Nuwara Eliya

Best things to do & Best Places to see in Nuwara Eliya. Sri Lanka. 

Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as "Little England," is a charming town in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, known for its cool, temperate climate and colonial-era charm. Located at an elevation of about 1,868 meters, it enjoys pleasant weather year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. The town is surrounded by lush greenery, tea plantations, and misty mountains, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Popular attractions include Gregory Lake, Hakgala Botanical Garden, Seetha Amman Temple, and Pedro Tea Estate, all offering unique experiences from scenic boat rides to tea tasting. Nuwara Eliya is also a great base for hiking, with trails leading to places like Horton Plains and World’s End, offering breathtaking views. Bird watchers will find the area especially rewarding, with species such as the Sri Lanka Whistling Thrush and Yellow-eared Bulbul commonly spotted in the surrounding forests and grasslands. Whether you're exploring waterfalls, trekking through highland trails, or relaxing by the lake, Nuwara Eliya offers a refreshing escape into nature and tranquility.

1. Gregory Lake – A scenic lake ideal for boating, paddle boating, and picnics. It's a relaxing spot with food stalls and horse rides around the perimeter.

2. Hakgala Botanical Garden – Renowned for its stunning display of roses, orchids, and exotic plants, especially beautiful during spring.

3. Pedro Tea Estate – Offers guided tours showcasing the tea-making process, ending with a refreshing cup of authentic Ceylon tea.

4. Seetha Amman Temple – A vibrant Hindu temple linked to the Ramayana, believed to be where Sita was held captive by Ravana.

5. Lover’s Leap Waterfall – A charming waterfall reached via a short and scenic hike, with panoramic views of Nuwara Eliya.

6. Victoria Park – A well-maintained town park ideal for quiet walks, picnics, and spotting rare bird species.

7. Nuwara Eliya Post Office – A colonial-era red-brick building that's both functional and one of the most photographed spots in town.

8. Galway’s Land National Park – A small forest reserve teeming with birds and wildlife, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

9. Ambewela Farm – A working dairy farm where visitors can see livestock, learn about agriculture, and taste fresh dairy products.

10. Moon Plains – An open plateau offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys; ideal for nature walks.

11. Horton Plains (Cloud Forest) – A UNESCO-listed national park with montane grasslands, misty forests, and rich biodiversity.

12. Bomburu Ella Waterfall – A wide and powerful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, best accessed via a short trek.

13. Devon Waterfall – Nicknamed the “Veil of the Valley,” this is one of Sri Lanka's most beautiful cascading waterfalls.

14. St. Clare’s Waterfall – A picturesque twin waterfall known for its width and easily viewable from the road.

15. Nuwara Eliya Post Office – (Duplicate entry) A historic colonial structure and postcard-perfect landmark in the heart of town.

16. Piduruthalagala Mountain – The tallest mountain in Sri Lanka; the summit can be accessed by vehicle for breathtaking views.

17. Hiking to World’s End (Horton Plains) – A dramatic cliff drop offering one of Sri Lanka's most iconic views after a beautiful nature trek.

18. Trek to Single Tree Hill – A relatively easy hike offering panoramic views of Nuwara Eliya and its lush tea estates.

19. Golf at Nuwara Eliya Golf Club – Play a round at this historic 18-hole course surrounded by misty hills and colonial charm.

20. Trek to Shanthipura – Visit the highest village in Sri Lanka for sweeping vistas and a taste of rural mountain life.

21. Horseback Riding – Enjoy leisurely rides around Gregory Lake or the historic racecourse grounds.

22. Boating or Jet Skiing at Gregory Lake – Thrilling water activities with equipment available for rent right by the lake.

23. Tea Tasting Tours – Sample a variety of Ceylon teas at estates like Pedro and Bluefield while learning about tea production.

24. Bird Watching – Spot endemic and migratory species at hotspots like Horton Plains, Galway’s Land, and Victoria Park.

25. Visit Local Markets – Explore the vibrant Nuwara Eliya town market for local fruits, vegetables, and handmade souvenirs.

26. Attend the April Season Festival – A lively seasonal celebration with horse races, flower shows, and car rallies attracting locals and tourists alike.