Joanna James
Often called Little England by locals and seasoned visitors alike, Nuwara Eliya is a geographical anomaly in the tropical island of Sri Lanka. Perched at a high elevation, this sleepy mountainous town laden with strawberry plantations, and tea estates and lined with waterfalls is a world away from the warm beaches the country is renowned for. Here's a rundown of some of Nuwara Eliya's best-kept secrets in terms of hidden points of interest.
Avid hikers and nature lovers in search of challenging climbs must trek up Single Tree Hill during a trip to Nuwara Eliya. Tipped to be the 10th highest mountain in the country, this charming hill is surrounded by tea plantations and is best navigated in the wee hours of the morning. The views available from this vaulted vantage point at sunrise are difficult to capture in words but one is likely to enjoy this spectacle in tranquillity since it is one of Nuwara Eliya's off-the-beaten-track observation hubs. On a clear day, you will be able to see several distant mountain ranges and see Nuwara Eliya town as well.
While it may not be as popular as the Horton Plains National Park, Galway’s Land National Park is no less impressive, especially in terms of the diversity of its inhabitants. Although this particular sanctuary is smaller in size than Horton Plains, the area is easier to navigate and perfect for day trippers to explore in a short amount of time. In addition to its hiking possibilities, Galway’s Land National Park is a birdwatcher's paradise. Home to over 20 species of winged beauties, it is also common to spot mammals the likes of barking deer, buffaloes and wild boars during hikes on the park's trails. Those who are based at Scottish Planter and similar other properties will find that picnicking at Galway's is one of the best things to do in Nuwara Eliya.
Nature lovers and avid hikers should not miss the opportunity to explore the hidden gem of Moon Plains in Nuwara Eliya, renowned for its distinctive geographical features and diverse wildlife inhabitants. As visitors venture through this picturesque landscape, they will be enthralled by the presence of graceful deer, majestic elks, and magnificent buffaloes, all thriving within the lush surroundings of tea estates. What sets Moon Plains apart is its remarkable spaciousness and openness, a rarity amidst its mountainous location, allowing for an immersive and tranquil experience in the midst of nature's beauty.
Although Nuwara Eliya is renowned for many recreational hotspots, there are few religious or spiritual attractions located in this part of the country. The Seetha Amman Temple is a true exception in this regard as this venue, which has long been associated with the events of the Ramayana, is also relatively unknown among local travellers. Believed to have been dedicated to the wife of India's Prince Rama who was unceremoniously kidnapped by Sri Lankan King Ravana, this sacred place of worship is as ornate as it is historic. Built on the location where the kidnapped royal consort was kept, Seetha Amman Temple is thus named after the Indian queen.
As the 3rd tallest mountain in Sri Lanka, Thotupola Peak is a lesser-known point of interest tucked away within Horton Plains National Park. While most visitors explore World's End and other highlights inside Horton Plains, this iconic peak connected with the Ramayana is largely ignored. Believed to have been the location in which King Ravana and Queen Seetha landed upon their return from India, the area, surrounded by rolling hills, is a fantastic observation hotspot in Nuwara Eliya. A whopping 2357 metres high, Thotupola Peak is another must-visit site for hikers.
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.
