Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya, often called the “Little England of Sri Lanka,” is a charming hill station located in the central highlands of the country. Surrounded by rolling hills, tea plantations, and stunning waterfalls, this town is famous for its cool climate and colonial charm. It was once a favourite retreat for the British, and you can still see old bungalows, gardens, and a golf course that give the place a unique character.

What makes Nuwara Eliya a standout destination in Sri Lanka tour packages is its lush green tea estates, where some of the world’s finest Ceylon tea is produced. The town also offers beautiful spots like Gregory Lake, Hakgala Gardens, and scenic viewpoints perfect for relaxation and photography. The weather here is pleasantly cool throughout the year, with misty mornings and fresh breezes, making it a refreshing escape from the tropical heat of Sri Lanka.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Nuwara Eliya is from March to May and again from August to September. During these months, the weather is cool, clear, and perfect for sightseeing, tea plantation visits, and outdoor activities. The average temperature stays between 16°C to 20°C, offering a refreshing escape from Sri Lanka’s coastal heat. April is especially lively as the town hosts festivals, horse races, and flower shows, adding to its charm. Monsoon season, from October to December, brings heavy rain, which can limit travel plans. For Indian travellers, the spring and early autumn months provide the most comfortable and scenic experience, making them the best months to explore Nuwara Eliya tourism.

How to Reach

1. By Air:

1. Direct Flight: There are no direct flights to Nuwara Eliya.
2. Connecting Flight
3. Departure City: Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru
4. Arrival City & Airport: Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), Colombo, Sri Lanka. From Colombo airport, you then travel by road, or train + taxi, to Nuwara Eliya
5. Time Taken: Around 6- 9 hours (including road or train + taxi travel )
6. Airlines: IndiGo, Vistara, Air India, Go First, Sri Lankan Airlines

2. By Sea:

You can also reach Nuwara Eliya by sea, as Sri Lanka is well connected to India through limited passenger ferry services. The most common route is from Tuticorin (Tamil Nadu, India) to Colombo Port, Sri Lanka, operated seasonally by private providers such as Flemingo Liners. The ferry journey usually takes around 8 to 10 hours. Another route that is occasionally operated is Rameshwaram to Talaimannar in Sri Lanka, which is shorter, taking about 3 to 4 hours, though availability is limited.

Places to Visit

Nuwara Eliya is surrounded by rolling hills, tea plantations, and stunning waterfalls, a delight for travellers. Here’s a list of the 5 best places to visit in Nuwara Eliya:

1. Gregory Lake – A beautiful lake perfect for boating, picnics, and horse rides. Surrounded by scenic hills, it’s an ideal spot for families and relaxing evenings.
2. Hakgala Botanical Garden – Famous for colourful flowers, orchids, and exotic plants. The garden is cool and refreshing, offering peaceful walks and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
3. Pedro Tea Estate – A working tea plantation where visitors can see the tea-making process. Enjoy guided tours, taste fresh Ceylon tea, and walk through lush green tea fields.
4. Seetha Amman Temple – A sacred Hindu temple linked to the Ramayana, believed to be where Sita was held captive. Its peaceful setting and mythological importance attract many Indian travellers.
5. Victoria Park – A beautifully maintained park with colourful flowers, walking paths, and birdlife. It’s a perfect place for a morning stroll or family outing in the cool climate.