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Nuwara Eliya, known as “Little England,” is a unique town in Sri Lanka, shaped by its colonial past and surrounded by tea plantations. With its cool climate and British-style architecture, it offers a distinct contrast to the tropical regions of the country. Once a retreat for British planters, it now attracts travellers looking for history, nature, and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore old estates, walk through beautifully maintained gardens, or tour tea factories to see how Sri Lanka’s famous tea is made. Whether for sightseeing or relaxation, it provides a refreshing escape from the usual island landscapes.
Location
Photo: Anton Lecock / Unsplash
Nuwara Eliya is in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka, 1,868 metres above sea level. Mountains, valleys, and tea estates surround the area. It is about 160 km from Colombo and is important in Sri Lanka’s tea production.
How To Reach
Photo: Rowan Heuvel / Unsplash
Travelling to Nuwara Eliya is an experience in itself, offering views of plantations and hills along the way.
By Train: The train ride from Colombo to Nanu Oya, the closest station (8 km away), is known for its scenic route. From Nanu Oya, a taxi or tuk-tuk can take you to the town.
By Road:
- From Colombo: A 5-6 hour drive via Kandy on the A1 and A5 highways.
- From Kandy: A 3-hour drive through winding mountain roads.
- From Ella: A 2-3 hour drive through tea estates and waterfalls.
By Bus: Public and private buses run from Colombo and Kandy. While affordable, they can be crowded and slower than other options.
5 Places To Visit In Nuwara Eliya
Here is a list of the best places to visit in Nuwara Eliya:
1. Gregory Lake
Photo: Kalana Jayatilake / Wikimedia Commons
Gregory Lake is one of the best places to visit in Nuwara Eliya. It is known as a man-made reservoir built during the British colonial era, offering a scenic spot for relaxation and recreation in Sri Lanka. Visitors can enjoy boating, jet-skiing, and picnicking along the waterfront. The surrounding park area provides walking paths and bicycle rentals, making it an ideal place for a leisurely outing. The cool climate and picturesque setting attract both locals and tourists looking for outdoor activities.
Location: Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM daily
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults and ₹5 for children
2. Hakgala Botanical Garden
Photo: Z thomas / Wikimedia Commons
Hakgala Botanical Garden is one of the places to visit in Nuwara Eliya and the second-largest botanical garden in Sri Lanka, featuring a diverse collection of plants, including orchids, roses, and rare ferns. The well-maintained pathways lead visitors through themed sections like the Japanese Garden, while the cool climate allows for a thriving variety of flora. Birdwatching is also popular here, as many species frequent the gardens. The garden is a great place for nature lovers looking to experience Sri Lanka’s botanical diversity.
Location: Hakgala, Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
Timings: 7:30 AM – 5 PM daily
Entry Fee: ₹380 for adults and ₹190 for children
3. Pedro Tea Estate
Photo: Rowan Heuvel / Unsplash
Pedro Tea Estate is one of the best places to visit in Nuwara Eliya which offers an immersive experience in Sri Lanka’s famous tea industry. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the tea-making process, from plucking leaves to processing in the factory. The estate provides stunning views of rolling tea plantations, and the fresh aroma of tea fills the air. A small café on-site serves freshly brewed tea, allowing guests to sample local flavours while enjoying the serene landscape.
Location: Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
Timings: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM, 2 PM – 4:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
4. Victoria Park
Photo: Alexey Komarov / Wikimedia Commons
Victoria Park is a well-maintained public park in the centre of Nuwara Eliya, known for its vibrant flower displays and birdwatching opportunities. The park is especially beautiful during the blooming seasons in March-May and August-September. It offers walking paths, benches for relaxation, and a small playground for children. Its peaceful atmosphere and lush plant life make it a great spot for an afternoon stroll or a quiet escape from the town’s bustle.
Location: Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM daily
Entry Fee: ₹75 for adults and ₹40 for children
5. Lover’s Leap Waterfall
Photo: SLNC / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Lover’s Leap Waterfall is one of the tourist attractions in Nuwara Eliya, with a striking 30-metre-high cascade surrounded by lush tea plantations. The waterfall is accessible via a short but scenic hike, offering breathtaking views along the way. It gets its name from a local legend about a couple who leapt from the falls. The best time to visit is during the rainy season when the water flow is at its strongest. This hidden gem is ideal for nature lovers and photographers looking for a peaceful retreat.
Location: Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
Where To Stay
Photo: maxfranke / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Nuwara Eliya offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget lodges. The Grand Hotel, a colonial-era property, features large gardens and fine dining, while Heritance Tea Factory provides a unique stay in a converted tea factory overlooking tea plantations. For a more affordable experience, Araliya Green Hills offers modern rooms, and Jetwing St. Andrew’s provides a quiet British-style retreat. Budget travellers can opt for The Cottage by Jetwing, a simple stay with basic comforts, or Single Tree Hotel, an affordable choice with scenic views.
Where To Eat
Photo: kaboompics / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The town has diverse dining options, including Sri Lankan and international cuisine. Grand Indian serves flavorful North Indian dishes, while Barnes Hall offers a mix of Sri Lankan and Western food. Salmiya Italian Restaurant is known for its wood-fired pizzas, and De Silva Food Centre provides budget-friendly rice and curry. For a traditional tea experience, High Tea at The Grand Hotel serves British-style tea with pastries and locally sourced teas.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Nuwara Eliya is from February to April when the weather is dry and ideal for outdoor activities. April hosts an annual festival featuring horse races and flower shows. December and January are the coldest months, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C. From May to September, the monsoon season brings regular rain and mist, making outdoor exploration more challenging.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Ishan Kahapola Arachchi / Unsplash
Average Cost Of Trip
The cost of a trip to Nuwara Eliya varies based on your travel style. Budget travellers can spend around ₹2,500 – 4,200 per day with basic accommodations, public transport, and street food. Those looking for better hotels, private transport, and restaurant dining may need ₹6,700 – 10,000. A luxury experience starts at ₹12,500 per day. On average, travellers spend around ₹6,000 – 8,000 per day.
Tips For Travellers
- Pack warm clothes as the evenings can be cold.
- Book train tickets early as the train to Nanu Oya is popular and fills up fast.
- Carry cash as some small shops do not accept cards.
- Hire a guide for Horton Plains as it helps with navigation and spotting wildlife.
- Try local tea as different plantations offer different flavours and strengths.
Nuwara Eliya offers a break from Sri Lanka’s tropical heat, with rolling hills, colonial-era buildings, and tea estates stretching for miles. Walk through old English-style gardens, visit a working tea factory, or take a boat ride on Gregory Lake. The cool air and slower pace make it a great place to unwind. Plan your trip with TripXL for a hassle-free experience.
