Nuwara Eliya Sri Lanka: Best Things to Do in the Hill Country

When planning my trip to Sri Lanka, I kept seeing travelers talk about Nuwara Eliya — a cool little town in the central highlands known as “Little England.” If you’re building a Sri Lanka itinerary, here are the must-do experiences that every visitor should add.

  1. Walk Through Tea Plantations
    • Nuwara Eliya is famous for its Ceylon tea. Rolling green hills covered in tea bushes make it one of the most scenic parts of Sri Lanka.
    • You can tour tea factories, learn how tea is made, and enjoy a fresh cup overlooking the plantations.
    • Visiting tea estates like Pedro or Labookellie is one of the most relaxing things to do in Nuwara Eliya.
  2. Visit Horton Plains National Park Sri Lanka
    • Just outside Nuwara Eliya lies Horton Plains National Park, home to the famous World’s End viewpoint.
    • Early morning hikes here are unforgettable, with misty mountains, waterfalls, and wild deer along the trails.
    • It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must for nature lovers and photographers.
  3. Explore Moon Plains Nuwara Eliya
    • Known locally as “Mini World’s End,” the Moon Plains Nuwara Eliya offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks.
    • You can see nine of Sri Lanka’s tallest mountains from here on a clear day.
    • Jeep rides take you across the open grasslands, making it a perfect family-friendly adventure.
  4. Stroll Around Gregory Lake
    • Right in the heart of Nuwara Eliya is Gregory Lake, a peaceful spot for picnics and boat rides.
    • Families can rent paddle boats, while couples often enjoy romantic evening walks by the water.
    • Horse rides along the lakeside add to the charm.
  5. Discover the Colonial Charm of Nuwara Eliya Town
    • Often called “Little England,” the town still has colonial-era bungalows, flower gardens, and even a golf course.
    • The cool climate, especially compared to the rest of Sri Lanka, makes it feel like a European town in the tropics.
    • Walking through Victoria Park during springtime is especially beautiful with blooming flowers.
  6. Tips for Visiting Nuwara Eliya
    • Best time to visit: April, when flowers are in full bloom and the annual festival happens.
    • Weather: Evenings get chilly, so pack a sweater — Nuwara Eliya is much cooler than the rest of Sri Lanka.
    • Getting there: The train ride from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is one of the most scenic in the world, with endless tea fields and mountain views.
  7. Why Nuwara Eliya is a Must-Visit

    A trip to Sri Lanka isn’t complete without the highlands. Between tea plantations, Horton Plains National Park Sri Lanka, and the magical views from Moon Plains Nuwara Eliya, this region offers a different side of the island — cool, green, and refreshingly peaceful.

    Whether you’re looking for adventure, nature, or just a quiet escape, Nuwara Eliya deserves a place on your travel list.

    If you want to experience these highlights without missing a thing, our team at Go Lankan Tours can help plan your journey. From arranging scenic train rides to guiding you through hidden tea trails and national parks, we make sure your visit to Nuwara Eliya is comfortable, memorable, and tailored to your style of travel.

    Contact Go Lankan tour guides today and let us create the perfect trip to Nuwara Eliya for you.