Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka Guide
Nuwara Eliya is a charming hill station located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. Known as 'Little England', the city is famous for its cool climate, lush greenery, and tea plantations. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks, visit waterfalls, and explore the beautiful gardens and parks in the area.
Transportation
Nuwara Eliya is well-connected by road with buses and tuk-tuks being the main modes of public transportation. There is also a train station in the city that connects Nuwara Eliya to other major cities in Sri Lanka.
Airport
The nearest airport to Nuwara Eliya is Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, located approximately 150 kilometers away. Visitors can take a taxi or bus to reach Nuwara Eliya from the airport.
Attractions
Seetha Amman Temple
Seetha Amman Temple is a Hindu temple located in the village of Seetha Eliya, near Nuwara Eliya. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Seetha, the wife of Lord Rama. According to the Hindu epic Ramayana, Seetha was held captive in this area by the demon king Ravana. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and features colorful statues, intricate carvings, and beautiful murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana.
Horton Plains National Park
Horton Plains National Park is a beautiful nature reserve known for its scenic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and World's End cliff. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints, waterfalls, and unique flora and fauna. The park is also home to herds of sambar deer and elusive leopards. A must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Tea Plantations
Nuwara Eliya is famous for its lush tea plantations that produce some of the finest Ceylon tea in the world. Visitors can take guided tours of the plantations to learn about the tea-making process, from plucking the leaves to brewing the perfect cup. The rolling hills and picturesque landscapes make for a scenic and educational experience.
Gregory Lake
Gregory Lake is a man-made reservoir surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, picnics by the lakeside, and leisurely walks along the promenade. The lake is a popular spot for relaxation and recreation, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. A perfect place to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of Nuwara Eliya.
Victoria Park
Victoria Park is a beautifully landscaped park located in the center of Nuwara Eliya. The park features a wide variety of colorful flowers, trees, and shrubs, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the winding pathways, relax on the well-maintained lawns, and admire the vibrant floral displays. Victoria Park also hosts an annual flower show, attracting visitors from all over the country.
Hakgala Botanical Garden
Hakgala Botanical Garden is a beautiful garden located at the base of the Hakgala Rock. It is known for its stunning collection of orchids, roses, and ferns. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks through the well-maintained pathways and admire the colorful flowers and lush greenery. The garden also offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for picnics and relaxation.
Lovers Leap Waterfall
Lovers Leap Waterfall is a stunning waterfall located near Nuwara Eliya. The waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff into a pool below, creating a picturesque and romantic setting. Visitors can hike through the lush green forest to reach the waterfall and enjoy the cool mist and soothing sound of the rushing water. Lovers Leap Waterfall is a popular spot for nature lovers, photographers, and couples looking for a peaceful and scenic retreat.
Pedro Tea Estate
Pedro Tea Estate is one of the oldest and most famous tea estates in Sri Lanka. Visitors can take guided tours of the estate to learn about the tea-making process, from plucking the leaves to packaging the final product. The estate offers stunning views of the lush green tea plantations and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also sample a variety of freshly brewed teas at the estate's tea shop.
Day Trips
Horton Plains National Park
A day trip to Horton Plains National Park offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, waterfalls, and unique flora and fauna. The highlight of the trip is the World's End viewpoint, where you can see a sheer drop of 870 meters.
Travel Time
1.5 hours by car from Nuwara Eliya
Activities
- Hiking to World's End viewpoint
,- Visiting Baker's Falls
,- Spotting wildlife such as sambar deer and purple-faced langur monkeys
Tea Plantations in Ella
Explore the picturesque tea plantations in Ella on a day trip from Nuwara Eliya. Learn about the tea-making process, enjoy panoramic views of the rolling hills, and visit the famous Nine Arch Bridge.
Travel Time
2 hours by train from Nuwara Eliya
Activities
- Touring a tea factory
,- Hiking to Little Adam's Peak
,- Photographing the Nine Arch Bridge