Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya: Sri Lanka’s Little England in the Hills.
About Nuwara Eliya
Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya is a picturesque hill station that offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush tea plantations, colonial-era architecture, and cool climate, it's no wonder this city is often referred to as 'Little England'. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of manicured gardens, pristine lakes, and breathtaking viewpoints that make Nuwara Eliya a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and travelers seeking a serene getaway.
Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Sri Lanka at an elevation of around 1,868 meters, Nuwara Eliya boasts lush tea plantations that stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a carpet of vibrant green. Also known as 'Little England', this city shows off colonial-era architecture, highly manicured gardens and tea plantations in a refreshing climate and stunning landscapes. Stately Hill Club, Red-brick post office, Horton Plains, Hakgala Botanical Garden, Lake Gregory and the breathtaking World's End viewpoint are must-visit places in the area for nature enthusiasts. Nuwara Eliya is a charming hill station renowned for its cool climate and breathtaking beauty.Location & Information
Everything you need to know about getting to and around Nuwara Eliya.
Quick Facts
Province
Central Province
Distance
The distance from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo to Nuwara Eliya is approximately 160 kilometers (100 miles) by road.
Climate
Nuwara Eliya, located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, has a subtropical highland climate with cool temperatures and relatively high rainfall. The average temperature ranges from 16°C (61°F) annually. It experiences no distinct dry season, and the weather can be cloudy, especially during the monsoon season.
Elavation
Nuwara Eliya is at an altitude of 1,868 m (6,128 ft) and is considered to be the most important location for tea production in Sri Lanka.
Key Highlights of Nuwara Eliya
Tea Plantation & Factory Tour
- Explore lush highland tea estates and learn about tea processing.
- Visit a working tea factory—watch grading, drying, and taste fresh Ceylon tea.
Horton Plains & World’s End Hike
- Trek the misty trails of Horton Plains National Park.
- Marvel at the dramatic cliff drop‑off known as World’s End and Baker’s Falls.
Colonial & “Little England” Charm
- Stroll through Nuwara Eliya’s colonial town centre—post office, church, Golf Club, Hill Club.
- Admire Tudor‑style buildings and grand hotels evoking British era nostalgia.
Lake Gregory & Victoria Park
- Enjoy a lakeside walk, boat ride or horseback around scenic Lake Gregory.
- Relax in Victoria Park’s flower gardens and bird‑watching trails.
Seetha Amman Temple (Ashok Vatika)
- Visit the historic Hindu temple tied to the Ramayana legend of Sita.
Hakgala Botanical Garden
- Wander through Sri Lanka’s second-largest botanical garden with roses, orchids & temperate flora.
Scenic Waterfalls & Ambewela Dairy
- Stop at waterfalls en route (e.g. Ramboda Falls) and visit Ambewela farm to learn about tea/dairy.
Getting to and Around Nuwara Eliya
By Train
Scenic coastal train from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya (4–5 hours). Book in advance for reserved seats.
Book Train TicketsBy Bus
Regular buses from Colombo and Nuwara Eliya. Affordable but can be crowded during peak season.
Book Train TicketsBy Taxi
Private taxis available from airports and major cities. Most convenient but more expensive option.
Book Train TicketsTravel Tips
- The road can be busy during peak season – allow extra travel time
- Tuk-tuks are great for getting around Nuwara Eliya and nearby Places
- Download maps for offline use as mobile coverage can be spotty in some areas
Featured Tours in Nuwara Eliya
Discover the best experiences and activities that Nuwara Eliya has to offer with our handpicked selection of tours.
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