Nuwara Eliya: Hill station with tea plantations
Description
Nuwara Eliya, often called "Little England," is a charming hill station in Sri Lanka’s central highlands. Sitting at an altitude of 1,868 meters (6,128 feet), it is known for its cool climate, rolling tea plantations, colonial architecture, and stunning landscapes. The town was established by the British in the 19th century as a retreat and still retains an old-world charm with English-style bungalows, gardens, and horse racing tracks.
Visitor Fee
- No entry fee for the town itself.
- Some attractions like Horton Plains National Park or Hakgala Botanical Garden charge entry fees.
Transportation
- By Air: Domestic flights to Gregory Lake Seaplane Base are available.
- By Train: The scenic train from Kandy to Nanu Oya (closest station) is a must-do.
- By Bus: Regular buses from Colombo, Kandy, and Ella.
- By Car: Private taxis or rental cars offer a comfortable ride.
Things to Do
- Visit a Tea Plantation & Factory – Experience Sri Lanka’s world-famous tea production.
- Explore Horton Plains National Park – Hike to World’s End, a breathtaking cliff.
- Relax by Gregory Lake – Enjoy boat rides, horse riding, or a lakeside walk.
- See the Hakgala Botanical Garden – Home to exotic plants and flowers.
- Walk Through Victoria Park – A beautifully maintained garden in the heart of town.
- Visit Seetha Amman Temple – A Hindu temple linked to the Ramayana.
- Take a Train Ride to Ella – One of the most scenic train journeys in the world.
Why People Enjoy Coming Here
- Cool climate makes it a perfect escape from the tropical heat.
- Lush green landscapes with rolling tea estates.
- Colonial charm with English-style architecture.
- Outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and golfing.
- Cultural and historical significance in tea production and Hindu mythology.
Age of the Town
Established in the early 19th century (1819) by British colonialists.
List of Activities
- Tea tasting and factory visits
- Trekking in Horton Plains
- Boating and picnicking at Gregory Lake
- Horse riding and golfing
- Visiting historic temples and gardens
- Scenic train journeys to Ella or Kandy
Additional Nearby Attractions
- Horton Plains National Park & World’s End (~30 km) – A famous hiking spot.
- Lover’s Leap Waterfall (~5 km) – A picturesque waterfall.
- Pedro Tea Estate (~3 km) – Offers guided tours of tea production.
- Ambewela Farm (~20 km) – A dairy farm known for fresh milk and cheese.
- Moon Plains (~6 km) – Offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.