elevation
1,868 meters
teaEstates
20+ plantations
temperature
10-20°C average
rainfall
High precipitation
About Nuwara Eliya
Experience Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka's charming hill station known as 'Little England'. Set among misty mountains at 1,868 meters, this colonial retreat offers verdant tea plantations, Tudor-style hotels, and manicured gardens. Whether touring historic tea factories, playing golf at Asia's oldest highland course, or boating on Gregory Lake, Nuwara Eliya provides a unique blend of British colonial heritage and Sri Lankan mountain culture in a refreshingly cool climate.
Quick Facts
- Highest city in Sri Lanka
- Known as 'Little England'
- Famous tea growing region
- Year-round cool climate
- Colonial architecture heritage
Best Time to Visit
peak
March to May
weather
December to April driest
duration
2-3 days recommended
timing
Early morning for clear views
Featured Activities
Tea Factory Experience
Comprehensive tour of working tea factory including plucking demonstration, production process, and expert tasting session.
Colonial Heritage Walk
Guided tour of British colonial buildings including Post Office, Holy Trinity Church, and Hill Club with historical narrative.
Victoria Park & Gardens
Explore manicured gardens, rare highland birds, and seasonal flowers with botanical expert. Photography opportunities.
Horton Plains Trek
Early morning hike to World's End viewpoint through cloud forests and mountain grasslands with naturalist guide.
Gregory Lake Activities
Boat rides, lakeside walks, and recreational activities including horse riding and food tasting at lake house.
Haputale Srilanka
Frequently Asked Questions
What clothes should I pack?
Warm clothing essential: jacket, sweater, long pants. Temperatures can drop to 10°C. Rain gear recommended year-round. Formal wear needed for some colonial establishments.
Best time for Horton Plains trek?
Start by 6:00 AM to reach World's End before mist (usually by 9:00 AM). Clear views more likely December to April. Advance transport arrangement recommended.
Which tea factories offer best tours?
Pedro Tea Estate and Bluefield Tea Factory most visitor-friendly. Morning tours show active production. Advance booking recommended during peak season.
Are colonial clubs accessible?
Hill Club and Golf Club open to visitors with proper dress code. Some areas restricted to members. Heritage hotels offer colonial high tea experiences.