initial 19 acres that Taylor planted, but not much has changed in the way that it is harvested: In the numerous plantations that surround Nuwara Eliya, women weave their way across the verdant green hills each day, using their well-trained and nimble fingers to pick the new leaves and buds from the top of the tea bush.

It wouldn’t be a visit to Nuwara Eliya without a visit to one of the factories churning out the nation’s most famous export and the Damro Labookelie Tea Estate, around 20km north of the town is the best of the bunch. Set high in the gorgeous rolling countryside at an elevation of around 2000m, the factory offers free tours in which you will be guided step-by-step through the production process, finishing with a tea tasting session at their on-site café. However, the best reason to visit is the opportunity to wander the Labookelie tea gardens amongst the Tamil women as they fill their sacks with leaves.

Take a Ride on the World's Most Beautiful Train Journey

First constructed by the British in the mid-19th century as a way to transport the produce of the regions bountiful tea plantations, the line that weaves its way from Nuwara Eliya through the lush hill country to Ella, Haputale, and Bandarawela in the east or to the nations cultural capital of Kandy in the west is said to be one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.

The trip from Nanu Oya, near Nuwara Eliya, to Ella takes a couple of hours, stopping off at all manner of delightful hill country towns and railway stations along the way. At each destination, locals scurry out onto the platform only to be replaced by a new influx of passengers, joined by men that squeeze their way down the packed carriages with baskets of fruit, freshly cooked rotis and urns of steaming Sri Lankan tea that they sell for just a few rupees.

A few intrepid passengers sit in the open doorways, their dangling legs swaying with the carriage’s motion and their heels beating against the train’s metal body, only pulling them inside to avoid battered railway signs or approaching tunnels. As you look from the windows at the countryside unfurling before you like lush green blanket tumbling across hills and valleys, speckled with plantation houses, tea fields and lanky, lurching palms, it’s easy to see why people hold this route in such high regard. Occasionally the scenery gives way to villages and hamlets where local life is in full swing: children running and laughing on the side of the rails, farmers tending to their fields and women preparing their washing. Eventually, they fade into view, once again being replaced with waterfalls and mountains.

This is quintessential Sri Lankan experience and, in a world where hyperbole seems so commonplace, one that actually lives up to the hype. I’m in no doubt that this may be the most beautiful train journey in the world.

Shop at the Central Market on New Bazaar Street

While the mock-Tudor mansions and sprawling green spaces that surround Nuwara Eliya are beautiful, the town’s main thoroughfare, New Bazaar Street has little of interest other than rows of local shops and food spots. However, the small Central Market is definitely worth a look. Set up during the colonial era, the stalls are very much as they were in those Victorian times; rows upon rows of fruit and vegetable stalls sold by men bundled up in woolly hats and labourers jackets, with only the sari-clad Tamil women shopping for onions and potatoes breaking the illusion of an old English market.

Pidurutalagala

Pidurutalagala towers high over the town with its peak rarely seen through the cloud cover and mist that often hovers over the hill country. At 2555m it is Sri Lanka’s highest mountain. Although the summit was once closed due to the military base that sits atop it, a section is now open to the public. However, hiking is still off-limits due to the array of military communication masts that are still used by the army so you will have to catch a tuk-tuk or taxi there (45 mins; Rs. 3000 return). Make sure to bring your passport to ensure you are allowed past the security gates.

Have High Tea at the Grand Hotel

Nowhere in Nuwara Eliya is more evocative of Britain than the brash, half-timbered Grand Hotel. This sprawling, luxurious, century-old pile gives of serious country club vibes and with its splendid wooden décor, historic bars, and billiards room, there is no better place in town to immerse yourself in colonial-era Nuwara Eliya. For the full experience, come for high tea. At 3.30pm sharp every day, High tea – complete with dainty cakes and triangular sandwiches – is served either out on the lawn or in the tea room by stoic waiters in waistcoats and white gloves.

Lake Gregory

Stretching from Nuwara Eliya’s southern end all the way to the foot of the surrounding hills, Lake Gregory was created by the governor, Sir William Gregory, in 1873. While not wildly impressive or exciting, the footpaths and lawns that line the western shore are a pleasant place to walk, particularly in an evening when locals and Sri Lankan holidaymakers flock here to picnic, ride horses, or float along in swan-shaped pedalos.

Victoria Park

Named for the former ruler of British Ceylon, Victoria Park is a little slice of Britain, with pristine lawns and a number of beautiful ornamental gardens. Located just off the main road and next to the noisy, bustling bus depot, the gardens are a surprisingly peaceful place to wander amongst the enormous eucalyptus trees and rose bushes. Its even prime bird-watching territory with a number of rare species such as the Kashmiri flycatcher and Indian blue robin stopping by on their migration routes.

Where to Eat & Drink in Nuwara Eliya

The majority of Nuwara Eliya’s best restaurants are confined to the town’s larger, upmarket hotels which offer a range of fine dining and international options as well as having fantastic colonial-era bars, particularly the Hill Club’s atmospheric ‘Mixed Bar’.

There are plenty of local, Sri Lankan cafes dotted along the town’s main drag and while many of them serve up the same mix of curry, rice and short eats, they can provide a cheap but tasty meal. Make sure to check out the small kiosks lining New Bazaar Road where you can find wonderful rotis, samosa and prawn dumplings for as little as Rs. 10 (4p) each.

The Hill Club

If you want to throw yourself headfirst into the past and re-live the colonial era, then the Hill Club is the atmospheric throwback that you need. Formal dress – meaning a jacket and tie for men – is required in the main dining room where waist-coated waiters in pristine white gloves serve classic, British cuisine. While the food may not be of a standard befitting the surroundings, it is worth stopping by for the atmosphere, even just to sip a whisky in the old-fashioned ‘Casual Bar’. Visitors are required to pay a temporary club membership fee of Rs. 100 to use the facilities.

Where : 9 Grand Hotel Rd When : Daily 12pm – 10.30pm

De Silva Food Centre

Of the numerous Sri Lankan Cafés that occupy New Bazaar Street, De Silva Food Centre is probably the best. They serve a few western and Chinese dishes but the cheap vegetarian rotti and range of curries make this the best place in town to stop for a budget lunch or dinner. Try their ulundu vade because it is apparently the best you will find in this region of Sri Lanka.

Where : A/2 Building New Bazaar Street, When : Daily 7am – 10pm

Grand Indian

A small, casual, Indian restaurant at the foot of the Grand Hotel’s sprawling driveway. This is probably the best option in the city for Indian cuisine and despite being part of the exclusive Grand, all the dishes are reasonably priced. It does get busy so make sure that you arrive early to guarantee a table.

Where : Grand Hotel Rd When : Daily 12pm – 3.30pm and 6.30pm – 10pm

Another in the Grand Hotel’s fairly large selection of restaurants, the Grand Thai offers a good range of South-East Asian cuisine such as curries, stir-fries and noodle dishes for around Rs. 600 – 800 per main.

Indian Summer

Although a little overpriced, the north Indian curries served at this ‘fusion restaurant’ are as good and as authentic as anything found at the Grand Indian, with the added bonus of being lakeside with beautiful views over Lake Gregory.

Where : 96 Gemunupura, Mahagastota When : Daily 10am – 10pm

Another mainstay of New Bazaar Street, Sri Ambaal is a cheap, south Indian spot with a menu of delicious vegetarian curries, short eats and string hoppers. The dosas are particularly popular.

Where : New Bazaar Street When : Daily 7am – 10.45pm

Sharing a building with the Grand Indian, this modern café situated on the driveway of the Grand Hotel is one of the few places in town where you can find a decent cup of coffee, along with decent cakes and a few underwhelming sandwiches.

Where : 5 Grand Hotel Rd When : Daily 7am – 9pm

When is the Best Time to Visit Nuwara Eliya?

Nuwara Eliya gets consistent rainfall throughout the year due to its high altitude, although February is usually the least rainy month. Just be warned, winter can be a little chilly here, especially at night. It is best to avoid the Sinhalese-Tamil new year in April when people flock here from Colombo to enjoy the onset of spring when the city is beginning to bloom. During this time accommodation can be hard to come by and prices tend to skyrocket.

Getting to Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya is easiest to reach by train. Although it doesn’t have its own station, Nanu Oya is just 5km away and has regular services to Ella, Haputale and Badulla to the east and Kandy or Colombo in the west. Although local buses arrive to meet each train and ferry passengers onwards to Nuwara Eliya, a tuk-tuk will be quicker and cost around Rs. 500 – 600 (between £2 and £2.50).

Nuwara Eliya’s bus station is right in the centre of town and as well as running services to the destinations mentioned above, there are also buses to Bandarawela or Galle (1 daily; 8 hours) and Matara (1 daily; 9 hours) on the southern coast.

I visited Nuwara Eliya as a guest of Sri Lanka Tourism. However, all views are my own.

Dave McClane

David McClane is a photographer and travel writer based in Leeds, UK. Since first picking up a camera on a yearlong journey through Central and South America in 2014/2015, He has carefully documented his travels through almost 50 countries.

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The Heart Of British Ceylon – Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

The waiters, elegantly dressed in white livery, move sophisticated and smooth between the tables. “ Would you like some more tea, madam? ” It must be the fifth time the waiter asks me if I want a refill on my cup of tea, and, of course, I say yes every time. The table is beautifully set with white exclusive porcelain tableware, and the cake stand is bulging with perfectly groomed sandwiches, mini burgers, and tiny cakes of all shapes and colors.

I look over my shoulder, and I swear I get a glimpse of both Poirot and Miss Marple sipping on a cup of tea with their pinky finger sticking out discussing a complicated crime.

We are having high tea at the Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya, and it feels like we have stepped back in time by 200 years, back to when Sri Lanka was called Ceylon and was ruled by the British. Only the guest`s modern clothes and smart-phones reveal that we are not in the era of the British colonists that once chopped down the jungle in these hills and built the town Nuwara Eliya, also called “Little England,” and started planting tea bushes here.

We have brought my mom and dad for their first visit to Sri Lanka, to show them this beautiful country that we fell in love with in 2014. We had, however, never been to this city before and to our surprise, there are lots of things to do in Nuwara Eliya.

The History Of Nuwara Eliya

This cool hill area of Sri Lanka was once wilderness consisting of forest and jungle, located in the shadow of the 2524 m high mountain Pidurutalagala, aka Mount Pedro. The hill area was “discovered” by the British colonial officer John Davy back in 1819 who decided to build a sanatorium here.

The town Nuwara Eliya was founded in 1846 by Samuel Baker, an explorer that also discoverer Lake Albert in Uganda and explored the Nile river.

Nuwara Eliya, which means “City of Light,” soon became a favorite cool-climate escape for the British as well as a “home away from home” where they could grow English vegetables and fruits such as lettuce and strawberries. They also started to grow coffee here, but when the coffee plantations suffered a disease and died, they switched to tea .

The first tea bushes were planted in the mountains between Nuwara Eliya and Kandy and were a huge success both in taste and how fast the tea bushes grew here. The British soon started planting vast areas with tea bushes and one tea plantation after the other popped up, making Nuwara Eliya the tea capital of Sri Lanka’s Hill Country.

Well, the British did of course not plant these bushes themselves, oh no, they used Sri Lankan workers as well as Tamils brought over from India.

Nuwara Eliya Today

Today Nuwara Eliya still has this English country village vibe to it, with its red telephone boxes, pink brick Victorian post office, a well-maintained golf course, horse racing course, colonial bungalows, and rose gardens.

But at the same time, it is very Sri Lankan with water buffalos grazing the hillsides, green tea bushes everywhere, crazy traffic roaming the streets, the smell of rice and curry, and bustling markets and small shops in the streets.

Best Time To Visit Nuwara Eliya

Except for June till the end of August when there is a monsoon season in the highlands of Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya is a great place to visit all year round.

From November to February/ March, Nuwara Eliya is quite chilly with temperatures below freezing at night, quite the opposite from the west coast with its tropical climate and temperatures up to 40 degrees Celsius. So bring warm clothes, or buy some at one the street markets, or you might catch a cold like my mom did. We visited Nuwara Eliya in January and had only 5 degrees Celcius in the evenings.

April is the big spring month in this area, and all of a sudden this sleepy town explodes into a busy and crowded party-party town. It gets packed with Sri Lankan holidaymakers enjoying horse racing, street food, and hill climbing as they celebrate Sri Lankan New Year together with friends and family. In April the cost of accommodation skyrockets and it gets hard to find a hotel room. So it might be a good idea to avoid April if you can.

Things To Do In Nuwara Eliya

1. high tea at the grand hotel.

Hight tea at The Grand Hotel is the best tea experience in Nuwara Eliya, and maybe in the whole of Sri Lanka. Sipping tea and eating delicious cakes and sandwiches, in the middle of the tea capital Nuwara Eliya, in the majestic colonial Grand Hotel from 1891 is a must-do!

I would say it was one of the highlights of our visit to Nuwara Eliya, and I just wanted to have high tea here every day. That little chocolate fudge cake, ahh, just loved it!

High tea is served outside in the big garden in front of the Grand Hotel and the semi-open-air tea lounge to the left of the hotel`s entrance.

• When: Every day 15:30 – 18:00
• Cost: 800 Sri Lankan Rupees = 5 USD (and you can drink as must tea as you can manage!)

2. Victoria Park

The beautiful Victoria Park is located in the middle of Nuwara Eliya. It is well maintained and well worth a stroll around for an hour.

The entrance to Victoria Park

We accidentally met the chief gardener of Victoria Park when we were walking there with my parents, and he ended up showing us around and telling us about all the plants, trees, and flowers. Very interesting and so nice of him!

To our surprise, many of the flowers and plants were imported from our home country Norway because of the cold climate in Nuwara Eliya. Rather odd, who would have thought that?!

The gardener told us that the park is at its peak and most beautiful around March to May, and August and September when all the flowers are in bloom with all their colors.

• Opening hours: 07 – 18
• Cost: 300 Sri Lankan Rupees = 2 USD

3. Gregory Lake

We visited Nuwara Eliya on the weekend, and Gregory Lake and its surrounding park were filled with locals having an afternoon stroll, playing around with their kids, flying kites, and having some snacks at one of the many food stalls.

The paved walkway surrounding the lake is perfect for an afternoon stroll.

Me and my mom going for a stroll by Gregory Lake

My dad having a rest by Gregory Lake

And if you get tired of walking, you can always rent a swan-shaped paddle boat, a water scooter, a rowing boat, a motorboat, or why not go for a pony ride?

Or do like us, grab a table at one of the small food stalls and order some roti and fresh potato chips.

• Opening hours: 08 – 18
• Cost: 200 Sri Lankan Rupees = 1,5 USD

4. Nuwara Eliya Town

Take a walk around the downtown of Nuwara Eliya and soak in the English town vibe. There are several colonial style houses like the old pink post office where you can send postcards to your loved ones.

The letter box inside Nuwara Eliya post office

The post office

Nuwara Eliya Golf Club

For 500 Sri Lankan Rupees per day, you can even do some putting if you want, and pretend you are an original British colonist. To hire golf clubs cost 1500 Sri Lankan Rupees per day, and golf shoes 500 Rupees.

In the Golf Club`s garden, right by the entrance, there is an old gravestone of a mad British governor that killed thousands of elephants just for sports. One day when he was out elephant hunting, a lightning strike hit him, and he fell dead to the ground. He got buried where the Golf Club is, and a couple of years after his death, another lightning strike hit his grave and broke his gravestone in two! Well, he had it coming if you ask me. Talking about karma and God`s revenge……

• Webpage:  https://www.nuwaraeliyagolfclub.com

The Hill Club  is a beautiful colonial style building, dating back to 1876, surrounded by a lovely garden covering 26 acres.

It was once a gentlemen’s club exclusive for the British colonists with a bar and a billiard room. Women and locals were only allowed in 1967. Today it is a hotel with 39 rooms.

You can also have dinner at the Hill Club, which is an event in itself with a four-course menu of typical English meals. There is a dress code, however, where men must wear a tie and jacket (you can rent this for free at the hotel), and women must wear formal clothes.

If you want to break a sweat, you can pay a visit to the Hill Club`s Tennis. It cost 500 Rupees per hour, including balls and racquet, and the club has four clay tennis courts. Be careful, however, not to kick the ball too hard as it might end up at the neighboring president`s residence. You might not get it back……

5. Tea Factory And Tea Plantation

A visit to a tea factory is a must! There are several tea companies in the area , obviously since we are in the middle of the tea capital of Sri Lanka.

We visited the Storefield Tea Factory where we got an informative guided tour of the factory and saw how the tea is picked, dried, heated, and sorted into different kinds of tea.

The tea production inside this factory takes place during the evening and night when it is colder, so we did not see much action. In the end, we got to taste the different type of teas that they produce.

Pedro Tea Estate, built in 1885, is another option located 3,5 km east of Nuwara Eliya.

We also went for a little walk up in the hillside above Nuwara Eliya town, through tea bushes belonging to Pedro Tea Estate. It was a nice walk, it felt like walking on a sea of green and lush leaves. From the tea plantation, we got a beautiful view of Nuwara Eliya town and Gregory Lake.

6. Moon Plains

Moon Plains National Park, also called Sandatanne and Sandagalatanne, is the newest attraction in Nuwara Eliya and opened in 2014, located just a few kilometers from Nuwara Eliya.

We had arranged with a driver with a jeep to pick us up at the hotel at 08 in the morning. The drive to Moon Plains is very scenic, through potato fields and farms growing different kinds of vegetables.

The road goes all the way through the park to a plateau called “the second Worlds End” (about 3 km from the entrance), the name taken from the more famous Worlds End at Horton Plains, where we enjoyed a 360-degree view of the surrounding peaks and towns. The area is home to Elk, wild buffaloes, leopards, dear and many different birds.

Wild water buffaloes

We were the first ones at the viewpoint and got to sit down on the grass overlooking the valley below and eating the breakfast that our hotel had provided for us in peace and quiet, just listening to the birds. It was a wonderful experience!

From the park you can see many mountains; Pidurutalaga (8,281 feet), Single Tree Mountain ((6,890 feet) Kikiliyamana Mountain (7,339 feet), Great Western Mountain (7,257 feet), Konical Hill Mountain (7,116 feet) Kirigalpoththa Mountain (7,835 feet), Thotupola Mountain (7,737 feet), Hakgala Mountain (7,110 feet) and Namunukula Mountain (6,667 feet).

Moon Plains looks a bit like Horton Plains, but unlike the excursion to Horton Plains which takes 6 to 8 hours, the trip to Moon Plains only takes about 2 hours. So if you don`t have a full day to spend on driving and hiking, Moon Plains is an excellent alternative to Horton Plains. It is best to get here early in the morning or in the afternoon as it is less hazy.

• Opening hours: 07 – 17:00 every day
• Ticket price: 50 Rupees for a local and 250 Rupees for a foreigner

7. Horton Plains

The Horton Plains National Park is bigger and more famous than Moon Plains and offers some great hiking opportunities over plateaus covered with grass, areas of thick forest, rock landscape, waterfalls, and lakes. Longer hikes are also possible, like the one to Mt Kirigalpotta and Mt Totapola.

The end of the plain, called World`s End, is an 880 m deep ravine and an excellent viewpoint overlooking tea plantation villages down below in the valley. You can even see all the way to the south coast on a clear day. The hike to World`s End is about 4 km, and with the loop to Baker` s Fall and back to the entrance, it adds up to 9,5 km, which takes about 3 hours to walk.

The thing about Horton Plains, however, is that it gets misty and cloudy from around 9 o’clock in the morning, so the best time to visit is early morning from 6 to 10 to beat the clouds. It is especially misty during the rainy season (April to September). Sundays and public holidays can be pretty crowded.

We only drove up to the gate of Horton Plains, and did not go inside the park nor did we do the walk to World`s End.

The reason for that was that the tickets are pretty expensive; 2175 Rupees/ person (14 USD) + 60 for the driver + 250 for the car + 1160 for service charge + 873 for tax! Yep, it adds up, for two people (one car) it will be 6550 Rupees.

It was also a Sunday and incredibly many tourists when we visited, so it would be like walking in a line like ants. Our driver was honest with us and said it was not worth the money. We had already seen the more peaceful and equally lovely Moon Plains. If you get there when it opens at 6, it might be worth it, otherwise, leave it.

If you are interested in doing scenic hikes, you should go walking  in the area around Ella  instead.

• Opening hours: 06 – 18
• Ticket price: 6550 Rupees for two people in one car

8. Dinner at Grand Indian

Grand Hotel has not only the best High Tea in town but also the best restaurant! The Grand Indian serves rich, delicious and spiced northern Indian food that melts in your mouth. The service is excellent too. Book a table in advance or expect to queue up for a table.

• Opening hours: 11 – 23
• Price range: Around 6-700 Sri Lankan Rupees = 4-5 USD for the main course
• TripAdvisor Reviews

How To Get To Nuwara Eliya

The most scenic way to get to Nuwara Eliya is by train. Nuwara Eliya is located between Kandy and Ella, and is on the famous train route named “ The Worlds Most Beautiful Train Ride”. 

There is, however, no train station in the center of Nuwara Eliya, but the train station Nanu Oya is only a 15-min drive with taxi or tuk-tuk from Nuwara Eliya.

So you can take the train from Kandy to Nanu Oya (and then take a taxi or tuk-tuk to Nuwara Eliya). This train ride takes about four hours and costs around 400 Rupees = us$2,5. There are two to three trains per day. You can check the trains for the date that you want to go to Nuwara Eliya in the  timetable search HERE (search from Kandy to Nanuoya).

The other option is to take the train from Ella to Nanu Oya (and then a taxi or tuk-tuk into Nuwara Eliya). This train ride takes about three hours and costs around 300 Rupees = us$2. There are five to six trains a day from Ella to Nanu Oya. You can check the timetable for the date that you want to go to Nuwara Eliya HERE (search from Elle to Nanuoya).

You should buy these train tickets in advance as this is a very popular train ride.

Another option is, of course, to hire a car and driver like we did. The drive from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya takes about three hours, while the drive from Ella to Nuwara Eliya takes about two hours.

“City of Light,” “City on the plain (table land)”,”Little England”, Nuwara Eliya, the small hill town tucked away among thousands of tea bushes really lives up to its many names and there are lots of nice things to do in Nuwara Eliya.

It is pretty incredible that one can travel just a few hours from the coast of Sri Lanka, from 38 degrees Celsius, and end up in a totally different climate zone where the temperature drops below freezing at night!

The lazy atmosphere, yet the posh vibe of high tea and colonial styled high-class hotels are also a great part of Sri Lanka’s history and culture, alongside the white sandy beaches and crystal clear water that this island is famous for.

We really enjoyed our four-day stay in Nuwara Eliya, although I must admit, it was colder than I expected so the next time I will bring more warm clothes! My mom even got a heavy cold and a sinus infection after Nuwara Eliya and its cold temperatures.

Where To Stay In Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya is a very popular place to visit, both for foreigners and local Srilankans, so there is plenty of accommodation for all budgets. Below are some of the best accommodation options in Ella , including the place we called home for 3 nights, Grand Camellia.

Heritance Tea Factory If you are looking for a special and unique hotel stay, the Heritance Tea Factory is a must-stay! It is a century old tea factory that has been converted into a boutique hotel, making it both a museum and a luxury hotel. Many of the old tea machinery is a part of the design. The service is excellent. The hotel also has two restaurants, with top-notch food. One of the restaurants is actually inside an old steam train carriage! How cool is that?! The hotel is located a 30-minute drive north-east of Nuwara Eliya. Click for latest prices

Ferncliff This is also a pretty unique place, with its spacious lush garden and colonial style bungalows with vintage furniture that date back to the British time. It feels like being back in the British era! The staff is super friendly and serves delicious food. They only have a few bungalows, so book well in advance. Click for latest prices

The Blackpool Hotel Located above and a little outside of the busy main street of Nuwara Eliya, this hotel has great views and is located in a more quiet area of Nuwara Eliya. It actually has an infinity swimming pool and a fireplace! The restaurant is famous for its delicious food. Click for latest prices

Grand Hotel One can not visit Nuwara Eliya without stepping into Grand Hotel, at least for their high tea and dinner in one of their excellent restaurants like the Indian restaurant. The hotel is very British and I`m sure it looked like this even back in the Ceylon time. This hotel has it all, big green lawns, a reading lounge, billiard rooms, a British pub, and even a tea salon. Some of the rooms are a little tired and could do with a refresh. Click for latest prices

Grand Camellia We stayed here February 2017. Grand Camellia is a brand new hotel, opened in autumn 2016, and has spacious modern rooms. The hotel is located on the hillside above Nuwara Eliya and has a great view over Gregory Lake, although it is a bit outside of Nuwara main road so a tuk-tuk is best when you want to go into town. The staff is very friendly and the food is good. They gave us breakfast boxes with delicious sandwiches and fruits when we had to get up early to go on our trip to Moon Plains. Click for latest prices

Heaven Seven Hotel Nuwara Eliya Located on the hill overlooking the city center of Nuwara Eliya, this hotel has a great view of both the tea plantations and the town itself. Many of the rooms have a balcony where you can sit and enjoy the view of Nuwara Eliya. Click for latest prices

Heidi`s Home Charming little guesthouse a few minutes drive from Nuwara Eliya town, or a 15-minute walk. Nicely decorated rooms and good breakfast, and awesome beds. It is a bit quirky property, located in a very green and lush garden. Click for latest prices

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39 Comments

This part of Sri Lanka looks so beautiful! I’ve never been but I would love to go to a tea factory and then high tea.

It sure is beautiful, but cold! We were actually a bit surprised that it was below zero in the evening and night and had not brought enough warm clothes with us. My mom even got a cold after freezing so much in Nuwara Eliya. 🙁

Nuwara Eliya is all about tea, and I really loved the high tea at Grand Hotel! A real must if you ask me.

Thank you so much for commenting! Happy travels!

Hi Maria, Thanks for writing another lovely article about my mother land Sri Lank. Yea Nuwara Eliya is one of the fascinating places to visit in Sri Lanka which is distant from the tropical beaches which surrounds this beautiful pearl of the Indian Ocean. Hope you had a great stay!!

Hi Shadini,

We had an amazing time in Nuwara Eliya and the rest of Sri Lanka on our trip in February. You are lucky who live in such a beautiful country!

Love your blog, by the way! So much nice travel info and tips about Sri Lanka. On our next trip to Sri Lanka, we plan to visit the north and east, like the Jaffna and Trincomalee area. Have you been to these parts?

Happy travels!

A solo girl is travelling to Ella and Nanu Oya in end December Christmas.

Thank you for all the wonderful ariticles and sharings. I cant wait to see them for myself.

But, do u think it is safe to engage driver/ guide when i am alone? I am a bit worry. Wonder how should i travel around the places when i am alone. Is tuk tuk ok?

Many thanks, Grace Kor

Thank you so much! Awesome that you are going to Ella and Nuwara Eliya/ Nanu Oya at Christmas!

Yes, I would say that it is safe to hire a private driver/ guide in Sri Lanka on your own. Of course, it depends on the driver.

We had Sadun as our guide and driver for three weeks, and he was excellent and such a nice and polite guy. He speaks good English, has been a guide in Sri Lanka for over 25 years, and lives in Kandy with his family and daughter. You can hire and contact Sadun here (at TourHQ) . I highly recommend him!

Tuk-tuk is safe and ok for shorter distances and within Colombo, but for longer distances, you should hire a car and driver. Ask at the hotels that you are staying at, all hotels have lists of reliable drivers (both tuk-tuk and taxi) that they recommend and can contact on your behalf.

Have a fantastic Christmas trip to Sri Lanka! I’m sure you will have an amazing time! The Sri Lankan people are extremely welcoming and friendly.

Hi Maria, thanks for all the lovely comments about our blog 🙂 . Yea we are lucky to have such a beautiful country with so much bio-diversity in it. Its nice to hear that you guys are planning your next trip to those parts of Sri Lanka. Well we visited Trincomalee early this year and there are some nice tropical beaches over there. Specially Pigeon Island and the Beach at Nilaveli are some of the beautiful places in Trinco. However we haven’t visited Jaffna recently and planning to visit Jaffna in the coming months.

Happy travels!!

Hi Maria, We’re off to Sri Lanka in June and I’m really enjoying your posts! We have 2 nights/3 days to play with after visiting Kandy and are trying to decide whether to go to Ella or Nuwara Eliya? Which would you recommend? Thanks, Vicky

Thank you so much! Glad you find our Sri Lanka articles useful!

Regarding Ella or Nuwara Eliya, it depends on what you are looking for. Ella city center is not so nice and basically nothing to see or do. There are much more to see in Nuwara Eliya town itself compared to Ella. As for hiking, Ella is more beautiful and pristine in my opinion. You can stay the 2 nights in Nuwara Eliya and do a day-trip to Ella if you want to see both, as it only takes 2 hours to drive between these two towns. Or you can do Ella on your way down to the south coast.

Have a great trip to Sri Lanka!!

I have a few business ventures in the pipeline and I’m hoping to visit Sri Lanka late next year if they all work out. This is a great comprehensive post. I like your writing style – keep up the good work!

Hi Raymond,

Cool! You should definitely head over to Sri Lanka, I`m sure you will love it. It has become one of our favorite countries, one that we keep coming back to over and over again!

Thanks for commenting! Happy travels!

Dear Maria,

Many thanks for all these useful tips about Sri Lanka. We are planning to visit the country and follow your two week-itinerary advice. We are only hesitating due to weather forecast since we would like to go there 2 weeks in middle of november. Would you recommend it if our plans are also to sunbath on the beautiful beaches?

Great to hear that you plan to take inspiration from our two week itinerary!

The Yala Monsoon (rainy) season is from May till August, so November is a shoulder season. I would say that November is a good month to travel to Sri Lanka, as the prices on accommodation will be lower and there will be lesser tourists than December – March (high season).There might be some rain in November, but very little as the rainy season usually ends in August. So you should be fine sunbathing at the beaches on the south and west coast of Sri Lanka. Our recommended itinerary will be perfect to do in November.

The east and north part of Sri Lanka is, however, usually wet in October till January (The Maha Monsoon Season). So you should skip the beaches on the east coast in November.

Have a great trip to Sri Lanka!

Thank you for the lovely write up on your Sri Lankan trip! Loved every bit of it.. 🙂 Was looking for recco’s on tea tasting at the plantations in Nuwara Eliya and that’s how I landed up in your page. Kudo’s to include many tips for the first time traveller to Lanka. 🙂 Your posts have allowed us to include few more places into our itinerary .

We will be travelling in two weeks! Do you have any recommendations for the tour operators (guide/driver who can take us along the island)? Someone you have been in touch with during your stay over there.

Will be greatful to hear back from you!

Here’s looking forward to more of your lovely travel stories! ?

Thank you soooo much! So happy to hear that you find our Sri Lankan itinerary useful!

We had a really nice driver and guide on our recent trip to Sri Lanka in February 2017, he drove us around Sri Lanka for two weeks. His name is Sadun, and you can reach him through his web page: http://www.naturetrailsknucklestours.com . He does all kinds of sightseeing trips and will happily show you all the highlights of Sri Lanka.

Have an amazing time in Sri Lanka!

Hi Maria, First of all congrats on your AMAZING blog, I am really happy I found it searching info about Sri Lanka. Love everything about it, the writing, the looks. We are heading to SL for 7 days at the beginning of April. We will spend a couple days in Sigiriya and then head to Nuwara Eliya for 1 night, Ella for 1 night and then down south to Mirissa and Galle. We are taking a train ride from Nuwara to Ella. I am worried our itinerary is going to be too tight to do a couple hikes in the Nuwara / Ella region. I am really interested in walking around / doing a hike through the tea plantations, interact with the people (I am a photographer). I have read you recommend doing the hikes from Ella, is that correct? Should we spend the 2 nights in one place (Nuwara or Ella) or spend 1 in each place? Thanks in advance for your help! Patrick (From Spain)

Hi Patrick,

Thank you so much! So glad to hear that you find our articles about Sri Lanka useful when planning your trip!

The difference between Nuwara Eliya and Ella is that Nuwara Eliya is a bigger city, with more to see and do in the city itself. Nuwara Eliya has more cafes, nice restaurants and a big lake (Gregory Lake) with a beautiful park. It is great fun walking around the lake in the evening, meeting locals, and having some snack or dinner at one of the food stalls. Nuwara Eliya also has a nice botanical garden (Victoria Park) and some beautiful colonial old houses which are nice to visit. Since you are a photographer and wants to interact with the locals, I think you will find Nuwara Eliya great for that. Especially if you are there during a weekend, as the locals are out in the park and by the lake on Sundays.

Both Ella and Nuwara Eliya are located in the middle of huge tea plantations, so you can easily go for walks and hikes through the tea plantations at both places. As for longer and more challenging hikes, the most famous and popular one in Nuwara Eliya is Horton Plains National Park to a place called World`s End (a 9,5 km hike altogether which takes about 3 hours). It is pretty popular and there can be a lot of tourists, it also takes a while to drive to the entrance to the National Park. Pluss the entrance fee is expensive. April is not a good month either to go hiking in Nuwara Eliya as there will be misty and you will not be able to see much. So you should skip hiking in Horton Plains as you don`t have much time and it will not be nice for photographing due to the mist and rain.

You could stay one night in Nuwara Eliya and enjoy the city and go for a walk in the tea plantations. And then spend one night in Ella, and do some hiking in Ella. You can, for instance, do the hike to Little Adam`s Peak in Ella , it only takes a couple of hours, before you drive to Mirissa/ Galle. Bring a warm jacket, a hat, gloves and a scarf as Nuwara Eliya is cold in the evening (5-10 degrees Celsius).

Have a great trip to Sri Lanka in April!!

Thank you for the information. We are excited to go in April. I hope it’s not too cold in April. What is your travel advice for us?

Thank you so much! Happy to hear that our post about Nuwara Eliya could be of help to you when planning your trip in April!

April is a great month to visit Nuwara Eliya and the Hill Country of Sri Lanka. The best time to visit this part is December – May. April is a shoulder season and the best time of the year to get good weather throughout the country. In Nuwara Eliya, the day temperature is normally around 15-22 degrees Celsius, but it falls down to 7-9 degrees in the night. So bring a warm jacket and scarf and you will be fine. Most hotels in Nuwara Eliya has a heater in the rooms.

Srilankans do, however, celebrate New Years in mid-April, so the public transport can be a bit packed as many visit their family and friends.

Have a great trip to Sri Lanka in April!

First and foremost, many thanks on a great travel blog! I am Swedish but I’ll write you in English so that more people can benefit from your reply 🙂 We will be traveling to Sri Lanka in two days already and realized we might have made our itinerary a bit too tight, so I wanted to check som points with you.

Our initial plan was to head directly yo Nuwara Eliya with a driver spend one night, enjoy the tea plantations and then take the train to Ella and spend two nights. Google maps says Colombo to Eliya is 4 hours but reading on different blogs it seems to be more like 5-6 hrs. Therefore, we checked if it would be faster/cheaper/more convenient taking the train via Kandy but not stopping there. What would you consider the best option? Our plan in Ella is to do little Adam’s Peak and another hike. The next stop is Udawawale for one night and safari and then Tangalle. All our hotels are pre-booked and I am getting worried it is too optimistic if the first part fails.. what is your best guess/recommendation?

Thanks in advance, Ellen

Tusen takk for hyggelige kommentar! Så kult at du skal til Sri Lanka! 🙂 I will continue in English…

Your itinerary looks great! You will cover the highlights of Sri Lanka in my opinion.

I think it will be faster and more convenient to hire a car and driver and go directly from Colombo International Airport to Nuwara Eliya. It takes 1-2 hours to get from the airport and into Colombo city to the train station, and then the train ride Colombo Fort – Nanuoya (the closest train station to Nuwara Eliya) takes 6,5 hours (express train). And there are only three trains each day, all in the morning, so you will have the stress of getting to the station on time. You can search for train times HERE (search from Colombo Fort to Nanuoya). The train ride will be cheaper, no doubt, but not faster and definitely not more convenient, especially if you are coming directly from Sweden and have a jetlag. 🙂

I recommend that you stick to your original plan and take a car and driver from the airport to Nuwara Eliya directly. My guess is that this drive will take around 5-6 hours and that the total ride with a taxi from the airport into Colombo + train to Nanyoya + taxi into Nuwara Eliya will take about 9-10 hours.

Ha en fantastisk tur til Sri Lanka!! Kos dere masse i sol og varme! 🙂

Hilsen Maria

Great article. I would love to visit there someday. Do you know of some places in the US that sell Nuwara Eliya tea? Thanks, Thomas

Thank you so much! You can look for the Dilmah brand, it is a Sri Lankan brand with tea from the Nuwara Eliya area. They sell it on Amazon so you can order it from there if you want.

I love the Dilmah tea, it is my favorite tea brand. Hope you find some that you like too. Happy tea drinking! 🙂

Hi! I love your blog! I found it looking for an itinerary for Sri Lanka, and your suggestions helped me a lot. We’ll visit Nuwara Eliya and other places you recommended this December and can’t wait! Thank you for sharing your knowledge. Let’s keep exploring!

Hi Christina,

Thank you so much! Great to hear that you found our articles about Sri Lanka helpful when planning your Sri Lanka trip!

Have a fantastic time in Sri Lanka in December, and enjoy beautiful Nuwara Eliya and the tea plantations! 🙂

Hi Maria …Loveddd the article …so detailed …just amazing itinerary. We are looking at a Weligama resort by Marriott … Would you recommend staying there vs in Galle …looks like both are in close proximity to each other?

Also how would you fit Adam’s peak/Sri pada into the itinerary? ..meaning would you go there in the beginning or in the end? Is it worth it with a 2 yr old baby and where would you stay for Adam’s peak?

Thank you so much!

Weligama Bay Resort by Marriott is located an hour drive from Galle (one way), so I would say that it is not that close. But, of course, it is perfect to head for a day trip to Galle from Weligama Bay Resort. It depends on what you want. Weligama Bay Resort is right by the beach and is a big resort with a huge swimming pool as well. While if you choose to stay in Galle (the old town Galle Fort), the hotels are small and intimate (more like small cozy boutique hotels) and few of them has a swimming pool. If you stay in Galle you will have to go for a 10 min tuk-tuk/ taxi ride to get to the closest beach Unawatuna.

As for Adam´s Peak, it is close to Nuwara Eliya/ Ella, so you should head there before or after. The closest place to stay is at Dalhousie. The climb up to Adam´s Peak is 7 km, but it is pretty steep uphill all the way (in stairs) so I don´t think it´s suitable for a 2-year-old. Instead, you could opt for the Little Adam´s Peak in Ella . It is a very nice little walk with awesome views!

Thank you for this post! Really looking forward to visiting here in a few days now. 🙂

Thank you for commenting, Barrett! Awesome that you are visiting Nuwara Eliya in just a few days! Have a great time in this beautiful little city in the Hill Country!

Wowo such a great post, good tips and knowledge of the options in the area 🙂 Thanks for it, really made me feel like going to Nuwaya Eliya 🙂

PS – Question without having checked before. I heard that Nuwara Eliya meant “capital of outside” and is kind of close to Kandy. Eliya in sinhala (depending on wher you put the accent) can mean “light” and “outside – out”. What do you think?

Best from Spain

Thanks a million!!! So happy to hear that you like our article about Nuwara Eliya! It is such an amazing little city, I loved it! It has a surprisingly chilly climate, though, even for us Norwegians….hehe.

Yeah, I´ve heard the same, that Nuwara Eliya means “city of light” or “city on the plain (table land)”. But Sadly I don´t speak any Sinhala or Tamil who are the main languages of Sri Lanka, so I don´t know. But it sounds logical that it can also mean “capital of outside”, like you say, since Nuwara Eliya is not that far from the old capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy.

Nuwara Eliya was founded by an English explorer, Sir Samuel Baker, and was called “Little England” back when Sri Lanka was a colony of Britain (1815 – 1948).

So cool that you are from Spain, I love Spain, especially Barcelona! 🙂

All the best, Maria

Hi Maria , Thank you very much for your amazing legendary post. I also Sri Lankan ; but I got lot of things from your posts!!!! Hope you visit Sri Lanka again with your friends!!! Thank you again .???????????????????????????????????????????????????? ????????

Hi Dhanushka,

Thank you so much! Really appreciate it! ????❣️Your country is so beautiful and the Sri Lankan people is the most fantastic, friendly, and welcoming people we have ever met. Can´t wait to be back in Sri Lanka, our favorite country. We are planning on coming back to Sri Lanka at the end of this year.

All the best, and lots of love ❤️ Maria

Hi Maria, Your blog is super informative. Thank you so much for that.

Thanks a million! I really appreciate it! ❤️???? Thank you for commenting!

I am traveling Sri Lanka next month and I am sure this might come in handy. Thank you so much!

Have a fantastic trip to Sri Lanka, Shameem! I’m sure you will have a wonderful trip to this beautiful country!

Thanks for commenting!

Hi, I’m from Heidi’s Home Sri Lanka and we believe that u all are just fine.Hope u can remember us and Tks a lot for mentioning about us in ur nice blog.if u come on this some day looking forward to meet u all. Be safe and healthy! Regards from Heidi’s family

Hi Heidi’s Home,

Thank you so much! Can’t wait to come back to beautiful Sri Lanka when this Covid-19 pandemic is over!

Take care and stay safe!

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The mountain town of Nuwara Eliya came into being when it was discovered by the British in the 19th century. The British turned it into a quaint town, which mimicked life back in England. Much of the city’s history is therefore linked with events from the colonial era. However, like much of Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya too has a mythical past that is rather intriguing. Find out more by exploring the tales of Nuwara Eliya below.

Sri Lanka’s Own ‘Little England’

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7 Amazing Things to Do in Nuwara Eliya (2024) – Sri Lanka’s Little England!

Nuwara Eliya was truly a magical stop in Sri Lanka.

It was emerald green tea leaves for days, cascading waterfalls, and quaint colonial buildings which made me feel like I was at home in the UK.

You can tell why they call it Sri Lanka’s little England as soon as you arrive.

The weather is freezing, it rains more often than not and there are tonnes of Colonial-style buildings dotted all over the place. Even the tea plantations are named after English cities and counties!

I was lucky enough to land in Nuwara Eliya on a super warm and clear day which was quite rare in October.

Apparently, it had been raining for weeks. So, I rushed straight outside to enjoy it in the sunshine.

Here are the top things to do in Nuwara Eliya: Sri Lanka’s little England!

Table of Contents

Here are the top things to do in Nuwara Eliya!

1. visit one of the many tea plantations.

One of the main reasons that people visit this area of Sri Lanka is to visit one of the many tea plantations.

As soon as you step off the train you are immersed in miles and miles of tea leaves.

It’s endless, with plantations quite literally moulding into each other.

There are so many tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya to visit, that you may be stuck for choice. So, visit a few!

Most of the plantations offer free tours and, even better, FREE TEA! The reason for doing this is because all the tourists exit through the gift shop and literally will be piling boxes of tea bags into their baskets. But, you’re not obligated to buy.

The most famous tea plantation in Nuwara Eliya is Pedro but I didn’t visit this one.

I went to Mackwoods, which has more recently been taken over by Labookellie, and Bluefields which had good reviews.

By far my favourite was Labookellie as not only did you get limitless free tea, but you also got a piece of chocolate cake for 100 rupees! It was heaven.

2. Sample some Ceylon tea

It would be criminal to visit Sri Lanka and not sample Ceylon tea and even more so in Nuwara Eliya where most of the leaves grow!

Here is the perfect place to nab a taste as it’s all free and fresh from the source.

But, be warned, you may find that you get caffeine shakes from so much tea.

I think after my fifth cup of tea, I called it a day. There can be such a thing as too much tea, even for a Brit!

3. Chase waterfalls

There are many waterfalls in Nuwara Eliya to go and visit but there are only a few which are really worth visiting. 

I personally decided to visit Ramboda falls as it was recommended by my rickshaw driver.

Typical that it had to have one of the hardest treks to reach it (well, for me anyway).

I had a bad ankle at the time and so walking up and down the jagged, uneven staircase was a challenge indeed.

Luckily, my rickshaw driver came to the rescue and quite literally assisted me by holding my hand the whole way up and down.

I felt like I was around 90 years old but was thankful when I got to experience seeing the beautiful falls at the end!

Other falls in the area of note are Lovers Leap, Glen falls, and Bomburuella.

4. Visit the Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya for High Tea

A favourite pastime of the British is to have a spot of afternoon tea and in Nuwara Eliya, it’s no different.

I absolutely loved experiencing having tea at the Grand Hotel.

There’s something so luxurious about taking an hour or so out of your day and immersing yourself in a tea room.

Despite the high tea looking absolutely scrumptious, I personally didn’t have it as I arrived quite late in the afternoon.

I was determined to save my appetite for dinner at their Grand Thai restaurant (which was amazing by the way).

But, I did sample one of the famous white teas which are famous in the area.

I loved the Grand Hotel so much that I came back the following day for a tea mocktail called the Ceylon Prince.

It was a white tea with a twist of lemon and ginger.

The Grand Hotel’s tea selection is truly vast and, if you have the time and the money, I’d recommend sampling a few of their creations.

5. Stroll around Lake Gregory

I had a stroll over here to take in the views around Gregory Lake but I was highly disappointed by it.

Maybe it was the weather and the fact it was such a dreary rainy day but I felt it was nothing to write home about.

It is quite a cool place though as there is boating, cafés, and all sorts of activities happening around this part of the town.

Hopefully, when you go there, there will be some sunshine to enjoy it!

6. Trek Horton Plains

I didn’t personally do this but I heard that this trek is a magnificent one!

You will have to get up super early (around 5 am) to see anything before the clouds, rain and mist come in but the views look totally worth it.

It’s situated around 32 kilometres from Nuwara Eliya so make sure you pre-plan your taxi/rickshaw to take you there for sunrise!

7. Feel like you’re in the UK

It was quite surreal for me to spend a few days in Nuwara Eliya.

The climate was obviously quite familiar (it’s always cold and rainy at any point of the year in the UK), we also drink copious amounts of tea, but it was all the colonial buildings and greenery for miles that threw me.

The one thing that I really miss when I’m in Asia is being amongst fresh luscious fields and forests. 

It felt so comforting to breathe in the cool, fresh air.

How to reach Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya is a popular stop between Ella and Kandy to break up the famous hill train journey.

If you are getting the train you can alight at Nanu-Oya station and catch a Tuk Tuk (3-wheeler) to your hotel.

It’s good to note that Nuwara Eliya is a BIG place. So, it’s worth checking where your hotel is before booking.

Otherwise, you may find yourself away from all the action.

Check out my Sri Lanka train travel tips here  or see my Ella travel guide here !

Where to stay in Nuwara Eliya

In terms of places to stay, I would pick a nice warm hotel. I can’t tell you how cold it gets, especially after the rains come in.

I’m not sure why, but all I found on Booking.com were bad reviews for a lot of hotels in Nuwara Eliya. All reported cold rooms and old buildings.

Plus, the prices seemed to be much more expensive than that of Kandy or Ella.

So, if you are after quality accommodation, I would personally recommend a place called ‘City Apartment’ where I stayed.

This was a beautiful new apartment in the centre of town which had two rooms and all the facilities you could ask for.

There was hot water, a nice thick warm blanket, a kitchen, a TV, fresh flowers, and everything you need to make it your temporary home in the hills.

For rates, you can see here . For luxury end accommodation, I would recommend staying at the iconic Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya or the Heritance Tea Factory .

Transport options for exploring Nuwara Eliya

As I mentioned before, Nuwara Eliya is a district.  Although there is a town which acts as a centre, everything is spread out.

That means that to get to some of the things to do in Nuwara Eliya you will need to hire a taxi or your own motorbike to easily get around.

I personally grabbed a rickshaw from the train station, dropped my stuff off in my apartment, and headed straight out with the same driver for my tour (just because it was sunny!).

A full day of sightseeing which included A LOT of driving around and a chaperone service which saved my life for the waterfall trek cost me around 1500 rupees (£8). A pretty reasonable deal for a full-day tour.

Final Words…

Nuwara Eliya is a must-stop in Sri Lanka in my opinion.

Not only was the scenery and natural beauty absolutely stunning, but it was also really interesting to learn about one of Sri Lanka’s biggest export; Tea!

Even if you’re just here for one night, it’s definitely worth checking out. Just make sure you have a cup of tea and chocolate cake for me too, okay?!

Recommended Travel Resources

Hotels: Booking.com

Transport: RentalCars.com

Trips & Tours: GetYourGuide

Travel Insurance: World Nomads

eSIM: Holafly

Download it on your phone

You can get this itinerary on your phone with GPSmyCity.

Read more of my Sri Lanka travel guides

If you liked these things to do in Nuwara Eliya, read more of my guides on Sri Lanka;

My ULTIMATE Sri Lanka Bucket List 

The top places to visit in Galle Fort

Top things to do in Mirissa

Why you need to visit Kandy

Why you should visit Ella

Tips for hiking up Sigiriya Rock

The ancient town of Polonnaruwa

My ultimate Udawalawe Safari guide

A complete guide for the Sri Lanka South Coast

Kandy to Ella Train guide

Discover Sri Lanka

Save these things to do in Nuwara Eliya for later!

Sophie Pearce is the founder of Third Eye Traveller. Always having a restless soul seeking adventure, she has now travelled to over 30+ countries, many of them solo. Leaving her heart in India, which gifted her a "Third Eye", she felt inspired to share her travel stories in the hope of encouraging others to find their inner magic and explore this beautiful world of ours. Even if it's on their own!

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13 comments.

What an amazing and a fascinating place to visit. I really didn’t know much about Sri Lanka but after reading this post I will surely visit one day. Thanks for sharing such an amazing post.

Thanks Kim! It’s truly a fascinating country and you have to visit one day! Thanks for reading. Sophie x

Simply breathtaking photos you have captured of Sri Lanka and thank you for sharing! I happened to visit Nuwara Eliya too in May 2016 with my fiance, and it was by far one of my favorite visits because of the remarkable views and our good choice of a hotel to stay at.

Hi Mani, thanks for stopping by and for your kind words. That’s amazing you went there. I loved Nuwara Eliya and would love to go back! Sophie x

This is the first time I’m hearing about a place called “Nuwara Eliya”. I’ll be sure to check it out if I’m ever travelling there.

Yes, it’s an incredible stop in Sri Lanka! You’d love it! All the best, Sophie x

Great post on Nuwaraeliya Sri Lanka

Thanks so much, Rasika, glad you loved the post. Sophie x

I am off there in a few weeks, and was expecting it to be quite warm there. But you said that you were freezing – could you elaborate on the temperature please? Thanks Lynne

Hi Lynne, I went in October and as Nuwara Eliya is up in the hills, it’s freezing cold at night time and rains often. The temperatures were similar to England where it’s cold, wet and windy! But, if you head here on a sunny day it will be a bit warmer. For example, today is 17 degrees Celsius and sunny. In October there is a high of 20 degrees Celsius and a low of 12 degrees celsius. Although for a Brit 20 degrees sounds warm, for Asia it felt a lot colder. Hope this helps. Sophie x

We are planning to go Nuwara Eliya from Colombo what’s the best transport we could take and you think 3nights would be good to stay in Nuwara Eliya? Sept.13th we arrive in Colombo. If you have any contact for taxi that would help.

Thanks, Karyn

Hi Karyn, it looks like you can get a train directly from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya! The bible of train travel is the man in seat 61 and he has a post all about it here https://www.seat61.com/colombo-to-tea-country-by-train.htm I would look for advice here. Or, you can stop in Kandy and then take the Kandy to Ella train that stops there. You can take a taxi but unfortunately, I don’t have a contact! There is the option to book through travel offices but the trains are so efficient. I hope this helps. Have a great time and thanks for stopping by. Sophie x

If some one need cheap and best Taxi/Transport or travel guide from Colombo to Nuwara-eliya or where ever inside Sri Lanka please email me or whtasapp me [email protected] MOB:+97477067355

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Nuwara Eliya: The ‘Little England’ of Sri Lanka

• July 23, 2021
• 8 minute read

Of Ceylon tea, winding roads, lush green valleys, velvety green tea plantations, tiny streams, beautiful misty mountains and dreamy waterfalls, that’s what a perfect getaway in Nuwara Eliya looks like.

Located 180 kilometers from Colombo in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya gives travelers a break from the obsessive heat and humidity that surrounds the rest of the island country. The picturesque landscape, temperate climate, and tea valleys make it a dream destination for photographers and tea connoisseurs alike.

Known as the ‘Little England’ of Sri Lanka, ‘City of Lights’ and ‘City on the Plain’, tourists and locals have given this hill too many names.

Down memory lane

The cool, quaint little hill retreat gained popularity during the British rule. Back then, the area was lost in wilderness comprising of only forests and jungles. However, the hill area was discovered by John Davy back in 1819 who decided to build a sanatorium here.

The cool climate made Nuwara Eliya an escape for the British as well as a ‘home away from home’ for them. When the south of Sri Lanka would get warmer, they would often spend their time in Nuwara Eliya. From growing English vegetables and fruits to spending time playing golf, cricket and polo, they thoroughly enjoyed their stay up there. During the 18 th century, they even grew coffee plantations, however, when it suffered a disease, they switched to tea.

Even today, the buildings, surroundings, and architecture ooze colonialism, British-feel attached to them thus keeping with the town’s untouched heritage.

Getting there

If incredible scenic views are on your bucket list, Nuwara Eliya is the place to head. Situated among the most beautiful tea estates, it is fairly easy to reach from Colombo. Typically, there are two main routes to get to there – via Kandy or via Hatton.

To make the most out of your holiday, traveling by car/taxi would be the most preferred option. The roads are narrow and bumpy, but that’s what truly makes the journey exciting and memorable. Via A5 highway, starting from Colombo via Katunayake Expressway will take you roughly 5 hours to reach Nuwara Eliya. However, the plus point of traveling by road is that you have plenty of sightseeing spots to stop at on the way. This is the most expensive option and will cost you $76 for a sedan vehicle.

If you’re a traveler on a budget, take a bus. Buses going to Nuwara Eliya from Colombo leave hourly. To reach Nuwara Eliya, a bus from Colombo can be taken to either Kandy or Hatton. Taking a bus to Hatton would cost $5 while and $3 to Kandy. Once travelers reach Hatton or Kandy, an intercity bus can be taken to Nuwara Eliya, which should cost only $2.

Firstly, Nuwara Eliya has no railway station. If you wish to travel by train, you will have to reach Nanu Oya railway station, and then take a bus or taxi from there to Nuwara Eliya. A second-class ticket from Colombo to Nanu Oya is $1.5. After getting off at the station, taking a bus would cost less than a dollar while a taxi would be a little more than a dollar.

Also Read:   Kick Back In Style At Kalkudah & Passekudah Beach In Sri Lanka

Best time to visit

Being a hill station, Nuwara Eliya has a consistent climate all year round. December through March is the best time to visit Nuwara Eliya. The nights are cold and even frost may occur. It is also the best time to enjoy the cold, intoxicating fresh air blowing from the high cloud-crowned Pidurutalagala range.

The rest of the year sees an average climate with the highest temperature going to 31 degrees. The months of April and May are considered very busy due to Sinhalese and Tamil New Year. Accommodation during this period is pretty hard unless you book months in advance. Though it is crowded, it is extremely colorful and vibrant.

If you don’t mind braving a little rainfall, the monsoon is also a beautiful time to visit Nuwara Eliya.

Language, People & Currency

30% of the population in Nuwara Eliya comprises of Tamils while the rest are all Sinhalese. English, Sinhalese, and Tamil are the languages spoken by most people there. The currencies accepted include Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) and US Dollar ($).

Accommodation

The colonial architectural style of Nuwara Eliya gives travelers plenty of options to stay. Every accommodation option is better than the other. Most hotels offer an old-world charm, panoramic vistas of the rugged mountains, and magnificent views of the lush green tea plantations.

For Honeymooners

Araliya Green Hills Hotel is an upmarket-style hotel in Nuwara Eliya. Warm rooms and suites oozing with old-world charm make it a romantic getaway for honeymooners and couples. Royal Cocoon is another interesting option. They have 7 luxury rooms that offer picturesque views of the hills and landscaped gardens. A stay for two per night at Araliya would cost $85 while Royal Cocoon is a slightly more expensive option costing about $115.

For Tea connoisseurs

Imagine waking up to a cool breeze, grand views, and a hot cuppa tea. Blissful, right? Nuwara Eliya is every tea lover’s paradise. If planning a visit to the tea plantations is on your travel log, staying at Heritance Tea Factory has you sorted. With a total of 54 rooms and two suites, Heritance will spoil you with their tastefully done interiors, old-world décor, dark wood and deep carpets. From executive to premium rooms, they make a holiday in the hills a truly magical experience. Rated among the most expensive options in Nuwara Eliya, a stay for two would cost $258 per night.

For Budget travelers

Whether you’re traveling with friends or family, we have scouted some of the best and affordable accommodation options in Nuwara Eliya. Spending $25 to $40 can give you a comfortable stay with decent views. We would recommend Silver Meir Holiday Bungalow, Royal Hills, Blue Meadows, and Alpine Hotel.

Traveler Tip

Book these hotels on partner websites to get the best deal. Also, don’t forget to clear your cookies before booking.

Also Read:  Galle, Sri Lanka: A Walk Down The Colonial Old Days

Sightseeing/Places of Attraction

Though Nuwara Eliya is known for its tea plantations, there are plenty of other things to do as well. From viewpoints to waterfalls to lakes, you’ll need a good two or three days to see the places of attraction around.

Gregory Lake

This man-made lake was created in 1873 by the British-era governor mainly for the purpose of providing electricity. However, soon after it was built, it started being used for leisure and recreation. When in Nuwara Eliya, visiting Gregory is a must. From swan-shaped boat rides to normal boat rides, pony rides along the shore, and water sports, there is a lot to do in and around.

Nuwara Eliya Golf Club

Founded in the year 1889, this is one of the oldest clubs in Asia. It is situated on the foot of the tea gardens. Whether you’re looking to have a friendly match with your friends or want to visit for evening tea, checking out this club should be on your list.

Galway’s Land National Park

This is one of the smallest and newest national parks in Nuwara Eliya . The park is situated within city limits and is a must-visit tourist spot. The park operates from 6 AM to 5 PM. The National Park is a habitat for 10 Sri Lankan endemics, Wild boar, Barking deer, and exotic birds. The entry fee is $10.

Victoria Park

The Park is spread across 27 acres and comprises 90% of tree species. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a large number of rare bird species. Entry to the park is free.

St. Clair’s Falls

Often referred to as the little Niagara of Sri Lanka, St. Clair’s fall is the wildest waterfall in Nuwara Eliya. Ample tourists visit every year. There are two waterfalls ‘ Maha Ella ’ and ‘ Kuda Ella ’. The former is at a height of 260ft while the latter is at 160ft. The waterfall is located at Tawalantenne – Talawakele Rd, Sri Lanka.

Visit the tea plantations

You cannot possibly miss a tour of the tea gardens. The Bluefield Factory and the Bluefield Tea Gardens are recommended tea plantations. It is a free guided tour that explains the entire tea manufacturing process. The owners even offer you free black and green tea samples. Towards the end of the tour, you will find a shop that sells all their in-house tea varieties. Compared to the tea available in the local shops, the tea sold here is quite pricey. Don’t be obliged to buy the tea here. However, if you feel like it, you may!

Also read:  Sri Lanka Travel-An Experience Like None

Horton Plains

The Horton Plains National Park offers some great hiking opportunities. It primarily comprises areas covered with grass, rock landscapes, dense forests, waterfalls, and lakes. It is located 1 hour from the main town. The end of the plain, called World’s End — is 880m deep and is an excellent viewpoint overlooking tea plantation villages down below in the valley. The best time to visit is between 6 and 10 in the morning. After 10, it gets extremely misty. Try to avoid the rainy season (April-September). The ticket cost is $14 per person. If you plan to drive, then you can hire a car and driver for an additional $5.

Where to Eat?

Food trips are the best kind of trips, right? Nuwara Eliya’s dining scene caters to local and international taste buds. We have chalked out some of our favorite restaurants that appease all palates and budgets.

Grand Indian

Or Grand Hotel not only has the best High Tea but also the best restaurant. As the name suggests, they serve a rich, creamy, and lip-smacking variety of Northern Indian food. From vegetable curries to meaty dishes, appetizers, and desserts, they spoil you with a choice. Make sure you go hungry. An average meal for two would cost $15.

The cool temperatures in Nuwara Eliya are going to make you really hungry. During your stay, if you crave wood fire pizzas, Salmiya has you sorted. They source their ingredients from Europe so you can expect a thorough Italian fare.

Offering a break from the local cuisine and western choices is Grand Thai, a full-fledged Thai restaurant. The date-like ambiance makes it perfect for honeymooners. The vibe is pretty laid back too. You can expect some authentic Thai dishes at pocket-friendly prices.

Queenswood Restaurant

Finding the place might be a struggle, but when you reach there, you’ll be more than thankful. With an ambiance that boasts of wooden furnishings, muted lights and more, you’re definitely in for a treat. Being an Asian fusion restaurant, they offer scrumptious pizzas, beefy curries, shawarma rolls, and more.

Other restaurants we would recommend include De Silva Food Centre, Heritance Tea Factory Restaurant, and Indian Summer Nuwara Eliya.

If visiting England is not within your budget, you can definitely make a trip to Little England ( Nuwara Eliya ). The charm, beauty, culture, and heritage will definitely engulf you and make you want to stay longer and worthwhile.

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M T W T F S S " onclick="window.open(this.href,'win2','status=no,toolbar=no,scrollbars=yes,titlebar=no,menubar=no,resizable=yes,width=640,height=480,directories=no,location=no'); return false;" rel="nofollow"> Print Nuwara Eliya is often referred to by the Sri Lankan tourist industry as ‘Little England’. E-Mail Us: [email protected] For further information Contact Us What to see Bird Watching View Points Water Falls Historical Places Tea Factories Agro Tourism Things to do Semic Beauty Experience / Nature How to Reach More Details Connect with us. All Rights Reserved by Nuwara Eliya Info 2016© Design and Developed by Transgress Top 11 Things See Nuwara... The Top Things to See and Do in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka Sri Lanka Hub Writer Nuwara Eliya, part of Sri Lanka ’s lush hill country , is blessed with a temperate winter, rolling green hills and a dramatic waterfall. Read on for the top things to see and do once you arrive. Known as Little England, because some British settlers built their holiday bungalows here, Nuwara Eliya offers plenty to do, from hikes and jet ski rides for the adventurous, to markets, farm visits and colonial-era architecture for pleasure seekers – and everyone should visit the tea estates . Your travel time from Colombo will be four to five hours if you drive, or about six hours if you take the train. Stay at the Grand Hotel Take a boat ride on Gregory Lake Park, Natural Feature Enjoy a stroll in Victoria Park Roam the winter market. Become a Culture Tripper! Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,200 on our unique trips.. See privacy policy . Check out the Post Office Post Office Eat strawberries at Adma Agro Farm Visit ambewela farm. Cafe, Farm Shop, Healthy Walk around the tea estates and see St Clair's Falls Natural Feature Take a hike on the Moon Plains Smell the flowers at hakgala botanical gardens. Botanical Garden Hike along the Horton Plains to World's End A trip to Nuwara Eliya wouldn’t be complete without a stay in one of the best cheap hotels in the city , or one of the best hotels in the area , bookable with Culture Trip. The Best Hotels to Book in Nuwara Eliya for Every Traveller The Best Cheap Hotels to Book in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka Culture Trip Summer Sale Save up to $1,200 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots. Post ID: 1812550 Sponsored? No View Payload Nuwara Eliya 1 Understand 2.1 By train 3 Get around 4.2 Ramboda town 7.2 Splurge 9.2 Mid-range 9.3 Splurge <a href=\"https://tools.wmflabs.org/wikivoyage/w/poi2gpx.php?print=gpx&amp;lang=en&amp;name=Nuwara_Eliya\" title=\"Download GPX file for this article\" data-parsoid=\"{}\"><img alt=\"Download GPX file for this article\" resource=\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" src=\"//upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f7/GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" decoding=\"async\" data-file-width=\"20\" data-file-height=\"20\" data-file-type=\"bitmap\" height=\"20\" width=\"20\" class=\"mw-file-element\" data-parsoid='{\"a\":{\"resource\":\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\",\"height\":\"20\",\"width\":\"20\"},\"sa\":{\"resource\":\"File:GPX Document rev3-20x20.png\"}}'/></a></span>"}'/> Nuwara Eliya is a city in the Hill Country of Sri Lanka . At 1,868 m (6,129 ft) altitude, its temperate climate gives the city a very different feel from other parts of the country. It has earned the name 'Little England' owing to its colonial architecture. Seven times daily there are trains coming from Colombo or Kandy , and they then proceed further to Badulla . The journey between Kandy and Ella is considered one of the most spectacular in the world. Book tickets well in advance, because unreserved coaches are well crowded. Buses can be taken from Colombo route #79 [ dead link ] , three times per day, six hours. Or from Kandy , every 20 minutes, 2½-3 hour trip. Be aware - road transport between Colombo and Nuwara Eliya is very slow. The journey will typically take five to six hours to cover the 180 km. Traffic, poor weather or failing light can extend the time needed. Rail transport is about the same due to the old and meandering track. 6.972 80.7673 2 Bus station . ( updated Dec 2016 ) The town centre is small enough to walk around. To visit sites further afield, take a bus or hire a three-wheeler. A tuktuk within town (e.g. from city center to Pedro Tea Factory) should cost around Rs 700 (2024). The same caveat applies to touring around the area as for getting there. Assume that you'll not exceed 20 km/m no matter what the mode of (ground) transport. So plan any excursions carefully, and don't assume that you can cover more than about 100 km in a day, including stops. 6.9575 80.7794 3 Lake Gregory ( less than a mile from the centre of town ). Large man-made lake, along the edge is a beautiful park, with water sports (paddle boats, jet ski rides and cruises) as well as other recreational activities. Offers a splendid and peaceful environment for sightseeing and boating. Boats can be hired from the area. Entrance to the Lake Gregory park Rs 200 . ( updated Dec 2016 ) 6.978484 80.78672 5 Lover's Leap waterfall . A beautiful 30-m-high waterfall. Legend has it that a prince and his lover jumped down this waterfall after the king prohibited their love. To get there, take a tuk tuk to Boralanda (before the turnoff to Pedro Tea Factory) for about Rs 700 from town centre. Start walking uphill to the left from there. After about 500 m, follow the sign to the left and stay on the path. You will reach the waterfall after another 2.5 km. Free . ( updated Aug 2024 ) 6.970002 80.793843 6 Pedro Tea Factory , ☏ +94 11 5 352225 . Daily 8-11AM, 2-4PM . Offers fascinating tours of a working tea factory. In the hills nearby there are paths through the tea plantations to wander along. You can visit the shop and stroll through the tea fields for free, or hire a guide for a tour. Free, or Rs 200 which includes a 30-minute tour and a cup of tea . ( updated Jan 2020 ) 6.9664 80.7778 7 Galway's Land National Park . A wildlife sanctuary on the edge of town which is great for bird watching. It's also the smallest Sri Lankan National Park and it's quite run down. ( updated Dec 2016 ) 6.925356 80.821846 8 Hakgala Botanical Garden , Peradeniya-Badulla-Chenkaladi Hwy ( 10 km southeast of the city ). 7:30AM-5:30PM . Large and impressive, just a short bus journey away. However, it's far smaller and less pretty than Botanical Garden in Kandy . Foreigners Rs 1500 .   The mountains in the central province of Sri Lanka and near to Nuwara Eliya are adorned with many picturesque waterfalls including Dunhinda Falls, Diyaluma Falls, Baker's Falls, St. Claire's Falls, Ravana Ella, Bambarakanda Ella, Aberdeen Falls, Laxapana Falls, and Bridal Falls. Ramboda town 7.042982 80.695669 9 Blue Field Tea Factory , ☏ +94 77 784 7847 . 9AM–6:30PM . Short 5-15 minutes excursion which is followed by a complimentary cup of tea, generally guide asks for a donation in the end. Overall, the entire process looks much more as a preparation for buying overpriced teas in their shop than the educational event. Visitors can proceed later to the tea plantation fields, which has a remarkable view over the valley. Free . ( updated Dec 2016 ) 7.0547 80.699896 10 Ramboda Falls . Big 108-m-high waterfall. Rs 20 . ( updated Dec 2016 ) Take a walk up through the tea plantations south-west of the town to the top of Single Tree Hill for a splendid view over Nuwara Eliya. From the hill top you can walk north for a couple of kilometres along the ridgetop to a nearby village and get a tuk-tuk/three-wheeler or walk back to town. Playing golf is also an option at 6.9697 80.766 1 Nuwara Eliya Golf , along with heading to the 6.963684 80.766391 2 racecourses (the only proper ones you'll find in Sri Lanka). These are both traditions left over from the colonial era. Take a train trip from Nanu Oya towards Kandy . For the colonial experience book a 1st class ticket in the observation car. For an authentic local experience book a 3rd class ticket and hang out of the door of the carriage. 6.97314 80.76674 1 De Silva Food . Possibly one of the best budget restaurants that takes care about hygiene and quality of the food. Extensive menu which mainly focuses on rice, noodle, burgers. Big portions. They also sell some sweets. Rs 250-500 per meal . ( updated Dec 2016 ) 6.9523 80.7848 2 Adma Agro ( at the far end of Lake Gregory ). Serves only strawberry-based dishes, using locally grown strawberries. Strawberry pancakes and pizzas Rs 400, strawberry drinks Rs 380-450 . ( updated Dec 2016 ) 6.973178 80.766604 3 Milano Restaurant . Just next door to De Silva, similar food, prices and quality. Serves pizza and Chinese dishes as well. ( updated Aug 2024 ) 6.972617 80.766689 4 Ambaal's pure vegetarian Hotel & Restaurant , 52 New Bazaar Road . Daily 7AM-10PM . Close to Milano and De Silva, this sprawling restaurant provides tasty authentic Indian food on three floors at good prices. ( updated Aug 2024 ) 6.9795 80.7639 5 St Andrews Hotel . Does a good buffet, described as a "fusion" of eastern and western tastes. ( updated Dec 2014 ) 6.9701 80.7635 6 The Hill Club . It is a special experience which will take you back almost 100 years. But you must dress for dinner. If you don't have a jacket and tie you can borrow from their collection. Food is excellent and served by waiters in national dress with white serving gloves. ( updated Dec 2014 ) 6.9684 80.7647 7 Grand Hotel . It does a great high tea. ( updated Dec 2014 ) 6.9675 80.7657 8 Grand Indian , at the Grand Hotel . It is possibly the best place in Nuwara Eliya to get good traditional Indian food. ( updated Dec 2016 ) Blue Moon Guest House , Ranasinghe Mawatha. Guest house with 4 bedrooms, dining area, and common sitting area. Friendly staff. US$15-20. Mount View Cottage ( is a small guesthouses with 4 rooms. Clean accommodation and is operated by honest people. They will arrange tours to Horton's Plains using the guesthouse's van for a reasonable amount of money (see section above ). From US$50/57 .   Growing Beyond Apartment - This is a clean apartment with 2 bed rooms, and can accommodate up to 5 people. TV, WiFi and hot water. Kitchen with cooking utensils provided. US$50/60. Contact 0777857546, 0777257584, 0777691391. 6.961 80.7666 1 The Bellwood Manor , 152 Badulla Road , ☏ +94 522 220 888 , toll-free: +94 70 727 1888 , [email protected] . Exclusive all-inclusive boutique hotel, founded the 1870s. starting at US$359 including taxes & surcharges .   Anilana Craig Bank , No: 48, Water Field Drive , ☏ +94 522 222 740 . Sitting just above Nuwara Eliya town, is a villa set within magnificent gardens that overlook the golf course and rolling hills. Ideal for groups of families and friends who will love its privacy and secluded yet central location. Designed by a Frenchman, the villa's European styling blends perfectly with the property's colonial atmosphere which harks back to a former era. US$660 per villa .   The Tea Factory Hotel , ☏ +94 52 5555000 , fax : +94 52 5555000 , [email protected] . Colonial-style rooms with views of the surrounding tea plantations. All the rooms (superior, premium or executive + suites) come with rain showers and baths. Over US$160 .   King Fern Cottage , 203/1A St Andrew's Drive, Nuwara Eliya , ☏ +94 77 358 6284 . Welcoming budget guesthouse with a friendly owner, large rooms with comfortable beds and en-suite bathrooms.   Spring Acre , 495 ( 5 minutes drive from Golf Course ), ☏ +94 725 94 66 13 . This tastefully furnished luxury holiday bungalow can accommodate up to 10 persons and has a breathtaking view of a tea estate and the Pidurutalagala mountain range. Over US$250 .   Langdale by Amaya , Radalla, Nanu Oya , ☏ +94 52 4924959 . Boutique resort. Escape to the cool mornings and crisp air of Randalla, a quaint hill station tucked in the mountain ranges of the central highlands. Over US$250 .   7.030227 80.848368 2 Scottish Planter Glendevon Bungalow , Kandapola Road, Ragala , ☏ +94 052 2265050 , [email protected] . This bungalow built from quaint stone, and its interior was inspired by Scottish architecture. Offers a spa, dining, personal butlers, and an in-house library. ( updated Jul 2017 ) Stafford Bungalow , Ragala, Halgranoya, Nuwara Eliya , ☏ +94 52 226 5287 , [email protected] . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . Starting from US$200 .   Badulla — final station on the railway road Colombo — capital Ella — beautiful mountains similar to Nuwara Eliya Horton Plains and World's End offer fascinating walks though this temperate mountain environment, with an 800-m vertical drop to be found at World's End. This travel guide to is a article. It has information on how to get there and on restaurants and hotels. An adventurous person could use this article, but please it . Has custom banner Has map markers Articles with dead external links Has mapframe Maps with non-default size Sleep listing with no coordinates Has Geo parameter Central Province (Sri Lanka) All destination articles Usable cities Usable articles City articles Pages using the Kartographer extension Navigation menu Destinations Nuwara Eliya Polonnaruwa Anuradhapura Trincomalee Key Experiences Beach Holidays Misty Mountains Watersports History and Culture Foodie Travel Back Packing Day Outings Private: Is Sri Lanka Safe? Traveller Posts On-Ground Updates Private: From The Journal Travel Advisory Status Planning a Trip to Sri Lanka Visa And Entry Requirements Getting About Suggestions On Packing Join the Alliance Is Sri Lanka Safe? Recent Media Coverage The Pekoe Trail Nuwara Eliya, meaning the City of Light, is located in the central province of Sri Lanka and is considered the most important region for tea production, with the coolest temperatures in the country, ranging from 10-21 degree celsius. Explore the tea estates, the lakes, picturesque landscapes and historic buildings as you discover the elegance and old school charm of Sri Lanka’s Little England. Top Things to Do From long walks through the bustling Victoria Park to a fun game of golf; there are plenty of things to do in Nuwara Eliya. Best Places For Solo Bird Watching Romantic Strolls Around The Island 5 Unique Ideas for a Proposal in Sri Lanka Conquer Sri Lanka’s Mountains By Yourself! A Ceylon Tea Adventure with your Family Romantic Ceylon Tea Adventures Attractions. Explore the hill country’s most treasured attractions during your holiday in Nuwara Eliya. Victoria Park Pedro Tea Estate Gregory Lake Horton Plains National Park Ambewela Farm Moon Plains Best experiences in nuwara eliya. Witness the beauty of Moon Plains or be surrounded by lush wilderness at Horton Plains National Parks; a variety of experiences await the keen explorer. 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Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as "Little England," boasts colonial-era buildings, Tudor-style hotels, well-maintained gardens, and a golf course, all of which contribute to its British-countryside feel. The town’s colonial legacy with quaint churches and the iconic red post office gives it a unique and tranquil ambience, taking you back in time. However, it is also very Sri Lankan, with water buffalos, green tea bushes everywhere, crazy traffic, the smell of Sri Lankan delicacies, and bustling markets. The town has numerous picturesque spots, including waterfalls, tea plantations, lakes, and peaks, all of which epitomise the essence of scenic beauty. Nuwara Eliya attractions are a blend of colonial heritage, scenic beauty, and vibrant local culture, offering a distinctive and enriching experience for travellers. Pedro Tea Estate Owing to its cool climate, Nuwara Eliya has several beautiful sprawling tea estates, one of them being Pedro Tea Estate. Situated in Pidurutalagala Peak, the estate is famous for cultivating pure Ceylon tea. You can visit the fields, interact with the workers, and even pick up some leaves with their assistance. Enjoy a twenty-minute guided tour of the 1885-built factory and marvel at the engineering feats of the 19th century. It is fascinating and informative to see where your morning cup of tea originates. There is an outdoor café where tourists can taste the freshly brewed tea. The lush greenery and aromatic air are a sensory experience, as well as one of the best Nuwara Eliya tourist attractions. Hakgala Gardens Among the five botanical gardens in Sri Lanka, Hakgala Gardens is the second-largest garden in the country. Part of the strict nature reserve, the botanical garden is spread over 28 hectares. Among many things to do in Sri Lanka , this beautiful, vibrant, and botanical garden in Nuwara Eliya offers a serene escape for nature lovers. The garden has a wide variety of plants and some animal species. The garden features sub-gardens such as the rose garden, Japanese garden, upper flower garden, and fernery, among others. Visitors can marvel at the beautiful collection of orchids, roses, ferns, and various medicinal plants. The garden's highlight is its extensive rose garden, where you can see a variety of roses in full bloom. In the spring, the garden blooms like a paradise, making it one of the most picturesque Nuwara Eliya tourist destinations. Horton Plains National Park The national park spans two mountains, Kirigalpotta and Totapola, in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. The park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and breathtaking viewpoints, making it a must for Nuwara Eliya places to visit. Wild grasslands, patches of thick forests, waterfalls, and misty lakes cover the plains, which form a plateau and span over 31 km. One of the park's iconic features is a sheer cliff that drops 880 meters into the valley below, offering dizzying views of the distant mountains and making you feel as if you are standing at the world's end. If you are lucky, you can spot a variety of wildlife on your hiking trails, such as sambar deer, purple-faced langurs, wild boar, and many bird species. It is one of the most beautiful World Heritage Sites and among the prime tourist places in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka. Seetha Aman Temple A small temple in the village of Seetha Eliya holds significant mythological value. If you are a believer, then you must add this place to your Sri Lanka tour packages . The temple is believed to have been built on the same site where King Ravana kept Devi Sita as a prisoner. This temple, located near Hakgala Botanical Garden, is the only one in the world dedicated to Sita Amman. The temple grounds have footprints of Lord Hanuman and the Seetha River, where different deities were recovered. This is the most famous temple in Nuwara Eliya owing to the place and its architecture, making it one of the best Nuwara Eliya attractions. Victoria Park Victoria Park, located in the heart of Nuwara Eliya, is renowned as one of the best-maintained parks in South Asia. Spanning over 27 acres, the park boasts well-manicured lawns, towering trees, and a variety of flowers and plants. The park features a children's playground and various rides, positioning it as one of the family-friendly places to visit in Nuwara Eliya town. Visitors can wander through the vibrant flower beds, which have seasonal blooms including roses, dahlias, marigolds, and more, adding bursts of colour to the landscape. The Nanu Oya River runs through the park, creating a number of small lakes. You can also see a number of rare bird species like the Indian Blue Robin, Pleaded Thrush, and Kashmir Flycatcher. This Nuwara Eliya tourist place is one of Sri Lanka's prettiest gardens, where you can relax and leisurely stroll. This bustling hub, known as the winter market, offers an extensive selection of winter wear. This market is one of the best Nuwara Eliya attractions, a haven for shopaholics and people looking to explore the local culture. Bale Bazar has a diverse array of winter gear, including cosy sweaters, jackets, scarves, gloves, and handbags, which cater to every style and budget. From traditional hand-knit sweaters to trendy wear and imported brands, the bazaar has a treasure trove of options. Additionally, Bale Bazar offers a wide range of household items, souvenirs, and local handicrafts. One of the prime Nuwara Eliya tourist destinations to experience local culture and immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere. Lover’s Leap Falls The fall has a single stream of water that cascades beautifully down a rocky surface, creating an ethereal sight. The fall is situated in Havaeliya, which is 2 km from Nuwara Eliya. The fall is associated with romantic folklore, making it one of the top Nuwara Eliya tourist places for couples. To reach the enchanting fall, you must hike through a tea estate, where an observation deck provides an optimal view of the waterfall. It is recommended to visit the waterfall during the monsoon season to witness its full force. The place gets its name from a tragic love story of a young couple that unfolds around the waterfall. The fall has a cool and misty atmosphere, perfect for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat as part of your Sri Lanka tour package for a couple . Post Office Nuwara Eliya's city centre is home to one of Sri Lanka's oldest post offices. Built in 1894 by Britishers, it is a two-story Tudor-style building replete with red bricks and a clock spire. The bright orange roof and the red bricks of the post office create a contrast against the beautifully maintained green lawns. Add this location to your Nuwara Eliya sightseeing tour and learn about the postal system of the British era. You can also spend a night at the post office, as there is tourist accommodation on the upper floor. The post office’s souvenir shop has pretty postcard and stamp collections, so this is one of the places to visit in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka if you are a history buff and stamp collector. Moon Plains A vast stretch of plain land with lush green grass in the centre of tea estates, forests, and mountains; this is among the newest places of attraction in Nuwara Eliya which opened in 2014. The location provides breathtaking views of the entire country at once. You can drive to the moon plains in a rented Jeep, as private vehicles are not allowed. The drive to the place is scenic, with potato fields and farms growing different kinds of vegetables, as well as a 360-degree view of many mountain peaks. The area is home to different animals like elk, wild buffaloes, leopards, deer, and many different birds. Adam’s Peak Located in Sri Pada Wilderness Sanctuary is a 2243-meter-tall conical-shaped mountain, Adam’s Peak. The mountain peak, which has footprints set in stone, is revered as a holy site by major religions around the world. Christians believe it is of St. Thomas, Muslims believe they are of Adam, Buddhists claim it is of Lord Buddha, and Hindus think they are of Shiva. People from all major religions and trekkers alike frequently visit one of the famous Nuwara Eliya tourist attractions. There are six treks, primarily composed of concrete and steps, with an average completion time of two to four hours. The top of the summit rewards people with enchanting views and a spectacular sight of thousands of beautiful butterflies. Nuwara Eliya is a destination unlike any other in Sri Lanka. Its cool climate, mountain peaks, colonial-style architecture, and beautiful nature make it one of Sri Lanka's most beautiful places. There are various Nuwara Eliya attractions ranging from many waterfalls, gardens, trekking sites, tea estates, and many more, making your trip memorable. If you're planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure you include Nuwara Eliya in your Sri Lanka packages from Mumbai or any other city. This small hill town tucked away among thousands of tea bushes really lives up to its name of “Little England”. We are an Indian travel company founded in 2013 and excel at domestic and international tour packages including guided group tours, specialty tours, customized holidays, corporate MICE travel, inbound travel and destination weddings. Post your Comment Please let us know your thoughts on this story by leaving a comment. Blog categories. Travel Guide Looking for something? 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Aapla Maharashtra 'आपला महाराष्ट्र' ही पॉडकास्ट मालिका म्हणजे महाराष्ट्राची झलकच. गौरवशाली इतिहास , वैविध्यपूर्ण परंपरा आणि आकर्षक भूगोल लाभलेल्या महाराष्ट्राची ओळख करून देण्यासाठीच वीणा वर्ल्डने ही मालिका सुरू केली आहे. या मालिकेतून महाराष्ट्राच्या रोमांचक इतिहासाचे साक्षीदार असलेल्या गड - किल्ल्यांचा थोडक्यात परिचय करुन दिला जाईल. मग दर गुरुवारी न चुकता ऐका ' आपला महाराष्ट्र ' आणि तुमच्या भटकंतीला द्या नवीन दिशा. Looking to explore the wonders of Maharashtra, India? Tune in to 'Aapla Maharashtra', a podcast series that takes you on a journey through the state's rich history, captivating culture, and breathtaking geography. Join us every Thursday for a new episode and discover the many forts that bear witness to Maharashtra's majestic past. Take your travel experience to the next level with 'Aapla Maharashtra'. Chalo Bag Bharo Nikal Pado #ChaloBagBharoNikal Pado, a Hindi podcast by Veena World, is here to take you on a virtual tour around the world. 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Read more 132 departures 43,192 guests travelled 129 departures 59,061 guests travelled 123 departures 60,040 guests travelled 31 departures 17,213 guests travelled 137 departures 83,543 guests travelled 47 departures 35,374 guests travelled 207 departures 1,26,325 guests travelled 42 departures 11,546 guests travelled 4.5 519 Ratings | 517 Reviews Nuwara Eliya Tourism And Travel Guide Nuwara Eliya is a quaint little city in the central region of Sri Lanka . Unlike most of the island country, Nuwara Eliya, at a height of over 6000 ft., has a temperate climate and is almost completely immersed in greenery. The city was established in the late 19th century by the British who were in power at the time. Even today colonial buildings and other remnants from the era can be found in good condition. Though the city was mostly used for retreats from the heat of coastal Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya was soon developed into a tea producing district. This accounts for the numerous plantations you would encounter if you were to visit. Tourism in Nuwara Eliya can only be described as calm, serene and enchanting; and if this was exactly what you were hoping to find then here is a travel guide to Nuwara Eliya that will help you plan the perfect trip. How To Reach While reaching Nuwara Eliya is rather easy, it can only be reached via Colombo . Nuwara Eliya does not have an airport but can be reached via road and by train. Taking a bus or driving to Nuwara Eliya is a bit faster than taking the train but both usually take about 6 to 10 hours. By Air:  The closest airport to Nuwara Eliya is located in Colombo, at about 161 km away. Travellers can take a taxi, bus or a train from the airport. While the Sri Lankan airlines is the major operator, Colombo is connected to most major parts of the world. By Rail:  Nuwara Eliya is connected to Colombo via Nanu Oya which is located at about 10 km away. There are trains departing from Colombo almost every day of the week but it is advisable to book tickets in advance. The train journey to Nuwara Eliya is considered as one of the most beautiful rides in Sri Lanka . On reaching the station in Nanu Oya, visitors can either take a taxi, a three-wheeled ride or a bus. By Road:  Located at about 180 kilometres from Colombo, there are two major routes running to Nuwara Eliya. One route that passes through Kandy and another route that passes through Hatton. Driving to Nuwara Eliya can be very adventurous and exciting. While both the routes are rather picturesque it would be important to keep the weather in mind. There are also buses that ply on both the routes with different kinds of services available from Colombo. They are quite cheap and easily accessible. How To Reach Nuwara Eliya Weather and Best Time to Visit The landlocked region of Nuwara Eliya experiences similar climatic conditions as most other places in the island-country of Sri Lanka , the only difference being the cooler temperature. Placed in the temperate zone, the place experiences some amount of rainfall all through-out the year. The decrease in the precipitation levels and the Sri Lankan and Tamil New year make the summers, especially April the best time to visit. Summer: March – June With the temperatures ranging from about 23 to 13°C, the summers are mostly warm in Nuwara Eliya. Summers are usually preferred to visit the region by both Sri Lankan’s and foreigners alike. The Tamil and the Sri Lankan New Year fall during this season, making it even more popular among visitors. Monsoon: July – October The monsoon season here is somewhat split into two phases and receives the highest amount of rainfall. While the monsoons are not preferred by many to visit the region, given the continuous rainfall, it could be a worthy experience to visit during this season. The rates of services also go down and this could be the cheapest time to travel to Nuwara Eliya. Winter: November – February While the winters are considered the coldest time of the year, the temperatures here range from about 15 to 20°C. The precipitation also reduces, allowing visitors to go about their activity. Winters are also a good time to visit the region. Nuwara Eliya Weather And Best Time To Visit Nuwara Eliya Things To Do There are a number of fun things you can do when you are at Nuwara Eliya, like hiking through tea plantations, exploring the highlands, fine dining in old colonial buildings or taking a lazy stroll along a lake. The best part of visiting Nuwara Eliya is that the landscape has great scope and only your imagination is your limit. Here is a list of a few typical things to do in Nuwara Eliya. Tea Estate Tour: If you are at Nuwara Eliya, this is a must. The leaves from here travel all around the world and become the famous ‘Ceylon tea’. In fact, Nuwara Eliya is often called the Tea Capital of Sri Lanka . There are a great many tea estates that offer tours to visitors. Most tea tours take tourists around the estates and explain the entire process and often end with a lavish tea tasting. There are also Shops nearby from where you can get yourself some of this fabulous tea. Hiking and Trekking: Though the slopes are pretty gentle if you explore enough, there are many trek-able places in Nuwara Eliya. Hiking is pretty common here. In fact, a couple of trails lead to some popular waterfalls like the trail to St. Clair’s Falls involves a gentle hike through tea estates until you emerge facing the majestic falls. Another popular trail is the one to World's End at Horton plains. This may be a whole day event but the trail and the view from world’s end is totally worth the time. Sight-Seeing: There are quite a few tourist sites in Nuwara Eliya. One such place is Victoria Park with its many trees and birds sprawled over the many acres that comprise the park. Gregory Lake is another popular tourist spot and many a people can be seen taking strolls or indulging in some good street food by the lake-side. There are also paddle boats that tourists can use to cruise the waters of the lake. One of the few high altitude national parks is located here as well. Known as the Hakgala Botanical Garden, it is one of the largest gardens and is home to thousands of plant species. Things To Do In Nuwara Eliya Tourist Places To Visit In Nuwara Eliya Nuwara Eliya has restaurants that serve both Sri Lankan and Indian food. The eateries range from inexpensive to splurge-worthy. If you haven’t had a chance to taste Sri Lankan street food yet then this is a good chance. Popular street food dishes like Kothu Rotti can be found easily and should be on the list for foodies. Some of the fancier restaurants are colonial structures that have been remodelled, so this is a good opportunity to catch some great architecture while enjoying a first class meal. The Bale Market or the winter market is one of the main market places in Nuwara Eliya. A great many winter clothes are sold here and are rather inexpensive too. Since Nuwara Eliya and nearby regions can get cold, this is a great place to stop by at the beginning of the trip. There are a number of souvenir stores as well. The shop at the Grand Hotel is one and Laksala Gifts is another. No souvenir is better than tea and you can find a good number of tea retailers in the city and outside. Most tea estates have shops that sell their products. By clicking below, I agree to the terms of service Your Name: Your Email: Home Country: Your Phone: 3000+ Trusted Agents. 1 Million+ Satisfied Travelers My school trip to Nuwara Eliya On July 28, 2015, we went to Nuwara Eliya. We departed from school and went in buses from Yamuna Tours. We travelled by road. When we went through the mountains, we saw many green plains. Firstly we went to the Ambewela Farm. We saw cows eating grass in the cow [...] Sunday Times 2 Business Times Funday Times Sunday, January 31, 2016 Kids Essays My school trip to Nuwara Eliya On July 28, 2015, we went to Nuwara Eliya. We departed from school and went in buses from Yamuna Tours. We travelled by road. When we went through the mountains, we saw many green plains. Firstly we went to the Ambewela Farm. We saw cows eating grass in the cow shed. I saw one old cow giving milk to a calf to drink. The farm is divided into three called the cheese farm, milk farm and the cow shed. After that we went to the strawberry farm. I thought there would be strawberries in it but it didn’t have any. They told us that strawberries grow in the winter season (December). Then after that we went to the canteen which had strawberries, plastic strawberry pens, strawberry drinks and other things. After that we went to the Victoria Park. We took lunch there. We saw beautiful endemic plants and flowers. Then we journeyed back to school which took six hours. When we got to school we met our parents. I thought this was the most memorable trip that I had in my life. Vinuth Siriwardana (11 years) Vidura College Myself My name is Yasadu. I am six years old. I study at Mahinda Vidyalaya. I am in Grade Two. I like to drink Milo. I like to eat mangoes. I like to play cricket. I like to become a doctor. I love myself. Yasadu Imanjith (6 years) Mahinda Vidyalaya A gift for Daddy You gave me what I wanted, You gave me what I need With all your hard work and money, You’ve helped me to succeed. You gave me the best books, And also the best toys, You’ve made me the most luckiest, From all the girls and boys. However, you missed your birthday Twice to be exact and now, You’ll miss another one too, But still I know somehow, You’re never far away from me, Although you’re not on Earth I know, But above the skies in Heaven, Each year I love you more. Misha Miskin (Year 6) Horizon College Int., Malabe My country Sri Lanka is our country. It is a beautiful island in the Indian Ocean. So it is called ‘The Pearl of the Indian Ocean’. The capital of Sri Lanka is Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte. colombo is the business capital of Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka has a population of more than 22 million people. In ancient times Sri Lanka was known by many different names. The Greek travelers called it Taprobane and the Arabs called it Serendib. M. R. M. Aakif (10 years) Colombo 10 The causes of obesity in human beings People eat fast food. These contain fats and carbohydrates. Eating too much fat causes obesity in human beings. Eating too much fat, oversized food portions, fast food, instant food, crisps, carbonated drinks are all very harmful to our health. The second cause of obesity is lack of exercise because of spending too many hours in front of the television and computers, playing too many computer and video games and not playing sports. Travelling by vehicles also means less exercise. We can walk and use the stairs instead of the lift. We have less work at home and office because we use machines and computers. Then people are inactive and lethargic and gain weight. A main cause is peoples’ busy schedules, no time to be physically active and not exercising regularly. Genes and family history is also a cause for this problem. If you do not try to control obesity, diabetes, cholesterol and high blood pressure will shorten your life expectancy. Akinda Udaneth (12 years) Royal College The day they came They put on me the blame That I had been stealing Not knowing my feeling They said they were very hungry But I was very angry When they left I was very happy I don’t know where they are And I do not care! Zahirah Anver (11 years) Harcourts Int. School Birds Birds! How nice are these birds. They are in various colours, patterns and in their music. In ancient times our ancestors got many advantages from birds. Even today, people enjoy their lives with birds. They live in groups except when the birds are pets. Birds have split into many species like parrots, ducks, robins, osprey and kingfishers. My favourite is the parrot. Parrot is a common bird. It is green in colour and has a red beak. Some people take this bird as their pets as well as for circuses. These birds can talk when we teach them. When we love birds they pay back double. These birds are afraid of humans. This is a feature that is common to these creatures. Birds can fly far away. When they fly in a group, they fly in the shape of a ‘V’ because birds have to fly with less effort and this way is easy. Also a common feature among birds is migration. They migrate to other countries in unfavourable environmental conditions and for reproduction purposes. For example, birds migrate in the winter season. Birds make our world beautiful. They give an enjoyable life to human and it’s really hard to imagine a world without birds! Dinithi Jayaratne (Grade 7) Sangamitta Girls’ College, Matale My pet My pet’s name is Lulu. My pet is a cat. My pet is white in colour. My pet is a good cat. It likes to eat fish. Lulu is my best friend. Lulu likes me so much. It plays with me. I keep Lulu in my house for ever. Keeping my pet is fun. I love my pet. Udara Weerasekara (Grade 2) Vidyaloka Model School, Hingurakgoda My friend My friend’s name is Dahamsa Sipsari. She is a Sri Lankan. She is ten years old. Her school is Dodangoda Maha Vidyalaya. She lives in Todugala. She has one sister and one brother. Her sister is Danulya and her brother is Damiru. Her mother is Deepika and her father is Asiri. Her family is big. Her birthday is on April 5. She is a beautiful girl. Her favourite food is milk rice and her favourite drink is orange juice. She likes to eat apples. She likes playing with me. Her favourite sport is netball and she is playing elle. She likes to learn English and Mathematics. Her favourite colours are blue, red, yellow, pink, purple and gold. Her hobby is reading stories, gardening and watching TV programmes. Her ambition is to be a doctor. Pasindi Jayasundara (Grade 5) K/Dodangoda M.V. I went to the zoo One sunny day we went to the zoo by train. We packed everything, food, water and some pizzas too. The zoo was like a town chatting, shouting and screaming too. The kingdom of animals I could see. Monkeys and donkeys, giraffes and zebras, running through all over. Parrots and sparrows, swans and ducks screaming aloud. A nice charming pond filled with small and big colourful and colourless fishes I could see… And the monkey family was actually like a busy town. They were chatting and they were also screaming. And all the small monkeys were having ripe yellow bananas. When it was the end of the huge animal kingdom, I felt a little sad, leaving all the animals. But I wish I could meet them again and again… Shezni Hilmy (11 years) Royal Int. School, Kegalle My favourite person My favourite person is my mother. She is the one who cares for me a lot. My mother loves me very much. She is the housewife in our home. Always she advises me to be a good citizen. She is busy in the household work. When she is free, she spends the time with me to help my studies. She also makes delicious food and I like them very much. When I am sick she is with me until I recover from my illness. Everyone knows that my mother is very kind. She is also a honest, hardworking mother. I learn a lot from my mother. I am indebted to her for giving everything in my life. When I become an adult I will look after her very well… Piumi Sandalika (14 years) Holy Angels Girls’ College, Kuliyapitiya My father I love my father very much. His name is Prabath Udukumbura. He is 39 years old. His hobbies are doing handicrafts and making our garden beautiful. He made a fish tank and we love to watch the fish swim. He comes with us to fly a kite. He is a good driver. He takes us to school. I love my father. Sanuka Udukumbura (8 years) Vidyartha College, Kandy Share This Post The futile attempt by the king, firefighting. ↑ The Sunday Times Sri Lanka The Sunday Times Sri Lanka Advertising Rates Guest Reviews Directions & Map Privacy Policy Terms & Conditions Picture Gallery Reservations Special Offers Blue Garuda Marble Galway's Bird Sanctuary Hakgala Gardens Horton Plains & Worlds End Kandy Perahera Moon Plains Sita Amman Temple Sri Baktha Hanuman Temple Strawberry Fields Victoria Park Guided Excursions Horse Riding Mountain Biking Water Sports Whitewater Rafting GPS Coordinates Weather Forecast Climate Data Nuwara Eliya April Season Calendar Ceylon Tea History Categories of Tea Ozone Friendly Tea Tea Recipes Tea Benefits Tea Research Institute Tea Tasting Country Profile Sri Lanka History Sri Lanka Holidays Why Sri Lanka A Smile from Lanka Sri Lanka Video Vacation Rental Benefits Social Stream Useful Links About Nuwara Eliya 341 IMAGES 🚌 Educational Trip-2022, to Nuwara Eliya O L paragraph writing English Centre Nuwara Eliya Kids English Class Grade 09 Trip to Nuwara Eliya 2020 A Simple Essay About Nuwara Eliya Sri Lanka Grade 9 සිංහල A Simple Essay About Nuwara Eliya Sri Lanka VIDEO Buddhism/daham eliya-grade 7-පාඩම 01 Rev.kolugala Wajiragnana (BA-MA-Bed-Med) Mandaram Nuwara පිදුරුතලාගලට පේන තැන් 19ක් The Wind Castle Nuwara Wawata Hadu Didi කොන්ඩගල KONDAGALA COMMENTS Nuwara Eliya Nuwara Eliya (Sinhala: නුවර එළිය [nuwərə ɛlijə]; Tamil: நுவரெலியா [nʉʋəɾɛlɪjɑː]) is a city in the hill country of the Central Province, Sri Lanka.Its name means "city on the plain (table land)" or "city of light". The city is the administrative capital of Nuwara Eliya District, with a picturesque landscape and temperate climate. MY ENGLISH TEACHER W.I Read and explain the essay on Nuwara Eliya.SUBSCRIBE AND JOIN WITH ME.....I'm a government school English and English Literature Teacher in a reputed Sri L... Nuwara Eliya Nuwara Eliya, town, south-central Sri Lanka.It lies at an elevation of 6,199 feet (1,889 metres) above sea level, immediately south of the island's highest summit, Mount Pidurutalagala (8,281 feet [2,524 metres]), and 25 miles (40 km) southeast of Kandy.From 1830 Nuwara Eliya was a hill station used by the British residents of what was then Ceylon. Nuwara Eliya Subscribe us to get more essays .....@essaygallery8335 #simpleessay #nuwaraeliya #sinhala #english #රචනා#නුවරඑළිය# ... Nuwara Eliya Sri Lanka Nuwara Eliya Sri Lanka (City of Lights) is a resort city in the Central Mountain Range of Sri Lanka. Blessed a with salubrious climate, breathtaking views of valleys, meadows, mountains and greenery; it's hard to imagine that Nuwara Eliya is only 180 Km from the hot and humid Colombo. Nuwara Eliya, also known as 'Little' England', was the favorite hill station of the British who tried ... Nuwara Eliya History of Nuwara Eliya and Tea. Historically speaking, Nuwara Eliya is a relatively new place. The town from which the district takes its name sits perched on a plateau 1,868 m (6,128 ft.) above sea level, under the shadow of Sri Lanka's highest mountain, Pidurutalagala. Almost inaccessible in olden times due to the precipitous, jungle-clad ... Nuwara Eliya Its name means "city of light". The city is the administrative capital of Nuwara Eliya District, with a picturesque landscape is at an altitude of 1,868 m (6,128 ft.) Due to the high altitude Nuwara Eliya has a much cooler climate than the other part of Sri Lanka, with a mean annual temperature of 16 °C. Nuwara Eliya: An English Tale in Sri Lanka Especially if you're planning to stay in Nuwara Eliya, a beautiful English town on top of a hill. Dubbed Little England, the town is a contrast to other cities in Sri Lanka not only because of the English history, but also the climate and architecture. Founded by Samuel Baker in 1846, Nuwara Eliya's cool climate (daily average of 16°C ... Nuwara Eliya Sri Lanka, Asia. Sri Lanka's highest town and the heart of the country's most beautiful region, the southern hill country, Nuwara Eliya sits beneath the towering Pidurutalagala mountain in a bowl of verdant, tea-covered hills. Although the region was once occupied by the Kandyan kingdom, the town itself is very much a British creation. Nuwara Eliya Info Nuwara Eliya is often referred to by the Sri Lankan tourist industry as 'Little England'.. Travelling through winding roads and lush green valleys, tea estates situated on the slopes and banks of the hills, with tiny streams and water falls and the beautiful misty mountains , one can arrive at Nuwara Eliya town which offers you everything, as any other town does and more. The Heart Of British Ceylon The Hill Club is a beautiful colonial style building, dating back to 1876, surrounded by a lovely garden covering 26 acres. The majestic Hill Club Nuwara Eliya. It was once a gentlemen's club exclusive for the British colonists with a bar and a billiard room. Women and locals were only allowed in 1967. Tales of Nuwara Eliya The mountain town of Nuwara Eliya came into being when it was discovered by the British in the 19th century. The British turned it into a quaint town, which mimicked life back in England. Much of the city's history is therefore linked with events from the colonial era. However, like much of Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya too has a mythical past that ... 7 Amazing Things to Do in Nuwara Eliya (2024) Here are the top things to do in Nuwara Eliya! 1. Visit one of the many tea plantations. One of the main reasons that people visit this area of Sri Lanka is to visit one of the many tea plantations. As soon as you step off the train you are immersed in miles and miles of tea leaves. It's endless, with plantations quite literally moulding into ... Nuwara Eliya: The 'Little England' of Sri Lanka This is one of the smallest and newest national parks in Nuwara Eliya. The park is situated within city limits and is a must-visit tourist spot. The park operates from 6 AM to 5 PM. The National Park is a habitat for 10 Sri Lankan endemics, Wild boar, Barking deer, and exotic birds. The entry fee is $10. History in Nuwara Eliya The first Sri Lanka to own property was the father of late S.W.R.D. Bandaranayake, in 1910. The history of Nuwara Eliya roughly dates back to 1818 when Dr. John Davy discovered Nuwara Eliya as a place with a similar climate as England and also a place full of wild animals for hunting such as Elephants, and other animals and also full of Asoka ... The Top Things to See and Do in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka Enjoy a stroll in Victoria Park. Park. The main park in Nuwara Eliya, created in honour of Queen Victoria's 60th jubilee in 1897, spreads out over 11ha (27 acres) and is home to foreign trees and an abundance of flowers. It's the perfect place to enjoy nature, and for families there is a little train for kids to enjoy, and a playground. Nuwara Eliya Buses can be taken from Colombo route #79, three times per day, six hours. Or from Kandy, every 20 minutes, 2½-3 hour trip. Be aware - road transport between Colombo and Nuwara Eliya is very slow. The journey will typically take five to six hours to cover the 180 km. Traffic, poor weather or failing light can extend the time needed. Nuwara Eliya Nuwara Eliya, meaning the City of Light, is located in the central province of Sri Lanka and is considered the most important region for tea production, with the coolest temperatures in the country, ranging from 10-21 degree celsius. Explore the tea estates, the lakes, picturesque landscapes and historic buildings as you discover the elegance ... Experience the Best of Sri Lanka by Exploring these Nuwara Eliya Nuwara Eliya's city centre is home to one of Sri Lanka's oldest post offices. Built in 1894 by Britishers, it is a two-story Tudor-style building replete with red bricks and a clock spire. The bright orange roof and the red bricks of the post office create a contrast against the beautifully maintained green lawns. Nuwara Eliya Tourism And Travel Guide Nanu Oya (10 kms) Nuwara Eliya is a quaint little city in the central region of Sri Lanka. Unlike most of the island country, Nuwara Eliya, at a height of over 6000 ft., has a temperate climate and is almost completely immersed in greenery. The city was established in the late 19th century by the British who were in power at the time. Kids Essays He made a fish tank and we love to watch the fish swim. He comes with us to fly a kite. He is a good driver. He takes us to school. I love my father. Sanuka Udukumbura (8 years) Vidyartha College, Kandy. My school trip to Nuwara Eliya On July 28, 2015, we went to Nuwara Eliya. We departed from school and went in buses from Yamuna Tours. Nuwara Eliya Nuwara eliya - Free download as PDF File (.pdf), Text File (.txt) or read online for free. This is essay about nuwara eliya Villa Spring Acre Nuwara Eliya Nuwara Eliya is a base for visits to Horton Plains National Park. This is a key wildlife area of an open grassy woodland. Species include the Leopard, Sambar, and the endemic Purple-faced Langur. Endemic highland birds include the Dull-blue Flycatcher, Sri Lanka White-eye, and Yellow-eared Bulbul. The plains also have a well-visited tourist ... assignment essay homework paper phd report resume review speech thesis