
Nuwara Eliya City Tour
The best time to take a Nuwara Eliya city tour is during the March to May period, when the weather is pleasant and cool, making it ideal for outdoor activities. However, the town can be visited year-round due to its mild climate, though the weather can be misty and rainy during the monsoon season (May to September).
1. Nuwara Eliya Town
- Colonial Architecture: Nuwara Eliya has a distinct British colonial charm, with many buildings designed in the style of English country homes, cottages, and bungalows. A stroll around the town reveals landmarks such as the Grand Hotel, Hill Club, and Lovers’ Leap.
- Victoria Park: This well-maintained park, located in the heart of the city, is a perfect place for a relaxing walk or a picnic. It’s also a good spot for birdwatching, as it’s home to several species of birds.
- Nuwara Eliya Post Office: Built in 1828, this charming colonial building has a Tudor-style façade. It’s a popular photo stop for visitors.
2. Gregory Lake
- A beautiful, man-made lake created during British rule, Gregory Lake is one of Nuwara Eliya’s main attractions. Visitors can enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, or just strolling along the promenade.
- The area around the lake is lush and green, offering scenic views and a calm atmosphere. It’s a great spot for picnics and photography, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the mist covers the area.
3. Hakgala Botanical Gardens
- Located about 10 kilometers from Nuwara Eliya, the Hakgala Botanical Gardens are known for their collection of beautiful plants, including roses, orchids, and many species of medicinal plants.
- The garden is situated at the foot of Hakgala Rock and is one of the oldest botanical gardens in Sri Lanka. It’s also a great place to enjoy a peaceful walk amidst a variety of trees, plants, and flowers.
4. Pedro Tea Estate
- Nuwara Eliya is famous for its tea plantations, and a visit to one of the estates, such as Pedro Tea Estate, offers an insight into Sri Lanka's tea production.
- You can take a guided tour of the plantation, see how tea leaves are plucked and processed, and enjoy a fresh cup of tea in the factory’s tasting room.
- The estate is set against the backdrop of lush green hills, offering scenic views of the plantation and surrounding landscape.
5. Sri Bhakta Hanuman Temple
- This temple, located a little outside the town, is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, a prominent deity in Hinduism. The temple is a unique stop in Nuwara Eliya and is a significant cultural site for Hindu visitors.
- The temple offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and the nearby Sita Amman Temple, which is also a notable religious site.
6. Lake View Point
- The Lake View Point offers panoramic views of Gregory Lake and the surrounding hills, making it a popular spot for photography. The cool climate and the view of the lake against the misty mountains make it a serene place to visit, especially in the early morning or late evening.
7. Nuwara Eliya Golf Course
- For golf enthusiasts, the Nuwara Eliya Golf Course, which dates back to 1889, is one of the oldest in Asia. The 18-hole course is beautifully situated amidst the hills and offers a challenging yet scenic game.
- Visitors can either play a round of golf or simply relax at the clubhouse, enjoying the views and the cool mountain air.
8. Lovers' Leap Waterfall
- This beautiful waterfall is located about 5 kilometers from Nuwara Eliya. It’s named Lovers' Leap due to a local legend about a young couple who leapt to their death from the falls.
- The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a great spot for a short hike and taking in the natural beauty.
9. Seetha Amman Temple
- This Hindu temple, dedicated to Sita, the wife of Lord Rama, is located in the area where it is believed that Sita was held captive by the demon king Ravana, according to the Ramayana epic.
- The temple is an important site for Hindu devotees, and visitors can learn about the legend while exploring the peaceful surroundings.
10. The St. Andrew’s Church
- Built in 1837, St. Andrew's Church is one of the oldest churches in Sri Lanka and a beautiful example of British colonial architecture. It is still active today and offers a peaceful setting for reflection.
Additional Things to Do:
- Shopping: Nuwara Eliya offers a variety of local markets and shops selling hand-made items, tea, and fresh produce. The Central Market is a great place to buy local fruits, vegetables, and souvenirs.
- Cultural Experiences: Nuwara Eliya has a mix of Sri Lankan and colonial culture. You can find English-style tea gardens and pubs alongside Sri Lankan temples and traditional shops.