Trips and Tours to Nuwara EliyaDiscover this Sri Lankan hill station with, lush tea plantations, colonial architecture, and stunning landscapes.
When do you want to go?
2024
I'm flexible
Passengers
Adults (18+)
Children (0 - 17)
Visit Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as ‘Little England’ is one of the highest and most attractive cities in Sri Lanka. The town itself was built by English tea growers and was one of their favourite hill stations during colonial times. The city has clear English influences from its Hakgala Botanical Garden, famous for its orchids and roses, red telephone boxes and colonial style bungalows.
Nuwara Eliya is most famed for its tea production. After the failure of its coffee crop in the mid-19th century an Englishman called James Taylor planted the first tea bushes in nearby Kandy. Unlike the diseased coffee crops, the tea crops took hold and today, Sri Lanka is the world’s third largest producer of tea. With a 20% share of global demand, Sri Lanka is also the world’s largest exporter of tea. Tea bushes grow from sea level to elevated slopes, but it is the tea grown above 1000m that offer the greatest character, aroma and flavour. Tea pickers can be spotted all over the lush green slopes around Nuwara Eliya and Kandy throughout the year.
Tours to Nuwara Eliya
Explore the stunning scenery of Nuwara Eliya, visit beautiful old English style buildings, see the vast tea plantations, try out some pure Ceylon tea and discover the beauty of the Hakgala Gardens on a guided tour.
Is Nuwara Eliya worth visiting? What to expect
Nuwara Eliya is an incredibly unique city in Sri Lanka, from its cooler climate to its English influences tourists can expect to be blown away by the unique beauty of Nuwara Eliya. With vast tea plantations, a UNESCO World Heritage site national park and spots for golfing, fishing and taking English style high tea Nuwara Eliya is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of warmer busier Sri Lankan cities.
What to do Nuwara Eliya
Take a Nuwara Eliya tea factory tour
Famed for its tea production there is no better way to spend your time in Nuwara Eliya than exploring the vast tea plantations, tea factories and sipping on some 100% pure Ceylon tea. Nuwara Eliya’s high elevation makes it the perfect place to grow tea and give the leaves a much richer aroma and flavour than teas gown closer to sea level. Ceylon tea itself is rich in antioxidants and had a unique flavour with citrus notes that sets it apart from other teas. Enjoying a relaxing sip of Ceylon tea in the place that it is made is a wonderful way to spend some time in Nuwara Eliya.
Visit the Hakgala Botanical Gardens
The Hakgala Botanical Gardens is one of the highest botanical gardens in the world, nestled at an elevation of 1,745 meters (5,725 feet). Established in 1861, the garden spans 28 hectares (69 acres) and is renowned for its diverse collection of flora, including vibrant roses, orchids, and a rare array of sub-tropical and temperate plants. With its lush landscapes, meandering pathways, and tranquil atmosphere, Hakgala Botanical Gardens provides a delightful escape for nature lovers and a perfect spot for leisurely strolls amidst the stunning backdrop of the Hakgala Rock.
Take a walk around ‘Little England’
The rolling hills, lush fields and cooler climate of Nuwara Eliya bears a striking resemblance to the English countryside and this could be why British settlers choose this part of Sri Lanka to live in during the 19th century. Today the city has kept much of its old charm from the beautiful colonial era buildings, rose gardens and tea houses. Enjoy a leisurely stroll as you take in the beauty of the city’s architecture, spot quaint details such as vintage red telephone boxes and the Victorian era post office. Nuwara Eliya provides visitors with the perfect blend of old English tradition with modern Sri Lankan charm making for a wonderful city not to be missed.
Best time to visit Nuwara Eliya
The best time to visit Nuwara Eliya is from February to April when the weather is most favourable. During this period, the region experiences mild temperatures and relatively less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The lush landscapes are in full bloom, particularly in April when the city hosts its annual flower show. Additionally, the famous Nuwara Eliya Season, which includes horse racing events and festive activities, takes place in April, adding to the charm and vibrancy of this picturesque hill station.
Conclusion
Visiting Nuwara Eliya offers a unique blend of natural beauty, colonial charm, and cultural richness that leaves a lasting impression. With its cool climate, lush tea plantations, and stunning landscapes, it provides a refreshing escape from the tropical heat of the lowlands. Whether you are exploring the enchanting streets of ‘Little England’, enjoying a serene boat ride on Gregory Lake, or strolling through the picturesque Hakgala Botanical Gardens, Nuwara Eliya promises a tranquil and rejuvenating experience. This charming hill station, with its distinct British influence and warm Sri Lankan hospitality, is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking both relaxation and adventure in the heart of Sri Lanka's central highlands.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Nuwara Eliya?
Our tours provide transportation for all sights listed in our itineraries so there is no need to worry about transportation to and from Nuwara Eliya. This is so that you can focus on what really matters, making memories and enjoying your vacation.
What kind of clothing should I bring to Nuwara Eliya?
Pack warm clothing such as sweaters, jackets, and long pants, as the climate is quite cool, especially when compared to the lowlands of Sri Lanka. Layering is advisable due to temperature variations during the day. Don't forget comfortable shoes for walking and trekking.
Can I visit and tour the tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya?
Yes, many of our tours to Nuwara Eliya include a tour of tea plantation, tea factories and an opportunity to taste the famous Ceylon tea.
What are the top attractions to visit in Nuwara Eliya?
Must-see attractions include Horton Plains National Park, Gregory Lake, Victoria Park, Hakgala Botanical Gardens, and the tea plantations such as Pedro Tea Estate and Mackwoods Labookellie Tea Centre.
Sri Lanka travel guides
The best places to visit in Sri Lanka
Ancient tradition meets modern-day. Lush greenery meets thriving city life. Asian culture meets European influence. In a country packed full of contrasts, we've handpicked our highlights, from the Lion Rock fortress of Sigiriya to the historic cave temples of Dambulla.
Dambulla
Ancient Buddhist temples located in cavernous caves, Dambulla is a unique attraction that we visit on all of our tours to the country. Boasting intricate carvings and Buddha statues dating back hundreds of years.
