Geographically located amongst the peaks of Sri Lanka’s central mountains gives Nuwara Eliya two main characteristics; the first being an absolutely breath taking series of panoramic views all around and the second being a climate that is slightly colder than the tropical weather conditions that usually prevails. So if Nuwara Eliya is on your list of destinations, make sure to pack in some extra layers!
Nuwara Eliya possesses its own unique aesthetic. Picture mist covered mountains, tea plantations upon rolling hills, cloud forests, lakes, and a widespread variety of endemic and migratory flora and fauna; that’s Nuwara Eliya. The month of April is when this natural beauty is at its finest glory, and also when the communal life is most alive. Festivals and events are organized every year in celebration of the season, and activities like horse races, boat trips across the Gregory Lake, hikes and nature park treks are in full swing. There is always so much to do and look into during this season, as is proved by the crowds of both local and foreign tourists that flock to Nuwara Eliya during this time of the year!
The Horton Plains are by far the most populous site in the district, offering a hike trail through the montane grassland and cloud forest that characterize the national park. The plains are also headwaters of the country’s three most major rivers, and home of many animal and avian species endemic not just to Sri Lanka, but strictly restricted to the Horton Plains. The key point of attraction is the sheer precipice with an 870m drop located within the park, famously called the ‘World’s End’. Approximately 1km away is a smaller cliff with a drop of 300m, known as the ‘Mini World’s End’, and the Baker’s Falls located in the vicinity. It’s almost as if you’d stepped into another world- one that remains carefully hidden from the chaos and hectic atmosphere of life on the outside, one that rejoices nature in a most humble manner.
And of course, we have the tea plantations! Tea is Sri Lanka’s biggest export industry, and has been for over two centuries now. Nuwara Eliya is where most tea factories are located, surrounded by the greenery of the cultivations- rows upon rows inclined along the slopes of the rolling hills. Tours are allowed up and about most of these factories, where you find the staff and management more than pleased to explain to you about the processes in relation to the industry, and sampling of some of our world class brews!
Nuwara Eliya has been endearingly dubbed ‘Little England’, the hilly landscape and mist-shrouded mountains having reminded colonists of home. The cool climate, old-world charm, and resemblance to the English countryside really does justice to the nickname, even now, despite the years that have gone in past. There certainly is a sense of vintage to the city, that which makes Nuwara Eliya a serene escapade nostalgic of a bygone era.
If you are in hope of taking something back home with you in reminisce of Sri Lanka, be sure to check out our souvenirs section as you navigate through the website!
