Joanna James
Nested in the heart of Sri Lanka's hill country, Nuwara Eliya enchants visitors with its misty landscapes, vast tea estates, and colonial atmosphere. From majestic waterfalls to lovely gardens, here are five places you can't miss when you're there.
Tucked within a dense jungle, Bomburu Ella Waterfall is Sri Lanka's biggest waterfall and a nature lover's heaven. The hike to the waterfall is a picturesque one, through verdant tea plantations and misty forests—offering a rewarding experience. The waterfall, surrounded by towering trees and multicoloured flora, is a magical sight. For travellers who want a luxurious stay in close proximity to this destination, Nuwara Eliya 4-star resorts offer luxury along with proximity, guaranteeing a warm retreat after a day of visit to this magical spot.
Nuwara Eliya is famous for its strawberry gardens, where visitors can view the process of cultivation. The cool environment of the region is perfect for growing high-standard strawberries. Gardens like Adma Agro and Ramya Horticulture Farm expose visitors to freshly picked strawberries, plus a variety of food items made from the fruit; from fresh juice to jams and desserts. Following a day of sightseeing, tourists can relax at nearby hotels like Araliya Red Nuwaraeliya, offering top-notch hospitality and a peaceful ambience in the middle of Nuwara Eliya.
Moon Plains is a stunning plateau, offering a view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Located a few kilometres from the town of Nuwara Eliya, this meadow is an open space ideal for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers. Travelers can take a scenic jeep safari to spot deer, wild boars, and other bird life. The highlight of Moon Plains is the Mini World's End, a viewpoint presenting panoramic views of the distant hills and tea estates. With its serene atmosphere and stunning vistas, Moon Plains is a hidden jewel waiting to be found.
One of Sri Lanka's most renowned botanical gardens, Hakgala Botanical Garden, is a paradise for nature lovers. The garden, established in the 19th century, contains an enormous range of exotic and native plant species like beautiful orchids, roses, and ferns. The weather of the region favours the blooming of these beautiful flowers, and thus it is a perfect spot to have a leisurely stroll. Hakgala is also connected to the myth of the Ramayana, adding mythology to its natural beauty. It's a place you should not skip if you are a botany enthusiast or simply want to get some peace.
For wildlife and nature watching, Galway's Land National Park is one of the best places. Compact but highly biodiverse, the park has several endemic and migratory birds, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Most of the common birds that one can see here are the Sri Lanka White-eye, Yellow-eared Bulbul, and Indian Pitta. Small mammals such as deer and wild boars are also seen in the thick forests within the park. A serene walk through its scenic paths is a chance to be surrounded by nature and experience the density of Sri Lanka's highland biodiversity.
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.
