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Nuwara Eliya, meaning "City of Light," is a charming city located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka and serves as the capital of its district. Situated at an elevation of approximately 1,800 meters, the city enjoys a cool and unique climate compared to the rest of the country. Its temperate weather makes it a prime region for tea plantations, and it is considered the most important hub for Sri Lanka's tea industry.
During British colonial rule, Nuwara Eliya became a settlement hub for officials and representatives, leaving a distinct architectural mark. The city features structures resembling a quaint English town, offering a delightful contrast to the usual eastern aesthetics.
Getting There
Nuwara Eliya is accessible by car or train, with routes connecting it to Kandy or Ella. In our trip, Nuwara Eliya was the second stop after Sigiriya. We arrived via a six-hour car journey.
Accommodation
Nuwara Eliya is a popular tourist destination with a variety of accommodations. The The Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya is highly recommended. This grand hotel offers an immersive British ambiance with stunning design, three excellent restaurants, and exceptional service.
Horton Plains National Park
Located about an hour from Nuwara Eliya, Horton Plains National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site established in the late 1980s. Perched at an elevation of 2,000 meters, the park is home to unique flora and fauna.
The park's World's End Trail is an 8 km circular hike, passing key points such as Baker’s Falls, Mini World's End, and World's End, which offers breathtaking views of the valley below. The entire trek takes about three hours.
While the trail is well-maintained, parts of it are not accessible. It winds through green plains and jungle, offering opportunities to spot wildlife. Most of the path is easy, with only a few sections requiring rock climbing.
The park opens at 6 AM, and visiting early is recommended to avoid the heat. Entry requires a fee, and note that food packaging must meet inspection standards (e.g., no plastic bags or wrappers).
The Iconic Train Ride: Nuwara Eliya to Ella
The famous Sri Lankan train journey operates several times daily between Colombo or Kandy and Ella. This iconic ride is a must for any traveler.
The most scenic part is the stretch between Nuwara Eliya (30 minutes from the city center) and Ella, a three-hour journey through lush tea plantations and vibrant green valleys.
Tickets are available in three classes:
First Class: Air-conditioned with reserved seating.
Second Class: Non-air-conditioned (with fans) and offers both reserved and unreserved seating.
Third Class: No air conditioning or reserved seating.
For the best experience, opt for second-class tickets with open windows to enjoy the stunning views. Don’t miss the chance to capture photos from the train doors—attendants are often happy to assist for a small tip.
Tickets can and should be booked in advance via the official website. If unavailable, tickets from local resellers may cost significantly more.
Additional Attractions
While time constraints limited our visit, these spots are on our list for the next trip:
A large public park in the heart of Nuwara Eliya, home to rare plants and birds, offering a peaceful escape.
Surrounded by nature, the lake offers paddle boats and scenic views.
Tea Factory Tour
A visit to one of the many local tea factories provides insight into Sri Lanka's tea production process, from harvesting to tasting. Tours usually last 20-30 minutes and include an opportunity to purchase tea blends.
Dining in Nuwara Eliya
The city’s central street features a variety of restaurants and cafes. Here are two we loved:
Grand Thai Restaurant Located in The Grand Hotel, this restaurant serves authentic Thai dishes with excellent service and presentation.
Cafe Noshers A hip, Western-style eatery offering burgers and finger food in a trendy atmosphere.
Nuwara Eliya is a captivating blend of Sri Lanka's natural beauty, colonial heritage, and tea culture. Whether you're savoring local cuisine, trekking through Horton Plains, or enjoying the iconic train ride, this city offers something for everyone.
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