Joanna James
Nuwara Eliya, affectionately known as Little England, is a city like no other in Sri Lanka. Take a breath of fresh mountain air, soak up the breathtaking scenery, explore lush tea gardens and lose yourself in the heavenly tranquillity of this hill country town on the teardrop island.
Start your exploration by getting a dose of beauty and nature not far from the city. Lying right in the heart of Nuwara Eliya, Gregory Park is a true oasis of serenity. The giant, calming Gregory Lake, and the surrounding beautifully manicured lawns and stone walking paths, set against the background of emerald green tea fields and dramatic mountains—it is a sight you certainly don't want to miss. Bicycle around the lake, go for a pony ride or simply unwind on a garden bench and take in the picture-postcard scenery.
Home to over 10,000 different species of colourful flora, Hakgala Botanical Gardens in Nuwara Eliya is the second largest of the only five botanical gardens in the country. The sprawling 28-acre garden is a haven for nature, where you will find some of the most beautiful as well as incredibly rare species of plants and flowers that cannot be found anywhere else in the country. Stroll through countless beautifully manicured gardens and share a lovely moment with tranquil nature like you've never done before.
Nestled 30 kilometres away from the Nuwara Eliya city, Horton Plains National Park makes for a great escape to immerse yourself in complete serenity, taking only a short drive from the city centre. Set out on a day trip to this UNESCO World Heritage site and enjoy an adventurous day amidst the ruggedly beautiful landscapes. Explore the breathtaking, secluded nature and hike your way to the famed "World's End" summit to take in the scenic beauty of Horton Plains to its last drop. After a day of treating yourself to an epic workout, retreat back to one of the finest Nuwara Eliya bungalows, including the likes of Oliphant Boutique Villa by Amaya, and continue your exploration of enchanting Nuwara Eliya.
Countless grazing cows, towering white windmills and sweeping green grasslands that extend as far as the eye can see—a glimpse of the picturesque New Zealand Farm is immediately reminiscent of a classic New Zealand dairy farm, which is probably why it is named as such. Feast your eyes on the magnificent scenery and head inside to take a guided tour through the farm.
Nuwara Eliya is home to a host of beautiful waterfalls, but chances are you won't be able to include all of them in your itinerary. So if you have only one spot left for waterfalls on your Nuwara Eliya itinerary, Ramboda Falls certainly deserves it. Plunging a lovely curtain of water at a height of 109 metres, Ramboda Falls is Sri Lanka's 11th and world's 729th highest waterfall. Hike up to this natural paradise to offer a treat for the eye as well as the avid adventurer in you.
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.
