Best things to do in nuwara eliya: The Ultimate Guide

Last updated on April 27th, 2024 at 01:57 am

Nuwara Eliya, nestled in the lush green hills of Sri Lanka, is like a breath of fresh air away from the hustle and bustle of cities and the coast. The locals lovingly call it “Little England” because of its colonial-style buildings and cooler climate.

This charming town is a hit with travellers looking for a peaceful and one-of-a-kind escape in the beautiful upcountry hills. You will be surrounded by natural greenery that’s like a balm for your soul and body. And the best part? There are so many things to do in Nuwara Eliya, and this guide will help you plan your trip quickly and easily.

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01. Nuwara Eliya post office

The Nuwara Eliya Post Office building was built in 1894 and features a Tudor-era design, a style that harmonizes with the colonial structures and beautifully decorates this picturesque town.

You can’t miss this building with that striking red brick exterior. It sits in the heart of Nuwara Eliya.

Instagram enthusiasts love using it as a backdrop for their photos. It’s like a living testament to the town’s colonial history and adds that extra touch of charm to this picturesque place.

Opening hours

8.00 am – 4.30 pm

02. Victoria Park Nuwara Eliya

Victoria Park is a lovely escape to nature and one of the best places to visit in Nuwara Eliya. 

Located right in the heart of Nuwara Eliya, it was initially part of the Hakgala Botanical Garden, serving as research grounds for tropical plants. 

In 1897, the park was named after Queen Victoria in honour of her impressive six-decade reign.

This 27-acre park is like a little piece of heaven, with many flowering plants. You’ll see rare indigenous flora and colourful flowers, creating a delightful experience.

Even though it’s open all year, the best times to visit from March to May and August to September. That’s when the park explodes with a riot of colourful flowers.

The park is super well-maintained, and it’s a fantastic spot to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while exploring the heart of Nuwara Eliya. Whether you are a nature lover or just looking for a peaceful escape, this park is perfect for strolls and capturing vibrant photos.

Opening hours

 07.00 AM – 06.00 PM

Entrance fee

Locals: Rs 50 

Tourists: Rs 600

The best time to visit 

The best time to visit is during the flowering seasons, from March to May and August to September when the flowers are fully bloomed.

03. Gregory Lake

Gregory Lake is located in the centre of the Nuwara Eliya. Sir William Gregory, a British Governor, created this beautiful place back in 1873. The surroundings are absolutely stunning, with well-kept gardens and majestic mountains in the background. It’s like a picture-perfect paradise.

Gregory Lake has become a hub of fun water activities, recreation and relaxing spots. 

One of the best things to do in Nuwara Eliya is take a boat ride on various boats, such as rowing or speed boats, each at a different price. They offer roughly 30 minutes of pure enjoyment.

If you’re looking for a romantic touch to your visit, honeymoon couples often go for the swan-shaped paddle boat, which costs around 2000 Rs for half an hour. It’s a lovely experience to enjoy with your loved one, and if you like horseback riding, it is also available for kids and adults.

Don’t worry about food, either. There are food stalls near the lake that serve up delicious Sri Lankan dishes, as well as more familiar options like burgers, noodles, and indulgent ice creams.

The best time to visit Gregory Lake is in the evening. As it is, it comes alive with locals, families, and kids who gather to fly kites against the backdrop of the setting sun. It’s heartwarming and genuinely captures the sense of community and joy.

After a day packed with adventure, visiting Gregory Lake in the evening is the perfect way to unwind and soak in the magic of Nuwara Eliya.

04. Visit a Strawberry Farm

If you’re looking for a fun and unique places to visit in nuwara eliya, then you’ve got to visit a strawberry farm.

Thanks to Nuwara Eliya’s fantastic climate, it’s the perfect place to grow these delicious red gems. 

You’ll find many strawberry farms along the Hakgala-Ambewala road, and some of the most famous ones are Jargo Strawberry Farm, Sen Horti Strawberry Farm, and Ramya Horticulture Strawberry Farm.

What makes this adventure even sweeter is that you can visit their farms and learn all about strawberry farming.

Also, each has charming cafes with all sorts of mouthwatering strawberry-based treats like fresh strawberries, desserts, juices, and milkshakes. 

But here’s the star of the cafe: Jargo Strawberry Cafe. They have an extensive selection of desserts and cakes that satisfy your sweet tooth.

So, visiting these strawberry farms isn’t just delightful; it’s a flavorful adventure amid Nuwara Eliya’s cool, misty hills. Perfect for anyone who loves strawberries and good times.

05. Visit Ambewala farm

If you’re up for a fantastic dairy farm experience in Sri Lanka, you should check out Ambewala town.

 It’s a charming little town, just 17 km away from Nuwara Eliya, and it’s home to not one but two famous dairy farms, Ambewela Farm and New Zealand Farm. 

These farms are managed by Lanka Milk Foods, and guess what? Both farms are open for visitors like you.

 Ambewela Farm has been around since the early 1940s when the Brits set it up, and the New Zealand Farm came into the picture in 1960 with the help of the New Zealand government. 

Thanks to its lush green pastures and these two farms, Ambewela town has earned the cute nickname “little New Zealand.”

It’s one of the fantastic places to visit in Nuwara Eliya, especially for families with kids. 

Even though the locals prefer Ambewela Farm over New Zealand Farm, both farms offer the same fantastic experience.

When you swing by either of these farms, you can taste fresh milk (try their fresh milk tea) or yoghurt, get up close and personal with the cows (they’re adorable!), and soak in the beauty of the surroundings. So, if you’re into dairy goodness and picturesque settings, Ambewela’s where you want to be.

Opening time

08.00 am – 06.00 pm

06. Damro tea factory

If you’re looking for a fine tea and an incredible experience, you’ve got to check out the Damro Labookellie Tea Center in Sri Lanka. 

Nestled in the beautiful backdrop of tea plantations, the Damro tea factory has a fantastic view and is the oldest tea factory in Sri Lanka.

The best part of this factory is that they offer free factory tours. Imagine going on a journey through the fascinating world of tea production. You’ll have a friendly guide by your side, showing you around the different parts of the factory and explaining the various types of tea leaves and the intricate process that turns them into a beloved beverage we all know and love.

The tour wraps up with a complimentary tasting of their signature black tea. So, it’s not just educational; it’s also a flavorful adventure you want to take advantage of.

Tip

Don’t miss the delicious cakes at the tea lounge.

07. Moon plains

The Moon Plains National Park, also known as Sandatanne. It is the newest tourist attraction in Nuwara Eliya and was opened in 2014. Since then, it has become one of the most popular destinations in the area and one of the uncommon places to visit in Nuwara Eliya, located just 3 kilometres away from Nuwara Eliya.

When you arrive at the Moon Plains gate, you must take further journey in a safari jeep, as no other vehicles are allowed beyond that point. 

The drive to Moon Plains is breathtaking. The real highlight is the 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape.

While going to the Moon Plain viewpoint, you will see lots of potato and other vegetable cultivation. Keep your eyes open for cows, buffaloes, boars, deer, and over a hundreds of bird species. This place is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream!

On a clear day, when you reach the top of the viewpoint, you can see a jaw-dropping panoramic view that includes nine different mountains. This place is often called the “second world end” in Sri Lanka. It is a must-visit spot for nature lovers and anyone who appreciates breathtaking scenery.

Ticket price

Locals

• Adults for Rs. 80
• Children for Rs. 30
• Jeep Fee Rs 3000

Foreigners

• Foreign Adults for Rs. 600
• Foreign Children for Rs. 300
• Jeep Fee Rs. 5000

Opening hours

07 am – 05 pm

Time needed to visit

You can explore Moon Plains National Park comfortably in just about 2 hours, including the round trip in the safari jeep. It’s a relatively quick yet incredibly rewarding experience for your visit.

08. Hakgala botanical garden

Hakgala Botanical Garden is a must-visit destination for every nature lovers, nestled amidst the cool, misty hills. This enchanting 28-hectare garden is every flower lover’s dream place.

It was established in 1861. It’s like a living, breathing encyclopedia of plants and various flowers you can dream of.

As you explore, you’ll encounter a dazzling array of flora, including vibrant roses, fragrant orchids, majestic ferns, and valuable medicinal herbs. The garden’s high altitude at 1,746 meters above sea level gives it a unique climate, making it home to some genuinely exceptional plant species.

You can take leisurely strolls along well-kept paths, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and marvel at the countless flowers in all colours.

Hakgala is not just a pretty face; it’s also a hub for plant research dedicated to preserving Sri Lanka’s diverse plant life. Whether you’re a botany enthusiast or just seeking a peaceful, educational escape, Hakgala Botanical Garden promises a delightful experience.

09. Horton Plains National Park

Horton Plains National Park is a natural wonderland in the heart of Sri Lanka! If you’re seeking a breathtaking adventure, you’re in the right place.

Located in the central highlands, Horton Plains is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Its rolling grasslands, misty hills, and unique biodiversity make it one of the best places to visit in Nuwara Eliya.

 The park is renowned for the World’s End view, a stunning cliff with a sheer 880-meter drop that offers jaw-dropping views of the plains below.

Keep your eyes peeled for the park’s wildlife, including leopards, sambar deer, and various birds.

Hiking is a popular activity here, with well-marked trails to the challenging  World’s End trek. The cool climate and diverse landscapes make it an unforgettable experience.

If you are a nature lover and enjoy hiking, Horton Plains National Park is a must-visit destination.