Places to visit in Nuwara Eliya are home to beautiful views and quiet ambiences. Nuwara Eliya, known as “Little England,” provides a unique fusion of colonial buildings and gorgeous scenery. Nuwara Eliya is a refuge for history buffs and nature admirers due to attractions like Hakgala Botanical Gardens and the serene Lake Gregory. Tourists can enjoy taking strolls along the well-built pathways in this treasured location. They can also enjoy taking tea plantation trips amidst the breathtaking scenery. Tourists get a first-hand experience of exploring Sri Lankan history after visiting this little hill village.
15 Best Places To Visit In Nuwara Eliya
Here is a list of some of the enchanting places to visit in Nuwara Eliya, that you should explore for a scenic getaway in this idyllic abode.
1. Horton Plains National Park

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Horton Plains National Park is a fantastic montane grassland region that lies in Nuwara Eliya, where cloud forest is found. Within this park are some rare animals like elusive leopards and sambar deer, making it famous for its beautiful scenery as well as the diverse ecology therein. Horton Plains National Park boasts extraordinary scenic views, where sharp drops are visible within surrounding valleys. A trek through Horton Plains offers adventurers a chance to explore pristine nature in Sri Lanka.
Best Time To Visit: March to May
Suggested Read: National Parks In Sri Lanka
2. Victoria Park

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The middle of the town is a peaceful haven that is home to the exquisitely crafted Victoria Park of Nuwara Eliya. Victoria Park is a famous tourist place in Nuwara Eliya among visitors, and it is an ideal place for walks and picnics amid quietness. Bird watchers also love it because it houses many types of birds. With its beautiful ambience and surrounding greenery, Victoria Park is undoubtedly a calm getaway.
Best Time To Visit: March to May
3. Lake Gregory

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Lake Gregory is located in the centre of Nuwara Eliya and is a lovely reservoir that provides a place for quietness amid lush greenery. The lake is embraced by rolling hills and kept gardens and is a source of many cherished activities like boat rides and strolling through its beautiful walking trails. Its still water makes it one of the best sites for picnics and relaxation. Lake Gregory is a go-to place to visit in Nuwara Eliya for those looking for an area where they can unwind while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Best Time To Visit: March to May
Suggested Read: Beaches In Sri Lanka
4. Hakgala Botanical Garden

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Hakgala Botanical Garden is located in a lush paradise that boasts of numerous breathtaking vistas and the diversity of plants. It features charming sections with vibrant flowerbeds, vast green spaces, and an impressive collection of both tropical as well as subtropical species. This beautiful place to visit in Nuwara Eliya has themed areas such as a fernery and rose garden where tourists can enjoy wonderful views accompanied by quietness around them.
Best Time To Visit: March to May
5. St. Clair Falls

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St. Clair Falls is a stunning natural attraction whose magnificence can be dramatic. This incredible cascade tumbles into a green valley from rocky cliffs, and there are soft mist-covered mountains and tea-drop-clad fields surrounding the cascade with peacefulness and stunning beauty. This is one of the most admired tourist destinations in Nuwara Eliya, and locals and tourists alike believe that this place is a wonderful treasure. Moreover, nature enthusiasts and photographers from all over the world are drawn to this place due to the warmth and serenity this location has to offer.
Best Time To Visit: March to May
Suggested Read: Discover The Best Places To Visit In Bentota
6. Ramboda Falls

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Ramboda Falls is a stunning two-tiered waterfall that cascades elegantly down a lush green cliff. It reaches a height of around 109 metres and presents an enthralling image as it tumbles across the scenic terrain. Ramboda Falls is surrounded by tea plantations and provides nature lovers and photographers with an amazing backdrop and a peaceful haven. The falls are a must-see location in Sri Lanka’s hill country since they are easily accessible, and the surrounding area offers walking pathways and overlooks that improve the experience.
Best Time To Visit: March to May
7. Bale Bazaar

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Bela Bazaar is situated at the centre of Nuwara Eliya. Bale Bazaar is a lively and bustling marketplace that embodies the spirit of the region. This bazaar, which is well-known for its vibrant booths and upbeat vibe, sells a broad range of products, such as fresh vegetables, tea, spices, and traditional crafts. Visitors can buy a wide variety of products and be a part of traditional Sri Lankan market life. The market is the perfect place to get a taste of the local cuisines, handcrafted trinkets and freshly produced goods because of its vibrant atmosphere and extensive assortment.
Best Time To Visit: March to May
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Sri Lanka With Family
8. Moon Plains

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Moon Plains is a charming plateau with breathtaking sweeping views of the surrounding hills, close to Nuwara Eliya. Hikers and nature admirers of the outdoors will love this beautiful setting, which is highlighted by its pristine meadows and hazy views. The region is well-known for its distinctive biodiversity, which includes a wide range of endemic bird and wildflower species. This place is undoubtedly a go-to tourist place to visit in Nuwara Eliya as it is a calm haven away from the busy city life where guests may unwind and get in touch with Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.
Best Time To Visit: March to May
9. Galway’s Land National Park

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Galway’s Land is a stunning sanctuary that highlights Sri Lanka’s abundant biodiversity. This park, which covers an area of around 60 hectares, has quiet marshes, pathways, and lush woodlands. Numerous butterflies, tiny mammals, and a range of bird species, including the elusive Sri Lankan blue magpie, can be found there. People can enjoy nature walks and birdwatching as this place is home to well-kept paths and serene surroundings. Galway’s Land National Park provides a first-hand chance to take in the highland scenery and fauna of Sri Lanka.
Best Time To Visit: March to May
Suggested Read: Wasgamuwa National Park Sri Lanka
10. Laxapana Falls

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The magnificent Laxapana Falls, which are close to Nuwara Eliya, are well-known for their amazing beauty. This magnificent waterfall, which rises to a height of around 126 meters, cascades through steep terrain and is encircled by tea plantations and lush vegetation. When the water flow is at its highest during the rainy season, the falls are known to produce stunning scenery. Nature enthusiasts and photographers who want to capture the essence of Sri Lanka’s natural splendour often visit Laxapana Falls because of its scenic backdrop and the calming sound of the sparkling water.
Best Time To Visit: March to May
11. Aberdeen Falls

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Aberdeen Falls, a stunning waterfall cascading from a height of 98 metres, is one of the scenic tourist attractions in Nuwara Eliya. It is located on the Kehelgamu Oya near Ginigathena in the Nuwara Eliya District of Sri Lanka. Flowing through lush greenery and tea plantations, the fall is blessed with serene landscapes. It is the perfect destination for travellers seeking a tranquil retreat in the lap of nature. In addition to natural beauty, Aberdeen Falls offers trekking opportunities to satiate your adrenaline.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Suggested Read: Waterfalls In Sri Lanka
12. Shri Bhakta Hanuman Temple

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Shri Bhakta Hanuman Temple, a Hindu shrine, is one of the top sacred places to visit in Nuwara Eliya. It is situated on a hill slope 3,200 feet above sea level and is helmed by the lake vistas of Ramboda Falls. Built in 1981, the temple holds utmost importance to both the locals and visitors from all around the world. The temple features a 16-foot-tall idol of Hanumanji amidst tea plantations. Offering a blend of spiritual solace and serenity, Shri Bhakta Hanuman Temple is the ideal destination for travellers seeking a mystic retreat.
Best Time To Visit: December to April
13. Pedro Tea Factory

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If you are wondering what is Nuwara Eliya famous for? Then, the answer is its breathtaking natural beauty and emerald-green tea plantations, including the Pedro Tea Factory. It is stretched across the terraces of the Pidurutalagala mountain and offers scenic views of the surroundings. Pedro Tea Factory is known for cultivating Pure Ceylon Tea and acts as an essential part of the tea-producing industry of Sri Lanka. Here, you can sample some delicacies at the outdoor cafe or purchase some Pure Ceylon Tea as souvenirs.
Best Time To Visit: January to April
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Nuwara Eliya That Go Beyond The Guidebooks
14. Swarnagiri Maha Viharaya

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If the question — What are the special places in Nuwara Eliya pops into your mind, then the answer is Swarnagiri Maha Viharaya. Swarnagiri Maha Viharaya, also known as the Single Tree Temple, is a significant Buddhist temple located in the Gampaha District of Sri Lanka. Exuding rich history and spiritual significance, the temple is an important pilgrimage site for locals and devotees from all across the globe. The temple complex features statues of the Buddha, murals depicting Buddhist teachings, and a peaceful ambience.
Best Time To Visit: December to April
15. Kudahagala

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Kudahagala, the fourth-tallest mountain in Sri Lanka, is one of the serene tourist places in Nuwara Eliya. Boasting a height of 2320 meters, it is adorned with towering peaks, lush greenery, and a blanket of misty air. Furthermore, Kudahagala is a top destination for trekkers and adventure seekers as it is filled with rugged terrains dotted with plush green vegetation on both sides. As you traverse through these arduous trails, you can witness panoramic vistas of the surroundings.
Best Time To Visit: January to April
Suggested Read: Top Best Places To Visit In Sri Lanka
Places to visit in Nuwara Eliya offer a unique experience that combines historical charm with scenic beauty. Its beautiful scenery and rich history provide the ideal getaway from everyday life. Nuwara Eliya’s varied attractions will make your trip unforgettable. So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Nuwara Eliya with TripXL to discover these hidden gems and immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the city.
Cover Photo: Chamixth / Wikimedia Commons