Visit Nuwara Eliya
The Little England of Sri Lanka | Mist, Mountains & Tea Gardens
Nuwara Eliya is the coldest city in Sri Lanka and has earned its nickname of “Little England” through its colonial architecture and rose gardens. Surrounding Nuwara Eliya are the highest mountains in Sri Lanka, a paradise for naturalists and trekkers alike. From trekking in the cloud forests of Horton Plains to boating on Lake Gregory and relaxing over a cup of fresh Ceylon tea in the misty plantations, Nuwara Eliya provides a nice cooling break from the tropical climate.
Moon Plains (Sandathenna) – The 360° Viewpoint
Moon Plains (Sandathenna) – This destination is for people seeking adventure rather than a hike. Moon Plains provides a very interesting Jeep Safari. It is an agricultural and ecotourism area which leads to a spot from where one gets a glimpse of a breathtaking panorama of nine major peaks in Sri Lanka including ‘Pidurutalagala’ and ‘Kirigalpoththa peaks’.
The environment here looks similar to the countryside of Europe, where there are green sloping hills and grazing cattle. This is a great vantage point for photography, observing elks, and birds.
Distance from Town: ~6 km
- Activity: Jeep Safari (about 45 mins)
- Best Season/Raining Season: Sunrise/Sunset Best
- Featured: 360-degree view of mountain, Mini World’s End
- “Difficulty Level: Easy (Accessible by Jeep)”
Kirigalpoththa – Conquering the 2nd Highest Peak
For those finding World’s End too easy or crowded, Kirigalpoththa can be said to be the ultimate trek for the brave. It is the second-highest mountain found in Sri Lanka (2,388m) and the highest mountain that can be trekked through. Such is the starting location of this trek from within the boundaries of the Horton Plains National Park.
This is a tough nature trail, as you will be trekking through the mud, crossing streams, and can also get a glimpse of the rarely spotted leopard or the deer. The top provides a unique sense of accomplishment, coupled with a view that is worth miles.
From Horton Plains Visitor Center to Nuwara Eliya
- Distance: 7 km (One way)
- Hiking Time:5-6 hrs (Round trip)
- Difficulty Level: Hard / Challenging
- Please note: Start early, preferably before 8:00 AM, to avoid the mist and possible rain in the afternoon
Chariot Path – A Walk Through Legend
This is a ‘treasure unseen’, situated in Pussellawa (close to Nuwara ELIYA). As per the legend of Ramayana, this land marks where King Ravana carried his consort, Seetha Devi, in his chariot to give her a glimpse of his land’s grandeur. Strangely, there’s a plain in between this mountain range with no big trees but only grass, as if it were a road.
It is among the best campsites in the region because it provides a 360-degree view of tea estates below and mist-laden mountain peaks in the background. Sunrise in this place is truly awe-inspiring.
- Location: Frotoft Estate, Pussellawa
- Activity: Hiking & Camping
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Vibe: Mysterious and foggy, great for group settings.
Hotels & Stays in Nuwara Eliya
Luxury & Colonial Charm
The Grand Hotel – Experience the colonial history with high tea and luxury gardens.
Heritance Tea Factory – Stay in a converted tea factory surrounded by plantations
Cozy Cottages & Mid-Range
Araliya Green Hills – Modern comfort in the heart of the city.
The Blackberry Cottage – A cozy, private stay ideal for couples.
Nature Stays & Glamping
The Log – Wooden cabins for a rustic feel.
Camping at Lake Gregory – Seasonal camping events during April holidays.