You can reach Nuwara Eliya by traveling through narrow roads, lush green valleys, tea gardens on the banks and slopes of the hills, and passing tiny streams and waterfalls.The unique climate is often covered by mist in the mornings. It also has a cold air that is tangy and fresh. Nuwara Eliya is located among the most beautiful tea estates. It also boasts the Race Course, Horses, Rose Gardens, and British-style Houses. This makes it a wonderful vacation getaway, providing a level of perfection that is unmatched.
Locals people often visit Nuwara Eliya in April and May, when the climate is coolest. Many British tourists feel like they are in England when visiting Nuwara Eliya. All foreign tourists to Sri Lanka make it a point of visiting Nuwara Eliya in order to experience its "Home away from home" feeling. Many foreigners have given the town the nickname "Little England", which it is. It is easy to remember the British era with its pink brick Victorian Post Office.
The golf course, one of the most beautiful in Sri Lanka, blends beautifully with the tea plantations to one side and fauna, flora, and small streams to the other, running between them. Nuwara Eliya is home to the finest fresh vegetables. Nuwara Eliya has a well-planned town that still maintains its English charm. You can enjoy a relaxing walk around Lake Gregory, which offers stunning views and breathtaking vistas. The backdrop of rugged mountains and clear blue skies makes for a spectacular back drop. You can also see water falls in and around Nuwara Eliya.
Dr. John Davy is the first to write a detailed account of Nuwara Eliya in the last few centuries. In 1819 he had visited Nuwara Eliya during a trekking expedition. He accessed Nuwara Eliya from Uva. Nuwara Eliya was not inhabited at that time. The Nuwara Eliya valley was surrounded by thick forest on the slopes and grass patnas throughout the valleys. He and his group only made a brief visit. It was possible to find traces of older irrigation systems, as well as an inscription stone that stated that offerings were made to a Buddhist vihara. Later, this was moved to the Nuwara Eliya town premises by Kachcheri.
Nuwara Eliya is the name of the "City of Light". Through the island's history Nuwara has been referred to as a Royal Township. The meaning of Eliya isn't very clear, but it could be Patana, which is located in the thick forests of highland. This area gets full sun, so there is ample "light" or Eliya. There are a few more names like SitaEliya, MahaEliya (Horton Plains), and HandaEliya in the area of Nuwara Eliya. These areas can also be attributed as plains.
This Nuwara Eliya plains was visited by an Elephant hunting group in 1826. Since the hillsides and Nuwara Eliya valley were surrounded by undisturbed forests, elephants used to frequent these areas. The Governor Edward Barnes heard this episode about the hunting party that had been exposed to the 36 Fdeg climate as well as the geological features of the area. Later, he initiated the road to Nuwara Eliya via Ramboda. This made Nuwara Eliya more accessible to entrepreneurs who converted Nuwara Eliya into a model British village.
This mountainous area was known as "Malaya Rata" in the past. It encompassed the current Kothmale Valley and Hewaheta as well as Nuwara Eliya, Walapane, and Nuwara Eliya. Due to a dispute between his father, the King of Magama, and Prince Dutugemunu in the 2nd Century BC he lived in Kothmale disguise. He became King of Magampura after the death of his father and then became King of the ununified Sri Lanka. On the hillsides of Nuwara Eliya, there were traces of mining for Iron ore and Gems. Henry Cave stated in 1900 that several moonstones from the "Moon Plains area" were discovered. He also states that there are remnants of ancient irrigation systems, "which must have required immense labour and great engineering skills." Sir Samuel Baker (1848-1896) believed that this area's ancient importance was due to its origination of water for the national rivers. Around two thousand years ago, the rivers that flowed through Anuradhapura's low country supplied many man-made tanks (wewa), with water for rice cultivation. To protect the banks of waterways, masonry ruins were found in ravines. The waterways in these areas were mostly dry and covered with trees during his observations.
Henry W. Cave is a British author well-known for his many books on Ceylon. He has given a rich tribute to Nuwara Eliya in his book "Golden Tips - A Description of Ceylon and Its Great Tea Industry" (year of publication- 1900). "Seven Thousand miles from London, six degrees above the equator, and 6,200 feet above the sea level, lies this rare retreat. Its precious attributes are not long ago unaccessible to thousands.
The Engadine has its beautiful scenery, Egypt its healing climate, Brazil its wild wilderness, Peru its high plateau, and the Alps its flowery meadows. But here in one of our colonies, all this and more are available and without any serious drawbacks.
Henry W. Cave compares Nuwara Eliya's climate and landscape to the West Highlands of Scotland. It is also said to have the most healthy and purest air, with the best temperature for Europeans. He said that one can drive for up to an hour to escape the humid atmosphere and rainclouded skies and reach the sunny plains or the dry hills if he chooses.
Although Mr. Cave's writings may not be as relevant today, the world has changed dramatically over the past 110 years. However, the traveller of the future can still get at least a glimpse of what Mr. Cave experienced back then. He discovered the beautiful, unspoiled ecology of Sri Lanka at that time. It had been there for many centuries. Horton Plains is one of many conservation areas that protect the ecology of this area. In 100 years, what we see today might not be the same as it was 100 years ago. This is evident from the writings of prominent authors Henry Cave, Sir Samuel Baker, W.T.Kebly and Dr. John Davy on Nuwara Eliya's surroundings. What they saw back then is not there now.
The famous Nuwara Eliya upcountry village is located at 1868m (6128ft) above the sea level. It is part of Nuwara Eliya district. It has a Sub Tropical Highland climate due to its high elevation. The average annual temperature ranges between 11-20 Cdeg. The lowest recorded temperature is 0.4 Cdeg, while the highest recorded temperature is 27.7 Cdeg. Monthly rainfall ranges between 70-225mm. The average annual precipitation or rainfall is 1900mm. The month with the most rainfall is October, while March has the lowest. It has a relative humidity of 65%-87% throughout the year. Pidurutalagala, Sri Lanka's highest mountain at 2,527m (8,292ft), can be seen from this place. This mountain was known as Mount Pedro during the British period. The mountain is considered a high-security area because the summit is used for state communication towers and TV transmission towers. Horton Plains, located south of Nuwara Eliya, is a unique Ecological Zone of Wet Patana Grassland and a Cloud Forest. Nuwara Eliya's district covers 1741 sq. Km. Km. One can access Nuwara Eliya through Kandy- Nuwara Eliya road via Gampola, Kandy -Nuwara Eliya road via Hanguranketha and Walapane, Badulla- Nuwara Eliya Road , Haputale- Nuwara Eliya road, Avissavella- Nuwara Eliya road via Hatton and through Bandarawela- Nuwara Eliya road. Nuwara Eliya lies approximately 75 km from Kandy (along A5 Main Road), and 90 Km away from Ginigathhena, (along A7 Main Road). The Nuwara Eliya District is well-known for its Tea Plantation. The cool, moist climate allows the Tea leaves to thrive. Near Nuwara Eliya, you will find areas such as Hatton and Talawakele. Tea grown in these regions has a high market value and is highly sought after worldwide. The famous waterfalls of Devon and St.Clair are close to Nuwara Eliya. A popular tourist attraction is the Lake Gregory, located in the middle of the city.
Physically, Nuwara Eliya lies in the middle the country's highest Peneplain, which is a flat land surface with an advanced stage erosion. It is made up of mountain ranges, plateaus, basins, and massifs. This peneplain's southern border runs approximately 50 miles from Sri Pada (or Adam's Peak) at 7,360 feet, which is on the Western side of Namunukula (6.360 feet) on the Eastern side. The High Plains, which runs from the South to North, extends between Kirigalpotta (7 875 feet) or Pidurutalagala (8922) feet. Near this Pidurutalagala Mountain, Nuwara Eliya is situated.
With an area of approximately 4000 sq. miles, the highlands of Sri Lanka could be described as a major upheaval in land mass. miles. Four large ledges rise from the massive upheaval's base. These ledges are made up of mountain ranges at different elevations, ranging from 5000 to 8000 feet above the sea level. Pidurutalagala is the highest of these mountains at 8280 feet. It is located 3 miles north of Nuwara Eliya. The plain where Nuwara Eliya lies is over 6000 feet above sea level. The plain measures approximately 6 miles long and 1 1/2 miles wide. This area's circumference is estimated to be approximately 15 miles. The entire plain was divided in two sections around 1833 before any plantations were made. A thick stripe of forest appeared in the middle. The plain was surrounded with steep rocky mountains, which were covered by thick forests from the surface of the plain to the top of these tall and irregularly shaped mountains. Nuwara Eliya's temperature is not as high as the Tropical heat, but it can reach low temperatures that cause ice flakes to form on grass patna early in the morning. Through the hills surrounding Nuwara Eliya, there are four ways to access the Nuwara Eliya Plains. The gap at North-East leads into Kotmale valley, while the South-East gap leads towards Uva basin. The West gap leads to Dimbula valley. Udapussellawa is accessible through the East gap. Kikilimana (7340 feet, 1 Mile NW of Nuwara Eliya), Kudugala (77607 feet), Totupola (7746ft), Kirigalpotta (7832ft), Kirigalpotta (7832ft), Lover's Leap (798 feet), 2 miles E from Nuwara Eliya) and One Tree Hill (66903 feet) are some other important mountains and places surrounding Nuwara Eliya.
The Hethersett tea plantation factory played an important role in Sri Lanka's development and helped Pure Ceylon Tea become the most loved beverage in the world. Hethersett tea was the first to sell for the highest price anywhere in the world. It was Ceylon's first silver tip tea. Hethersett tea was sold in London's Mincing Lane for PS1.10s.6d in 1891. This was more than thirty times the average price of 1s0d per pound.
James Taylor, a Scotsman from Scotland, was the first to grow tea commercially in Ceylon, which became Sri Lanka in 1972. He established Loolecondera in Kandy in 1867. Taylor planted 20 acres of tea from Indian seed with Dr.Thwaites' encouragement. This was a smart move, as soon after, a terrible blight decimated the coffee plantations that Ceylon relied on. Desperate planters looked for alternative crops such as tea and cinchona (for Quinine). Within a decade of Taylor planting tea, there were 5000 acres in Kandy and Nuwara Eliya.
The government sold Kandapola's virgin crown land to pioneer planters during the 1870s in response to their requests for plantations. Mr.W. was one of the bidders. Flowerdew. He was the original planter-proprietor and agent, as well as the resident manager at Hethersett estate. He planted 150 acres with cinchona on 250 acres. The pioneer was Flower dew. He camped in the wilderness that he bought and worked alongside Indian labourers. He built a log cabin using boards cut from trees to open the land before clearing it and planting it. The roof was made from foliage and thatch. It was a tough and primitive life. Flowerdew's roots can be traced back to the name he gave his plantation. It seems that he named it Hethersett after a small village in the southwest of Norwich, England. It could have been his hometown, as Flowerdew can still be found in the Norwich region.
Poopanie is the Tamil name for this plantation. It means Flowers of Frost in English. This is a beautiful way to describe the cold mist that sometimes descends on Hethersett at 6800 feet above sealevel, but only six degrees from Equator. The plantation name is actually a translation into Tamil of Flowerdew's English name.
Jas, Flowerdew's partner in the first year of his plantation life, was his partner. R. Jenkins was an experienced tea planter and advised Flowerdew to grow tea along with cinchona. Although it is not known what happened to Flowerdew, the history of tea plantations shows that he sold it by 1881. A temporary manager, A.C.W. Clarke was the manager and the estate was under the control of Jas. Whittall was the agent for Whittall's own company Whittall& Co.
In the early days of tea, the agent was crucial. An estate proprietor was usually an individual or business based in England that needed an agent in Colombo for support and supplies to the manager of the plantation. The crop was sold by a broker.
Whittall& Co. remained agents for a while, but ownership was transferred to Mr.J. MacAndrew. K. MacAndrew was an experienced planter and became the resident manager. Hethersett was 254 acres of tea and cinchona plantation in 1885. Cinchona was a cash crop, while the MacAndrews nurtured tea. K. MacAndrews was also manager at Denmark Hill, a neighboring estate. This was the start of a relationship that saw green leaf from Denmark Hill processed at the Hethersett plant to make tea.
Hethersett's early sales in London of Hethersett tea and its record-breaking selling price in 1891 established the legendary Hethersett brand, which has become synonymous with pure Ceylon Tea quality. Hethersett was absorbed by Nuwara Eliya Tea Estates Company Limited, which grew to a combined 3000-acre holding. Leechman& Co. were agents in Colombo for the Company, which was registered in London. Hethersett formed an association with the two companies. This was to last for 75 years before nationalization.
His agency was founded by George Leechman in 1866. His agency house was established in 1866. He was previously a partner in Wilson, Ritchie & Co. This company was founded by Wilson, Ritchie & Co., Ltd., the current managers of Hethersett. Hethersett's Silver Tips (a hand-rolled sun-dried whole leaf tea) was produced at a tea factory downhill from where the village creche is now located. The original structure was made of small wood and expanded under John Mac Tier, a young planter.
Mac Tier was just 27 when he arrived at Hethersett, in 1900. The tea plantations were spread over 270 acres. He stayed there for 25 years and died suddenly at 52 in the Hethersett factory. In Nuwara Eliya there is a plaque that honors his memory. Mac Tier was a loyal employee of the company, and reported annual dividends between 9% to 12%.
The factory's tea was transported by bullock carts along the rough tracks to Kandapola Railway Station. Tea from there traveled to market in tea boxes. In 1903, the narrow gauge railway line opened from Ragalla to Nuwara Eliya. It was closed in 1940. The tea chests were moved to NanuOya and then sent to Colombo for delivery. The tea chests were shipped by steamship to Australia or England after the auction. It took just one hour to travel by train from Nuwara Eliya to Kandapola. The engine, which looked like a toy, puffed through the hills and weaved along the tracks. It could travel six miles an hour at its maximum speed.
Cyril Travers Nettleton was an unofficial police magistrate and the Hethersett planter for a few years after Mac Tier. He is also buried at Holy Trinity Church. He was in charge of Concordia Group which includes Hethersett when he died in 1944. A.J. succeeded him at Hethersett. Waterfall. The original wooden factory was destroyed in Waterfall's time.
To create the modern hotel, the head of a hill was shaved. It was considered a marvel of engineering when it was constructed in the middle of the 1930s. It didn't have a stem or water to power it. Mains electricity was not available. Only an oil-fired engine with fly-wheels, pulleys, and fly-wheels, powered the large fans that heat the tea and the rollers and sifters.
The factory made high quality orthodox teas, both in whole and broken leaves, which were exported. The tea from Denmark Hill was transported to the factory in sacks by a wire that ran across the valley. This wire separated the two estates. From the 1940s through 1960s, Hethersett's planters were capable and friendly men from Britain. Gordon Windus was the manager during most of the 1940s. He was also a member the Nuwara Eliya Hill Club. He testified in the visitor's log that he suggested that peas from the gardens be served. The Hethersett villager remembers Windus for the many agricultural projects he initiated. There was also a piggery in the village, and a vegetable garden in the Kuruwatta jungle. John Bousfield, a planter, used to be a surprise to the laborers and would work in the fields himself, trimming the tea bushes. He is believed to have harvested the most tea from the bushes he pruned.
J. M. E. Waring was another British planter who took over Hethersett late in 1950s and later, as group manager, managed the factory's closing. When inspecting the fields, he owned a horse. This horse was also used by him to race with a jockey at the Nuwara Eliya races. The Hethersett factory was no more. The machinery was considered outdated and uneconomical. The factory was shut down because of the need to cut costs. For manufacture, the Hethersett green leaves were sent to other factories within the Concordia group.
The factory was used for three years as a warehouse to store refuse tea after it had been made. Few people were hired to sort the fiber and extract any tea left for local consumption. The remaining residue was used as fertilizer. In 1973, the factory was closed. It remains as a silent reminder of the glory days of Pure Ceylon Tea.
It was discovered by chance in 1992 by Mr.G. C. Wickremasinghe would change all that. A director of Aitken Spence & Co., Ltd., Mr. Wickremasinghe was visiting Udapussellawa Plantation Ltd., when he spotted the factory through the misty hills. The factory shell was well-located and sturdy. He saw the potential to make it a luxury hotel. This idea was matched by NihalBodhinayake, an architect. The Hethersett Tea Factory has been rehabilitated as a hotel and is poised to be as successful in tourism as it was in producing top-quality tea.
Victoria Park is located in Nuwara Eliya's heart. This park is ideal for family outings, where tourists can see exotic birds and rare flowering plants. There is also a children's playground and rides that make it enjoyable for all ages. It is a great place to take beautiful photos because of the pretty flowers and serene ponds. Victoria Park is located in the middle of Nuwara Eliya. Before you can get in, you will need to pay an entry fee. This is a great place to take a walk or picnic.
You may visit Sri Lanka to see the many beautiful sights it has to offer, but sometimes all you need to do is have a nice garden for a picnic with your family or to take a stroll in the countryside. Sri Lanka has you covered! Victoria Park is home to beautiful exotic birds and flowers that will bring joy to any tourist's heart. It can be found in Nuwara Eliya's heart, near the Nuwara Eliya post office on the PBC Highway. It is well-known for its well-manicured trees, bushes, and has received positive reviews regarding its regular maintenance.
Victoria Park is famous for its rare and beautiful flowering plants. You can also look for and spot exotic birds such as the Kashmir Flycatcher, Indian Blue Robin, Grey Tit, and many others. There is also a children's playground and a mini-train for tourists. You can feel like a child again and go back to your childhood. It is a great place to have picnics, get togethers, or just for a stroll in the evening. Tourists in Sri Lanka must visit this park because it is easy to access.
The famous Pedro Tea Estate is located approximately 3.5 km from Nuwara Eliya. It is famous for growing Pure Ceylon Tea on the terraces at the Pidurutalagala Mountain. The workers can help you pick the tea leaves and take you to the fields. You can also enjoy a cup of quality Pure Ceylon Tea in the outdoor cafe. You can visit the tea factory, where you can see how the tea is made before it is exported. Visit the estate in the morning, or after 2:00 pm.
We all love to get started in the morning with a cup of hot tea. Have you ever wondered how the fresh spring green leaves become your perfect dark tea leaves? The tea factory and Pedro Tea Estate will guide you through the entire process of selecting and growing the best tea leaves. This beautiful tea estate is located on the Pidurutalagala Mountain, just a few kilometers from Nuwara Eliya. This is where the Pure Ceylon Tea variety of tea is grown. It is then exported and made well-known worldwide.
Tourists are allowed to meet the tea workers and even pick their leaves. Tourists can then visit the tea factory to see how the tea leaves are dried, processed and packed for export. Tourists can also enjoy fresh tea at the Pedro Tea Estate's outdoor cafe. You can also buy exceptional quality Pure Ceylon Tea here to take home and gift your friends and family. The tea estate is open from 8 AM to 2 PM.
Lake Gregory is a local reservoir located in Nuwara Eliya. Tourists love to visit the lake and take part in some of its recreational activities. The British era saw Sir William Gregory as the name of the lake in 1873. You can hire boats to explore the lake. The lake is a great spot for picnicking. Tourists can also hire bicycles to explore the lake. This lake is best visited in April.
You can hire small boats to go boating on the lake or speedboating. Tourists have the option to ride a pony or cycle around the lake. Enjoy a picnic by the lake or a relaxing evening walk along Gregory Lake with your family. You can also find small restaurants nearby so that you can enjoy some snacks as you explore the lake.
The farm is also known as New Zealand Farm. It's a hub for organic activities in the beautiful Ambewela hill station landscape. Ambewela is known for its lush green fields and rugged mountains. The bright blue sky also gives it the title of "Little New Zealand". It is pleasant to drive along the scenic route, which takes you past vegetable farms, lakes, and forests. World's End is a famous attraction in the area. It is a cliff that has a depth of over 1200m. Visitors often use this spot to take pictures.
Ambewela, a beautiful hill station in Central Province of Sri Lanka's Nuwara Eliya District is located in Ambewela. The farm covers an area of 1500 acres and is located 20km from Nuwara Eliya. Ambewela farm also has a cafeteria that specializes in organic dairy products. Locals and tourists love the milkshakes served in the cafeteria. It is always sunny on the farm. Temperatures range from 9degC up to 23degC with an average temperature of 17.5degC. This place is a treasure trove of beauty, with its misty, unspoiled landscape.
Families with children and families visit Ambewela farms most frequently. Ambewela farms, mountains and animals are a great place to take the family on a weekend getaway or for solitary exploration. Children can learn all about farming, animal husbandry and rural life. This slice of paradise is a tranquil and enjoyable place to relax.
Bluefield Tea Gardens is located at 6250 feet in Ramboda, a hilly, small, and look-alike English town. It feels fresh and beautiful. Bluefield Tea Factory was built in 1921 and produces an average of 20 Kilos of tea leaves. Tea connoisseurs know this tea garden because it produces the Sri Lankan Ceylon tea. In the garden, there are over 300 tea workers.
Nuwara Eliya has been called Sri Lanka's Strawberry Capital. Ambewela (the capital of strawberry cultivation) and Ragala (the most famous strawberry fields in Sri Lanka are Ambewela or Ragala). These two areas are known for their scenic plantation walks and tractor tours, which allow you to view the mountains and valleys from afar. You can also buy fresh strawberries and other strawberry-based products. You can also visit Adma Agro Strawberry Farm or Rose Garden Farms where you can enjoy strawberry drinks, icecreams, and pancakes.
Moon Plains, also known by Sandathanne in the past, has been open to the public since 2014. It quickly became one of the most popular biodiversity spots for tourists. It was once a trash dump, but it has been transformed into a park. Moon Plains can be found 6 km from Nuwara Eliya. One can see the majestic slanting plains against the backdrop of the hills of the Central Highlands when visiting Nuwara Eliya. Moon Plains is surrounded by lush green and mountain peaks, so you can see the entire country from one spot. The Mini World's End or the second World's End is also known. From Moon Plains, you can see the nine highest peaks, including Pidurutalagala. To reach the summit, you can rent jeeps as there are no personal vehicles. The Moon Plains, Sri Lanka, offer many highlights, including safari rides, closeness to nature, and diverse flora, fauna, among other things.
Shri Bhakta Hanuman Temple, a Hindu shrine situated on a hill at 3,200 feet above the sea level, is near Ramboda Falls. It boasts interesting legends, beautiful forest views and stunning lake views. The temple was built in 1981 by Chinmaya Mission and features a 16-foot-tall idol, Hanumanji, amidst tea plantations. It is surrounded by sixteen ashram rooms named Vibheeshan and Jambavan and Sugriva, respectively, based on Ramayana characters. On the grounds, a vegetarian restaurant is also available.
The Seetha Amman Temple, a small temple in the village SeethaEliya, Sri Lanka is located. It is located approximately one kilometer from the Hakgala Botanical Gardens and 5-6 kilometres from Nuwara Eliya, the capital city. It is dedicated to Sita Devi from the Ramayana. She is the daughter of Mother Earth, and the wife of Lord Rama. It is located on the spot where King Ravana believed Sita Devi to have been kept prisoner. You can also see Lord Hanuman's footprints on the temple premises, as well as the river Seetha where various deities were found.
The role of Sri Lanka in the whole epic of Ramayana plays a crucial part in Hindu mythology. Many places in Sri Lanka are based on The Ramayana. The Seetha Amman Temple, a temple dedicated Sita Devi (Lord Rama's wife), is one of these. It is located in SeethaEliya. Legend says that Ravana, the King of Lanka, had taken Sita captive and held her captive in "Ashok Vatika". The Seetha Amman Temple is located in the spot where Sita used to pray for Lord Rama's rescue.
The Seetha Amman Temple houses idols of Lord Rama and Lakshman, Devi Sita and Lord Hanuman. It is also where Lord Hanuman was known to have met Devi Sita in order to send her a message. The temple premises also contain a rock that allows you to see the footprints and footprints of Lord Hanuman. Near the temple is the Seetha River where Devi Sita bathed and prayed. About a kilometre from the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, and just a few kilometres from Nuwara Eliya is the Seetha Amman Temple. It is a historic monument with a lot to offer.
The second-largest botanical garden in Sri Lanka is the Hakgala Botanical Garden. It is part of the Hakgala Strict Nature Reserve, and was established 1861. The garden is home to many different species of plants, including some exotic animals. There are several sections that each section covers, which include ferns, cacti and orchids. It is located on the Badulla Highway, about 5 km from Nuwara Eliya. According to Hindu epic, "The Ramayana", the Hakgala Gardens actually was 'Ashok Vatika". The climate is mostly cool to moderately warm because these gardens are located on elevated ground.
The Hakgala Botanical Garden, Sri Lanka's second-largest, is one of the most famous and well-known botanical gardens. It was founded by Dr G.H.K. Thwaites was responsible for the experimentation with Cinchona growth. Each section of the garden is home to a different species. It is home to a remarkable biodiversity with exotic animals and birds coexisting with rare plants. The garden's average temperature is between 16 and 30 degrees Celsius, which makes it moderately hot or cold throughout the year.
The Hakgala Botanical Garden is on the Peradeniya-Badulla-Chenkaladi Highway, near the famous Seetha Amman Temple. It is believed that King Ravana's famous pleasure garden, The Ashok Vatika, was located here. This has historical significance to the Hindus. It takes approximately two hours to explore the garden and you can use a golf cart to move around. The garden is home to many exotic plants and rare wildlife. This creates beautiful biodiversity. It is one of many places in Sri Lanka that is closely linked to the Ramayana. The Hakgala Gardens is a must-visit, whether you are looking for a glimpse of Hindu culture or a way to connect with nature.
The Galway's Land National Park, located at 3km from Nuwara Eliya is one the most well-known parks in the city. Many exotic animals and birds coexist in the park to create biodiversity. Birdwatchers will find the park open early in the morning.
The park covers 57 hectares and has more than 30 bird species. There are also many other local animals species. Although the park was made a National Park in 2006, it was originally established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1938. The national park is located in Nuwara Eliya's central area, on the Havelock Road, within the Department of Wildlife Conservation.
Ramboda Falls is located in Kandy's Pussellawa region. This area is famous for its stunning landscapes of highlands, ridges and plains, streams, hills, and mountains. Ramboda Falls is the most popular attraction.
Ramboda, at 358 feet high, is Sri Lanka's 11th highest waterfall. The cool winds blow constantly and the steps of the rock fall like ivory cascades, creating a stunning scene against the blue sky. The climb uphill is only 2 km and can be done by anyone. Ramboda Falls ticks all the boxes for tourists in terms of its vivid landscapes, cosy climate and ability to keep them on their feet.
Ramboda is home to rare birds and beautiful sights. Ramboda Falls is a great place to relax and unwind with nature. It is a remarkable experience to be surrounded by the gushing waters, and their crackling sounds as they hit the rocks. People from central Sinhala's Pussellawa are warm and welcoming to visitors to their province. Ramboda is a unique experience in nature, far from commercialization!
The famous St. Clair’s Falls is a beautiful representation of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty. St. Clair's Falls, also known as the Niagara of Sri Lanka is located at 1198m. It is found in Nuwara Eliya'sTalawakele Town. St. Clair's falls is the largest in Sri Lanka.
The falls are located along the KotmaleOya, which is a tributary to the Mahaweli River. It is surrounded with mountains and the sky, which is filled with moving clouds. The attraction is in the location of the falls - there are three levels of rock and water gradients. Waters glide through the incisions to fall into a pool full of life.
The waterfalls are made up of two falls, "Maha Ella" - The Greater Fall, which measures 80m high and 50m wide and is 50m in width. The "Kuda Ella" - The Lesser Fall is 50m high. Named after the St. Clair tea estates that grow along the falls, the falls are named "Maha Ella - The Greater Fall"
Aberdeen Falls was named after a nearby tea plantation in Sri Lanka's Nuwara Eliya District. It is a stunning sight, with the waterfall surrounded in enchanting greenery. Although it is not an easy trek to the bottom, the pool formed by the water flowing from the waterfall is a great place to swim.
Laxapana Falls, located in Hatton in Nuwara Eliya District, is the eighth-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. It is a waterfall of silvery foam surrounded by lush greenery, which flows down to form a stunning natural pool at its bottom. MaskeliyaOya is a major tributary to the Kelaniriver. It is 413 feet high. This waterfall is breathtaking. The Old Laxapana Power Station (the oldest hydroelectric power station in the country), and the New Laxapana Power Station are also close by. The falls provide part of the station's energy.
The Lover's Leap waterfall is nestled among the tea plantation hills. The waterfalls are close enough that tourists can visit this spot when they visit Pedro Tea Estate. It is surrounded by myths and stories that make it more interesting and appealing. To reach the waterfalls, tourists must climb up the hill. This is a lesser-known tourist spot in Nuwara Eliya so that tourists can enjoy a leisurely tour of the area. It is located approximately 3.5 km from the city center and can be reached easily by local transport.
These hills are worth exploring and hiking up to find hidden waterfalls. This mysterious waterfall, known as the Lover's Leap, can be found in the area surrounding the Pedro Tea Estate. Many stories are told about how the waterfall got its name. Each one makes it even more fascinating. The view from the waterfall and the panoramic view of the city from the top will make you swoon at the end of your hike. It is not easy, but the trek is well worth it.
To see these waterfalls in their best light, it is best to visit them during the rainy season. The directions are clearly marked so it is easy to locate the waterfalls. On your journey, you will also come across the shrine of Lord Shiva. Tourists prefer to visit this waterfall in the afternoon after visiting the Tea Estate. It takes a bit of effort and some challenging climbing to reach the highest point in the city.
Devon Falls, a stunning waterfall that cascades over three levels on a tributary to the KotmaleOya River, is 97 metres tall. This striking waterfall is also known as the "Veil of the Valley" and can be found among beautiful tea plantations, tropical leaves, and craggy boulders at 1,159m above sea level. It is one of Sri Lanka's most visited attractions. You can also park at the roadside viewpoint.
Nanuoya Waterfall, which is located approximately 6 km from Nuwara Eliya has a height of 60 meters and flows down 25 steps. The water eventually flows down to join the Mahaweli-Kotmalerivers. This is a great spot to relax with its lush green surroundings, tranquil breeze, and freezing water (which many people take a dip when visiting the waterfall).
Kolapathana Waterfall is a waterfall that cascades down several steps to a height of approximately 50 meters. It has water coming from the Piduruthalagala reserve and Kodiaragala mountains overshadowing it. This stunning waterfall is located in Nuwara Eliya, near MandaramNuwara. It offers breathtaking views and makes for some great photos.
It is forbidden to bathe here because it is believed to be the source for freshwater for nearby towns. Instead, visitors can visit Purahangala bathing spot halfway down the trail and have some fun in the water.
Horton Plains National Park is located in Sri Lanka's central highlands at 2,300m. It includes montane grassland as well as cloudy forests. This protected area is home to many endangered flora & fauna species. It has spectacular jungles, mountains and plateaus on one side and stunning forests on the other. It is famous for its 880m steep plunge, where the plateau abruptly stops.
Hiking to World's End cliff is the most popular activity in Horton Plains National Park. World's End is surrounded by tea gardens and overlooks many lakes, waterfalls, rocks, and the sparkling ocean. The multi-tiered, 20-metre tall Baker's Waterfall is a popular stop on the hike. It's where you can take a dip during monsoon.
Horton Plains National Park was established in 1988 as a national park. It has attracted a large number of visitors since then. There are many wildlife species in the national park, including purple-faced langurs and Sri Lankan leopards. Red Slender Loris, Red Slender Loriss, Toque monkeys, magpies, and sambardeer. This region also has many woody plants.
Farr Inn is a British-colonial-style hunting lodge that has been converted into a meeting place for trekkers. This lodge has a cafe, souvenir shop, and museum that reflects the rich history of the national park.
Adam's Peak, a mountain of 7,359 feet in Sri Lanka is one of the most popular pilgrimage spots in the Indian subcontinent. It is visited frequently by people from almost all major religions. Sri Pada is a prominent symbol of this mountain's pyramid-shaped summit. It is also known as the sacred footprint. The Buddhists consider it to be Lord Buddha's footprint. Muslims believe it to be Adam's. Christians think it may be St. Thomas the Apostle's.
Pilgrims make their final ascent at the shrine perched atop the mountain. Adam's Peak is a magical spot that offers breathtaking views of the sunrise, aside from the legends surrounding it. The mountain peak can be reached via any of the six trails. The steps get steeper as you reach the summit. The hike takes between two and four hours for most people, regardless of their age or fitness level. Adam's Peak, an area of religious significance and a moderate challenge to enthusiastic hikers with breathtaking scenery around, is a must-see on any trip to Sri Lanka.
Bomburu Ella Falls (also known as Perawella Falls) is Sri Lanka's largest waterfall. Its streams collect water from about 10 small waterfalls at a height of 2000m above the sea level. The forest is located about 14 km from Nuwara Eliya. Although it can be a little difficult to walk through, the beautiful views and scenic routes make the hike much more enjoyable. You should also wear hiking shoes, as it can be slippery in the mud. You can also stop at the vendor to buy tasty snacks or tea.
Pidurutalagala, locally known as Mount Pedro is the highest mountain peak in the country. The peak, which stands at 2524m high, can be seen across Sri Lanka's entire Central Province. It also serves as the base for the country’s radar system. It is not open to the public.
Kirigalpotta, at 2388m high, is the second highest peak accessible by visitors. You can also reach the top by hiking the 7 km trail that runs through the Horton Plains National Park. Nuwara Eliya is the location of the mountain peak.
The 7-hour journey from Kandy and Badulla is a scenic broad-gauge train ride. It runs between Nuwara Eliya, Kandy or Ella. The blue train will take you past lush rice fields, tea estates, villages and giant mountains. It also crosses bridges with large drop-offs and waterfalls.
The train journey from Nuwara Eliya, to Ella, winds down through Sri Lanka's southern hills country. It crosses tea plantations, before winding up and disappearing into the clouds.It is truly spectacular, and one of the most beautiful train rides in Sri Lanka, if it's not the entire world.
Sinhalese New Year and Tamil New Year: April is a busy month for residents of Nuwara Eliya, a beautiful resort town. Celebrates and festivals begin in Nuwara Eliya on the Sinhalese New Year and are followed by a month-long celebration featuring various races, competitions, and activities. In April, the town hosts many activities. Large crowds flock to see Motor racing and horse races. Other events include: Badminton tournaments, Food festival, and Flower show.
By Air: All international flights depart from Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake (30 km from Colombo). Major airlines offer flights to and from most destinations. Nuwara Eliya lies further 180 km from Colombo. Nuwara Eliya Airport does not offer a transfer service. It is best to rent a taxi.
You can travel to Nuwara Eliya by train. There are trains from Colombo and Kandy to NanuOya, which is the closest railway station. Nuwara Eliya does not have its own railway station. One of the most spectacular and scenic views is found on the Colombo-Kandy - Nuwara Eliya stretch.
By Bus/Car: A bus runs from Colombo via Kandy and Hatton to Nuwara Eliya. Both routes offer breathtaking views. You might not find a connecting bus on the Hatton route. Instead, you will need to wait for another bus to take your to Nuwara Eliya. The Hatton route is a good option if you plan to travel by car. It is quieter and has a lower climb.
Safe Travels
