Joanna James
Nuwara Eliya located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka is a town located at the highest point of the island. Developed by the British colonists, who felt at home there, Nuwara Eliya is home to rolling hills of green. Chilly climes and colonial charms. Listed are top things to do in Nuwara Eliya
Very much the heart and soul of British colonial rule in Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya was developed as a base for tea production on the island. The tradition is still going strong with the hills of Nuwara Eliya carpeted by verdant tea bushes. Amongst the many tea plantations to visit in the town is the Pedro Tea Estate. Visit the estate to learn about the entire process of tea. From gathering the tender shoots to the final packed product. The tea factories are warm cosy places, enhanced with the inviting fragrance of tea. Stop at the sales outlet on your way back and pick up a few packs of tea to be enjoyed at your Nuwara Eliya bungalow. Oh yes! Nothing is more suitable than a colonial type bungalow for your stay in chilly Nuwara Eliya. Like Stafford Bungalow by Reveal there are many popular options to choose from.
The Victoria Park, another cherished relic from colonial times, is a verdant sanctuary located in the middle of the Nuwara Eliya Town. The park is noted as a bird watchers paradise. Take along the binoculars and look for some of the parks most noted feathery visitors. Amongst popular birds to spot is the Indian blue robin, the pied thrush and the Kashmir fly catcher. Victoria Park is also a good place to hang out with kids. And if you are an ardent bird watcher, make plans to visit the Galway's Bird Sanctuary too. Its located a short distance from the park.
Lake Gregory is a huge mass of water located in the Nuwara Eliya Town. The chilly inky black waters are reminiscent of the Loch Ness in Scotland, except this lake is surrounded by a lovely park. Plenty of fun activities are available there. Paddle boating, helicopter rides, speedboat tours and even jet skiing. The park located along the lake is home to food stalls and is a good place to relax and chill.
The Horton Plains National Park is not to be missed when visiting Nuwara Eliya. Leave your holiday bungalow in Nuwara Eliya by early morning to visit the sanctuary. If you get there early, take the very popular Worlds End Trek. The loop trail takes about 8 hours to complete and is very rewarding. You will head out to the Worlds End look-out point from where, on clear days, you can see all the way to the coast. Head back past the Bakers Falls, one of Sri Lanka's top waterfalls. The park is home to many wildlife and unique flora. Plus, you will spot plenty of sambar grazing peacefully on the wide open plains.
The best things to buy in Nuwara Eliya are winter clothes. Head over to the Bale Bazaar and stock up on your winter wear. The prices are amazingly cheap and you won't be disappointed with the selection.
Enjoy discovering more of Nuwara Eliya!
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
