Joanna James
With the quaint colonial buildings that spot the city, together with its tea plantations named after English cities and counties, the 'feels' of UK are overwhelmingly strong in Nuwara Eliya- not to mention the freezing cold weather! Here are some of the best things to do when visiting Nuwara Eliya.
No visit to Sri Lanka is truly complete without a visit to the beautiful hill-country of the island to complement all the beach fun you will undoubtedly have the privilege of- the 'ying' to the 'yang'. When in Nuwara Eliya, the sights of a tea plantation are something you can barely ignore- it is everywhere. The minute you step off the train, you are bound to be mesmerized by the endless tea plains that mould into each other and the best part of it is that most plantations offer free tours along with a spectacular cup of tea of an inhouse blend- what's not to like, right?
It can only be described as criminal to pay a visit to this nation that is the 'home' of some of the most delicious teas tasted worldwide and not have a go at it in the place of its origin- Nuwara Eliya. Tea makes up a significant component of the exports from Sri Lanka and the majority of the leaves that do get shipped abroad, track all the way back to Nuwara Eliya's luscious plantations. So, what better place to nab a taste of it, right? Some of the top hotels in Nuwara Eliya have their own tea tours so make sure to research on this before you go ahead and make your reservations.
One of the best things about Sri Lanka is its stunner collection of waterfalls spread out across different parts of the country. The Nuwara Eliya district is rich with many of these waterfalls located within the area. Lovers leap, Glen falls, Bomburuella and Ramboda falls are some of the best falls that you need to pay a visit to when in Nuwara Eliya. Although the trek to arrive at some of them like Ramboda falls might be quite challenging, we suggest you hang in there as the view is worth is everything!
Lake Gregory is the standout attraction of the city of Nuwara Eliya. It's perfectly manicured grass banks and scenic stretch of lake amidst the backdrop of hilly lands makes the Lake Gregory park feel like a picture straight out of a fairy wonderland movie. Should you wish to, you may opt for a paddle-boat ride across the lake on one of the infamous 'swan boats'. However, if a jet ski ride sounds more you 'speed' by all means go for it at their extremely reasonable prices! The Galway Heights hotel has some of the most incredible views of the Llake Gregory!
The Horton Plains trek is one of the most famous treks among most travelers who come down to Sri Lanka, and for good reason too. It is a magnificent trek with nothing but panoramic views of the lush greenery stretching as far as the eyes can spot. However, considering the fact that it is situated at least 32 kilometers outside of Nuwara Eliya city limits, make sure you have a sensible form of transport arranged beforehand.
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.
