Nuwara Eliya – The Little England of Sri Lanka

Perched 1,868 meters above sea level in the heart of the central highlands, Nuwara Eliya is a serene hill station that blends colonial charm, misty mountains, and lush tea plantations. Known as the “Little England of Sri Lanka”, this picturesque town was once a retreat for British planters and aristocrats, who left behind grand colonial bungalows, rose gardens, and a legacy of tea cultivation.

Surrounded by carpets of emerald-green tea estates, Nuwara Eliya is the gateway to Sri Lanka’s world-famous Ceylon tea. Travelers can visit historic tea factories and estates, where the art of tea plucking and processing is revealed, ending with a refined tasting of the finest blends. The rolling hills and cascading waterfalls create postcard-perfect landscapes, ideal for scenic drives and luxury stays in boutique villas or colonial hotels.

The town itself exudes an old-world charm—wander around Gregory Lake for leisurely boat rides, stroll through the Victoria Park gardens, or enjoy a round of golf at one of Asia’s oldest courses, the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club. The Hakgala Botanical Gardens, just outside the town, showcase rare orchids, ferns, and exotic flora, offering a tranquil escape amidst the cool mountain air.

Beyond its colonial elegance, Nuwara Eliya is a gateway to adventure. Just an hour away lies Horton Plains National Park, home to the breathtaking World’s End viewpoint and Baker’s Falls, where misty trails lead travelers through cloud forests and grasslands.

For luxury seekers, Nuwara Eliya offers the perfect blend of authentic experiences, nature, and refined comfort. From sipping a cup of freshly brewed Ceylon tea overlooking rolling hills to staying in heritage hotels with roaring fireplaces, this charming town is where romance, history, and natural beauty converge.

What to See in Nuwara Eliya

• Tea Plantations & Factories – authentic Ceylon tea experience


• Gregory Lake – boating, walks, and picnics


• Victoria Park – beautiful gardens in the town center


• Nuwara Eliya Golf Club – colonial-era golf course


• Hakgala Botanical Gardens – rare orchids and mountain flora


• Horton Plains National Park & World’s End – dramatic cliffs and scenic hikes


• Baker’s Falls – enchanting waterfall in the highlands