Things To Do
in Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as 'Little England,' is a picturesque town located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. Known for its cool climate, lush tea plantations, and colonial architecture, it offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat of the lowlands. The town is surrounded by stunning mountains and valleys, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
With its beautiful gardens and serene lakes, Nuwara Eliya is a charming blend of British heritage and Sri Lankan culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the stunning Hakgala Botanical Gardens, where you can explore a diverse range of flora amongst beautiful landscapes.
Have lunch at a local café and then head to the famous Pedro Tea Estate for a guided tour and tea tasting experience.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll around Gregory Lake, followed by dinner at a cozy restaurant in the town center.
Visit the iconic Nuwara Eliya Post Office, known for its beautiful architecture, then explore the nearby Victoria Park for a morning walk.
Take a trip to the Sita Amman Temple, a sacred site with beautiful gardens, and indulge in some traditional Sri Lankan cuisine for lunch.
Conclude your day by relaxing at your accommodation, or explore local bars for a taste of the nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a local restaurant | $5 |
| ☕Cup of tea | $1 |
| 🚕Taxi fare (within town) | $2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $30 |
| 🎟️Entry fee to attractions | $3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and landscapes
- Cool climate, ideal for outdoor activities
- Rich colonial history and cultural experiences
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Rainy weather can disrupt travel plans
- Higher costs for accommodations during peak season
- "Ayubowan" - Welcome
- "Bahinna" - Thank you
- "Kohomada?" - How are you?
- "Mama Sinhala dannawa" - I speak Sinhala
- "Hondai" - Good
Places to Visit in Nuwara Eliya
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery and mountains, perfect for capturing stunning sunset views.
An expansive tea plantation with rolling hills and rows of tea bushes, ideal for landscape photography.
A beautifully landscaped garden filled with vibrant flowers and plants, offering myriad photo opportunities.
Food in Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple meal consisting of steamed rice served with a variety of curries, vegetables, and sambols.
Must-Try!
Crispy bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour, often served with an egg in the center.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always dress modestly when visiting temples or religious sites, and remove shoes before entering.
It’s customary to use your right hand for giving and receiving items, as the left is considered unclean.
A traditional greeting is to place your palms together in a prayer-like gesture and bow slightly.
Safety
Tipping in Nuwara Eliya
Ensure a smooth experience
It's customary to tip about 10% in restaurants if service is not included; rounding up the fare in taxis is also appreciated.
Cash is widely used, but larger establishments may accept credit cards; ATMs are available in the town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect cool temperatures and occasional mist; it's the peak tourist season, so book accommodations in advance.
Enjoy mild weather and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Expect heavy rainfall, which can disrupt travel plans, but the landscape is lush and vibrant during this time.
Mild temperatures with occasional rain; a good time to visit as the crowds are fewer.
Nuwara Eliya at Night
Hiking in Nuwara Eliya
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderately challenging hike that rewards trekkers with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
A UNESCO World Heritage site offering several hiking trails through stunning landscapes, including the famous World's End viewpoint.
Airports
How to reach Nuwara Eliya by plane.
Located about 160 km from Nuwara Eliya, this is the main international airport in Sri Lanka, providing connections to various destinations around the world.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Sri Lanka, predominantly engaged in agriculture and tea production in the Nuwara Eliya region.
A significant ethnic minority in the area, particularly involved in the tea industry and local businesses.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A national passion in Sri Lanka, cricket matches are popular, with many local teams and schools participating.
Rugby is also quite popular, with local clubs and schools engaging in competitions throughout the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nuwara Eliya.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Sri Lankan cuisine has plenty of vegetarian options, including lentil dishes, vegetable curries, and rice.
Rice is a staple, making it easy to find gluten-free meals, but always check for sauces and bread.