Joanna James
The cool climes of Nuwara Eliya hold many delights within and its outskirts. Visitors will be treated to tea plantations, waterfalls, mountains, botanical gardens, and viewpoints. Nature lovers will be in their element here!
One of the best places to visit in Nuwara Eliya is Horton Plains, National Park. The National Park has a rich biodiversity and an otherworldly landscape, while its highlight is the 'World's End' viewpoint. This sharp 880m drop has spectacular views overlooking the tea plantations, villages, mountain peaks, and even the coastline! Arrive early, before 9 am, to get the best views. This way, you can avoid crowds and the mists that obscure the scenery. There is no public transport to Horton Plains, so you will have to rent a tuk-tuk or hire a car or van.
Mount Pedro is the highest mountain in Sri Lanka and is located in Nuwara Eliya, 3.5 km from the city. The mountain is locally known as Pidurutalagala and is over 8000 feet. Mount Pedro can be travelled via vehicle up to its viewing point by van or car. There are plenty of wildlife to keep an eye out for, and perhaps even an elusive leopard! There is a tea estate near Mount Pedro with a factory, which allows tours of the estate. Here, you can sip some freshly brewed hot tea and enjoy the glorious mountain landscape of Sri Lanka.
Haggala is the second-largest botanical garden on the island and is located in the city of Haggala, 5km from Nuwara Eliya. The beautifully sculpted gardens feature a wide variety of flora, like cacti, orchids, roses, ferns and more. It is the ideal place to spend an afternoon and capture some scenic photos overlooking the mountainous backdrop. While there, the likes of Araliya Green Hills are among the options available to base your stay within the heart of Nuwara Eliya Town.
Located in the small village of Seeta Eliya, it is only 1 km from the Haggala Gardens. You will find a shrine there dedicated to Sita, the loving wife of Rama in the Ramayana Epics. It is believed to be the location where she was kept captive by the King of Lanka, Ravana.
Bomburu Ella Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the Nuwara Eliya District. It’s 23 km from Nuwara Eliya Town and a 3 km trek to reach this beauty. The hiking path is equally stunning, with six mini waterfalls along your route. It is the broadest waterfall in Sri Lanka, with several cascades plunging down its majestic fall. The site is stunning, overseeing green mountains and tea estates. You can get very near Bombaru Ella, although swimming is not advisable due to its rocky landscape. However, a bath and a picnic will be a fantastic idea.
Moon Plains is one of the latest attractions to be open to the public in Nuwara Eliya, which is located 6 km from the city of Ranhawadigama. The Moon Plains valley is 400 metres in length and has a depth of 40 metres. Its wide open green slopes attract animals like deer, buffaloes, and birds. Also if you are lucky, you might spot the endemic Sri Lankan leopard! With a surface elevation of 6200 feet, it can get cold and foggy, but you will be treated to amazing views of the countryside below. A highlight here is the 'mini world's end', a viewpoint with a dramatic incline!
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.
