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Nuwara Eliya Sri Lanka, Central Province

Admire the Beauty of Nuwara Eliya, or, “Little England”

Hiking
This small city, set in the beautiful green hills of Sri Lanka, is packed with things to do and see. Thanks to its very temperate weather, it was a popular place for British settlers to build getaway cottages for their holiday trips. This popularity has continued to this day, making it a haven with quaint markets, a lake that visitors can jet ski on, many hikes within the hills, and tea plantations to explore. There’s no shortage of activities in Nuwara Eliya, but it can also serve as a relaxing escape.
Good to know

At a glance

Best time to visit
Jan–May
Recommended duration
2 nights / 3 days
Average price per night Partner link

$40.00 / 35,00€ in Nuwara Eliya

Check hotels
Travel guides Partner links
Lonely Planet
Rough Guides
Current weather
13.3°C / 55.9°F
heavy intensity rain
Elevation
1868 m / 6129 ft
What's around

Highlights

See the End of the World at “World’s End” in Horton Plains National Park

Considered to be a chart-topping excursion while in Sri Lanka, World’s End is perhaps the most popular hike and view in the whole country. Once at the top, hikers can look down on the 1,220 m/4,000 ft drop below and see the faraway ocean view as a backdrop to the country’s mass of tea plantations. The hike to the viewpoint Is only 4 km/2.5 miles, but there’s a popular loop that includes Baker’s Falls that takes the trip to almost 10 km/6 miles.

Enjoy Local Tea on a Tea Tour

This area of Sri Lanka is teeming with tea plantations and factories that are amazing to visit. If you love tea, this activity is a no-brainer, but even if you’re not a tea drinker it is fascinating to see the plantations up close and admire the views they offer. You can also take a factory tour, learn about the manufacturing process, and taste test the teas. There are many tea plantations to choose from, so stop at a few and compare or make a quick visit to just one - it’s up to you!

Chase a waterfall - there’s a ton to choose from

Nuwara Eliya is home to an astonishing number of waterfalls and you don’t have to go far to find them. One spectacular waterfall to visit is called Lover’s Leap Waterfall. Legend has it, there was a young couple who weren’t supposed to be together and their story ends with them both leaping to their deaths from this waterfall while holding hands. It’s a short drive from the center of town and it will take your breath away. Bomburu Ella Waterfall and St. Clair Falls a little farther out are also famous waterfalls that you shouldn't miss. Don’t forget your camera!

Take a scenic train ride to Kandy or Ella

Travelling by train is a great way to experience Sri Lanka and the scenic route between Kandy and Ella (via Nuwara Eliya) is rated as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world! You will pass charming villages and have sweeping views of the lush green tea plantations nestled against the steep hills of the region.
There are several trains running each day and you can usually buy your tickets at the station office the same day. If you want to make sure you get your preferred seat (especially on weekends and holidays) we recommend booking online.
Tip: For the best view, choose a seat on the left side of the train (both if you are going to Ella or Kandy).
Where to go next

Experiences nearby

All distances are direct distances.
How to get there

Getting there & away

transit
Inbound and outbound transit connections depart and arrive in Nanuoya. From here, a minibus, taxi, tuk tuk can take you the remaining ~9 km to Nuwara Eliya.
CMB
Bandaranaike International (CMB) in Colombo is located about 157 km and 4:32 hrs away if you take a car, taxi or minibus.
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