Joanna James
Looking for some respite from the unrelenting humidity and heat of Sri Lanka's coastal cities? With its refreshing mountain air, verdant hills and scenic vistas, the little England of the island, Nuwara Eliya promises to offer travellers a getaway unlike any other. Here is a list of some special places to visit during your time there.
Situated in the very heart of Nuwara Eliya, Victoria Park is an immaculately maintained park – which is ideal for outings with family and friends. The park is home to rare flowering plants and plenty of exotic birds to observe. Apart from a spacious children's play area, the park features serene ponds, colourful flowers and plenty of scenic spots to take in. Consider heading there for a morning walk, or possibly even taking along a picnic lunch to enjoy. Visitors will be required to pay a nominal entrance fee.
Situated roughly 3.5 kilometres away from Nuwara Eliya, the Pedro Tea Estate is a sprawling tea farm renowned for the cultivation of pure Ceylon black tea. One can take in the sloping terraces, wander around the tea bushes and help workers pick some tea leaves as well! Additionally, one has the option of visiting the tea factory to learn how the best tea in the world is processed and packaged before exporting. After touring the factory, consider making your way to an outdoor café, where you can enjoy a complimentary cup of tea, and possibly even purchase some souvenirs to take back home. Most hotels near Horton Plains including those such as Araliya Green Hills will be happy to arrange for a visit upon the request of their guests.
Lake Gregory is iconic of Nuwara Eliya. A local reservoir, this popular attraction is located centrally and attracts many a tourist keen on enjoying some fun recreational activities. Built in 1873, and named in honour of Sir William Gregory, during colonial times, Gregory Lake is best visited in April! Here visitors can walk around the lake promenade, enjoy a picnic on the well-maintained lake grounds and try out a spot of rowing or bicycle riding.
There is an abundance of strawberry fields in Nuwara Eliya, and they definitely make for scenic attractions to take in. Popular strawberry farms to visit include Jagro Strawberry Farm and the Rose Garden Farms, where one can pick and purchase strawberries and other strawberry-based products such as jams and cordials. Both farms come with their own cafes, where one can treat oneself to strawberry pancakes, milkshakes, juices and ice creams!
A heritage Tudor-style mansion, the Nuwara Eliya Post Office is among Sri Lanka's oldest post offices. First built in 1894, the post office comes complete with a clock tower and spires. The exterior of the post office features bright roofs and complementing red brick walls that contrast beautifully with carefully maintained gardens. Upon visiting, tourists can purchase stamps, postcards and other interesting pieces of souvenirs.
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.
