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Nuwara Eliya

Sri Lanka, Asia

Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as 'Little England', is famous for its stunning tea plantations, cool climate, and colonial architecture. Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka's hill country, this picturesque town offers breathtaking landscapes, including the lush greenery of the tea estates and lush gardens filled with vibrant flowers. Key attractions include Hakgala Botanical Gardens, the scenic Gregory Lake, and nearby the iconic Pidurutalagala, the highest mountain in Sri Lanka. Its charming ambiance and unique British colonial heritage make it a must-visit destination.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-4 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Colombo Ratmalana

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

11 Best Things to Do in Nuwara Eliya

1. Explore Nuwara Eliya City

Stroll through charming streets and colonial architecture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

2. Visit Gregory Lake

Enjoy boating and scenic views at this serene lake.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

3. Tour a Tea Plantation

Learn about tea production and enjoy tastings.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

4. Hike to Adam's Peak

Experience a spiritual journey and stunning sunrise views.

Seasonal

Adults only

Booking required

8 hrs

5. Visit Victoria Park

Relax in lush gardens and enjoy local flora.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

6. Explore Hakgala Botanical Gardens

Discover exotic plants in beautifully landscaped gardens.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

7. Visit the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club

Play golf in a picturesque mountain setting.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

8. See the Tea Museum

Learn about Sri Lanka's tea history and culture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

9. Visit the Seetha Amman Temple

Explore this colorful temple dedicated to Hindu mythology.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

10. Shop at the local market

Experience local culture through food and crafts.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

11. Taste local cuisine

Indulge in traditional Sri Lankan dishes and flavors.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-6 (#109 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Sri Lanka Rupee

Majority religion

Buddhist

Language

Sinhala

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Sri Lankan Rice and Curry

VE

Rice served with various curries. (National dish)

Kottu Roti

VE

Chopped roti stir-fried with vegetables.

Hoppers (Appa)

VE

Fermented rice flour pancakes.

Pol Sambol

VE

Coconut sambol with chili and onion.

Lamprais

Rice and meat wrapped in banana leaves.

Phrases to learn

English

Sinhala

Hello

Ayubowan

(Ah-yoo-boh-wahn)

Yes/No

Ow / Nae

(Ow / Neh)

Thank you

Sthūti

(S-thoo-tee)

Excuse me

Samāvenda

(Sah-mah-ven-dah)

How much?

Keeyada?

(Kee-ya-da)