The journey from Kandy (MUST-DO THINGS IN SRI LANKA) takes roughly 2.5 to 3 hours. The road winds through slopes and narrow mountain paths. About an hour before reaching Nuwara Eliya, the scenery is already a preview of what awaits in this hill country town.
Nuwara Eliya is located in the Central Province, within the Nuwara Eliya District. It lies in the central highlands, surrounded by mountains and tea plantations, making it one of the coolest and most elevated regions in Sri Lanka. Nicknamed “Little England,” Nuwara Eliya sits at an altitude of around 1,868 meters (6,128 feet).
The town retains an obvious presence of colonial influence, reflected in its architecture, adding to the distinctive character of Sri Lanka’s central highlands.
Tea Plantations in Nuwara Eliya
Green hills as far as the eye can see, Nuwara Eliya’s tea plantations
are impossible to miss. Their lush landscapes are hard to resist. One of the
best nature sights in Nuwara Eliya, tea plantations stretch across the hills
and valleys, making them some of the most picturesque in Sri Lanka (THINGS TO DO IN NEGAMBO, SRI LANKA).
These plantations can be seen while driving through the central
highlands or walking through town. From a distance, the vibrant green fields
are captivating, making it hard not to stop and admire them. The traditional
method of plucking tea leaves, carried out by women with baskets on their
backs, is still practiced today.
The region’s cool climate, high altitude, and abundant rainfall make Sri Lankan tea beloved and well-known worldwide. Known as “high-grown tea,” Nuwara Eliya tea is distinctive for its bright color, fragrant aroma, and smooth taste.
Visiting the tea plantations offers a close-up view of the tea leaves,
and a visit to a tea factory shows how the best quality leaves are grown,
graded, dried, and packed for local consumption or export. This makes Nuwara
Eliya one of the top destinations in Sri Lanka for tea lovers.
Gregory Lake
Gregory Lake naturally becomes one of the attractions when in Nuwara
Eliya. Known for its natural beauty and connection to the town’s colonial
history, the lake was created in the 1870s during the British colonial period
under Sir William Gregory, the then-Governor of Ceylon (Sri Lanka). It was
first built for irrigation but soon became a popular leisure spot, especially
among British settlers. Knowing this history makes a visit to Gregory Lake more
interesting.
Activities at Gregory Lake include horse riding, boating, and
family-friendly picnics. Bikes are available for cycling around the lake, and
there are paths for walking or jogging. Photography and nature watching are
popular, as the lake is home to birds and offers scenic views of the
surrounding hills.
Small cafes and vendors near the lake serve local Sri Lankan food and
snacks. Some activities require payment, while others are free outdoor options.
Whether for leisure, fitness, or seeing the scenery, there is something for
everyone at Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya.
Ramboda Falls
Ramboda Falls is a tiered waterfall along the A5 highway between Nuwara
Eliya and Kandy. It is 109 meters high, making it the 11th-highest waterfall in
Sri Lanka. The waterfall is surrounded by forest and tea plantations, giving
the area a green and peaceful setting. There is a small viewpoint where people
can safely take photos, and the paths nearby are good for short walks.
The waterfall is strongest after rainfall, when the water cascades powerfully down the rocks. Birds are common around the area, ideal for photography or watching wildlife. Ramboda Falls is also a place for picnics or a refreshing dip in the water. The sound of the water and the green surroundings make it a relaxing spot in Nuwara Eliya.
Ravana Ella Waterfall
Ravana Ella Waterfall is near Ella in Sri Lanka’s Uva Province. It is
about 25 meters high and sits at an elevation of around 1,050 meters above sea
level. The waterfall is part of the Ravana Ella Wildlife Sanctuary and is
roughly 6 kilometers from Ella Railway Station.
The waterfall is linked to the legend of King Ravana from the Ramayana.
It is said that Princess Sita was hidden in a cave behind the waterfall, now
called Ravana Ella Cave.
The base of the waterfall is reachable by a short walk from the main road. The area is good for photography, nature walks, and picnics. Swimming is possible in the pool at the base, but caution is needed because of slippery rocks and strong water. The waterfall is most impressive during the wet season when the flow is strongest.
Colonial Lodges in Nuwara Eliya
Colonial lodges are among the most notable accommodations in Nuwara
Eliya. They are not modern or luxurious, but they preserve old-world
architecture throughout the lodge, from the lobby to the rooms and dining
areas. Some lodges do not have lifts, so staff help carry luggage to the rooms.
Rooms are cozy, with wooden fittings, thick carpets, and large windows that open to views of Nuwara Eliya’s gardens and surrounding nature. They are clean and well-maintained, with beverages and toiletries provided. Air-conditioning is not available because of the cool climate, and the fan is usually switched off at night when temperatures drop. A portable heater can be requested to stay warm while sleeping.
Cosy Cafes in Nuwara Eliya
A day in Nuwara Eliya is satisfying, and it must include a stop at one
of the hilltop cafes. After a drive down from the Nuwara Eliya mountain top, a
comfort break is a welcome part of the tour. A cup of Sri Lankan tea or coffee
at a café helps keep the body warm while seated in the open-air outdoor area,
surrounded by nature.
The view is simply mesmerising. Hills, tea plantations, and greenery, connecting
to Nuwara Eliya’s highland daily life. These cafes are known to support local
cottage industries, sourcing tea, snacks, and other produce from small-scale
tea growers and farmers. The fresh air, scenic views, and serene outdoor
setting make this one of the most meaningful things to do in Nuwara Eliya.
