Nuwara Eliya: Sri Lanka’s Little England
Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya, meaning the City of Light, is located in the central province of Sri Lanka and is considered the most important region for tea production, with the coolest temperatures in the country, ranging from 10-21 degree celsius. Explore the tea estates, the lakes, picturesque landscapes and historic buildings as you discover the elegance and old school charm of Sri Lanka’s Little England.

Key Attractions

Victoria Park
Victoria Park in Nuwara Eliya is a beautifully landscaped park offering lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and peaceful walking paths. Located in the heart of the town, it is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic surrounded by nature. The park is home to a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching. With its cool climate and serene ambiance, Victoria Park also features a small lake, adding to the charm of the surroundings. This tranquil haven provides a refreshing escape, ideal for nature lovers and families.

Gregory Lake
Gregory Lake, located in the heart of Nuwara Eliya, is a reservoir constructed by British Governor by the name of Sir William Gregory in 1873. Gregory Lake used to be a bog back in the day and had been through some times of tribulation. But once it was renovated by Sir Gregory, the lake was later stocked with fish by a Government Agent (C. J. R. Le Mesurier) in 1881 (which accounts for much of the fauna within it); and in 1913, the lake’s water was directed through a tunnel to power a hydro power station, which it continues to do to this day.

Horton Plains National Park
The Horton Plains National Park, situated in Ohiya (roughly an hour away from Nuwara Eliya), is arguably the most popular attraction within the Central Province. The hazy plains is a goldmine of flora and fauna, with excellent grassy terrains to trek and even rivers running slithering lines along the bases of its facades. On average, its plains reach up to 6,900 to 7,500 ft in height, and grasslands and cloud forests cover its surfaces. The plains are the headwaters of three rivers; namely the Kelani, Mahaweli, and Walawe.

Pedro Tea Estate
Sri Lanka is famous for its ‘Ceylon tea’, which is a favourite of many tea enthusiasts around the world. If you’re into tea as much as we are, we suggest you head on over to the Pedro Tea Estate, located roughly 3-4km from Nuwara Eliya.

Ambewela Farm
Located in the hill station known as Ambewela (also fondly called ‘Little New Zealand’) is the famous Ambewela Farm. About 17km away from Nuwara Eliya, the farm seems rather out of place compared to the rest of Sri Lanka.

Seetha Amman Kovil
If you’re familiar with the Ramayana (the world’s largest ancient piece of classical literature), you’ll be familiar with Seetha, King Ravana and Rama. What do these characters have to do with Sri Lanka? According to the story, about 5,000 years ago, Seetha was held captive by King Ravana here, and Rama had to rescue her. And so, the Seetha Amman Kovil, commemorating Seetha, was built there.