The Nuwara Eliya Sri Lanka is a place not to miss by any chance. No matter whether you’re a nature lover, adventurer, or history seeker, there are plenty of things to do and enjoy in this amazing city. So why not get a chance a stay Nuwaraeliya in your next trip to Sri Lanka!
Chapters
Credit: @Original_Photograper_Unkown
Travel Time
7 H 30Min
Elevation
1,868 m
District
Nuwara Eliya
Route from Colombo
Colombo > Nawalapitiya > Nanu Oya(By Train)
Nuwara Eliya, also known as Little England, is a charming hill station located in the Central Province in Sri Lanka. And offers a unique experience for travelers with its cool climate, lush green landscapes, and colonial architecture, From exploring beautiful waterfalls to visiting tea estates and enjoying a boat ride on Lake Gregory, this beautifull city has something for everyone.
Why Visit Nuwara Eliya – Sri Lanka
The Nuwara Eliya, which is located center of Sri Lanka at a height of 1868 meters above sea level. This area has a very cool climate. This palce gives the entertainment for any individual with scenic views of waterfalls and nature, authentic Sri Lankan foods in restaurants, wide range of hotels and accommodation facilities, colonial architectures and so on…
How to get to Nuwara Eliya - From Colombo
There are several ways to get to Nuwaraeliya depending on your preferences and starting point.
By Bus
If you are traveling from Colombo, you can take a bus to Nuwara Eliya. Buses are available from the main bus terminal in Colombo. The journey takes approximately 5 – 6 hours, but it offers scenic views of the countryside along the way.
By Tuk Tuk / Bike / Car
Alternatively, you can choose to travel to Nuwara Eliya by personal vehicle. The drive from Colombo takes around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. The route is well-maintained and offers breathtaking views of the mountains and tea plantations.
Route Map
- First Option
- Begin at Colombo Fort
- Travel through
- Kadawatha > Gampaha > Nittambuwa > Ruwanwella > Karawanella > Kitulgala > Ginigathhena > Hatton > Talawakele > Nuwara Eliya
- Second Option
- Begin at Colombo Fort
- Travel through
- Kaduwela > Hanwella > Avissawella > Karawanella > Kitulgala > Ginigathhena > Hatton > Talawakele > Nuwara Eliya
By Train (Recommended)
Another popular way to visit Nuwaraeliya is by taking a train ride. The train journey from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya is considered one of the most scenic train rides in the world. The train passes through lush green tea estates, misty mountains, and beautiful villages. It takes approximately 4-5 hours to reach Nuwara Eliya by train, but the experience is well worth it.
How to get to Nuwara Eliya - From Galle or Matara (Southern Province)
There are several ways to get to Nuwaraeliya depending on your preferences and starting point.
By Bus
If you are traveling from Galle or Matara, you can take a bus to Nuwara Eliya. The journey takes around 5-6 hours and offers stunning views of the coastal and hill country landscapes. Buses are available from the main bus terminals in Galle and Matara.
By Personal Vehicle (Car / Van)
For those who prefer to drive, you can also travel to Nuwara Eliya by personal vehicle from Galle or Matara using Southern Highway. The drive takes approximately 5 -6 hours, depending on the route you choose. The roads are well-maintained, and you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the countryside along the way.
Route Map
- Begin at Southern Highway
- Exit from Mattala
- Travel through
- Thanamalwila > Wellawaya > Ella > Welimada > Nuwara Eliya
By Tuk Tuk / Bike
For those who prefer to drive, you can also travel to Nuwara Eliya by personal vehicle from Galle or Matara using Southern Highway. The drive takes approximately 5 -6 hours, depending on the route you choose. The roads are well-maintained, and you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the countryside along the way.
Route Map
- First Option
- Begin at Galle / Matara
- Travel through
- Tangalle > Hambantota > Mattala > Thanamalwila > Wellawaya > Ella > Welimada > Bandarawela > Nuwara Eliya
- Second Option
- Begin at Galle / Matara
- Travel through
- Akuressa > Hakmana > Walasmulla > Embilipitiya > Udawalawe 13th Mile Post Jct. > Thanamalwila > Wellawaya > Ella > Welimada > Bandarawela > Nuwara Eliya
Credit: @aliyabektasheva
Best way to travel around Nuwara Eliya
When it comes to exploring Nuwaraeliya, there are several options for getting around the town and its surrounding areas. Here are some of the best ways to travel around Nuwara Eliya:
- Rent a moped or bike:
If you are visiting Nuwaraeliya as a solo traveler or a couple, renting a moped or bike is a convenient and cost-effective option. It allows you to explore the town at your own pace and stop wherever you please.
2. Rent a tuk-tuk and drive yourself:
For those who prefer a more leisurely and unique mode of transportation, renting a tuk-tuk and driving yourself can be a fun experience. Just make sure you have a valid driver’s license and are comfortable navigating the roads.
3. Rent a car with or without a driver:
If you prefer the comfort and convenience of a car, you can rent one with or without a driver. Having a driver can be beneficial if you are unfamiliar with the area and want someone to guide you.
4. Hire a tuk-tuk but consider the price and the route:
If you don’t want to drive yourself, you can hire a tuk-tuk with a driver. However, it’s important to negotiate the price upfront and discuss the route you want to take to avoid any misunderstandings.
5. Budget traveling method:
If you’re on a tight budget, traveling by bus is a cost-effective option. Nuwaraeliya is well-connected by bus routes, and you can easily get around the town and visit nearby attractions using public transportation.
6. Contact a professional travel guide:
If you want a hassle-free and informative experience, hiring a professional travel guide is a great option. They can provide valuable insights, take you to the best spots, and ensure you make the most of your time in Nuwara Eliya.
Credit: @Ayesh
The best time of year to visit Nuwara Eliya in Sri Lanka
The best time to visit Nuwara Eliya is during the months of April to June and September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant with mild temperatures and less rainfall. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the beautiful landscapes of Nuwara Eliya.
The spring season in April brings blooming flowers and lush greenery, creating a picturesque setting.
The autumn season in September and October offers clear skies and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
It is important to note that Nuwara Eliya experiences a cool climate throughout the year, so it is advisable to carry warm clothing, especially during the evenings and early mornings.
You must add these top 29 nearby things to do in Nuwara Eliya Sri Lanka to your bucket list!
Lake Gregory
The Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya - Heritage Grand
Hakgala Botanical Garden
Bomburu Ella Waterfall
Damro Labookellie Tea Lounge
Victoria Park - Nuwara Eliya
Galway's Land National Park
Lover's Leap Waterfall
Nuwara Eliya Red Post Office
Moon Plains
Seetha Amman Kovil
Single Tree Hill
Horton Plains National Park
Ambewela Farm
Pattipola Railway Station
Simply Strawberries by Jagro (Cafe)
Ramya Strawberry Farm
Pidurutalagala
Mlesna Tea Castle St Clair
St. Clair Falls
Devon Falls
Blue Field Tea Factory
Shanthipura View Point
Edinburgh Tea Train
Dunsinane Falls
Nanu Oya Waterfalls
Ramboda Falls
Puna Ella Falls
Purana Kadadora Viharaya
Explore Lake Gregory
Explore Lake Gregory
Enjoy high tea at Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya
Enjoy high tea at Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya
Visit Hakgala Botanic Gardens
Visit Hakgala Botanic Gardens
Visit Bomburu Ella Waterfall
Visit Bomburu Ella Waterfall
Visit Damro Tea Estate
Visit Damro Tea Estate
Walk in Victoria Park
Walk in Victoria Park
Visit Galway’s Land National Park
Visit Galway’s Land National Park
Visit Lover’s Leap Waterfall
Visit Lover’s Leap Waterfall
Visit Red Post Office
Visit Red Post Office
Visit Moon Plains
Visit Moon Plains
Visit Seetha Amman Kovil
Visit Seetha Amman Kovil
Visit Single Tree Hill
Visit Single Tree Hill
Visit Horton Plains National Park
Visit Horton Plains National Park
Visit Ambewela Farm or New Zealand Farm
Visit Ambewela Farm or New Zealand Farm
Visit Pattipola Station
Visit Pattipola Station
Visit Simply Strawberries by Jagro
Visit Simply Strawberries by Jagro
Visit Ramya Strawberry Farm
Visit Ramya Strawberry Farm
Visit the top of Pidurutalagala
Visit the top of Pidurutalagala
Mlesna Tea Castle St Clair
Mlesna Tea Castle St Clair
Visit Blue Field Tea Factory
Visit Blue Field Tea Factory
Visit Shanthipura
Visit Shanthipura
Visit Edinburgh Tea Train
Visit Edinburgh Tea Train
Visit Dunsinane Falls
Visit Dunsinane Falls
Visit Nanu Oya Waterfall
Visit Nanu Oya Waterfall
Visit Ramboda Ella
Visit Ramboda Ella
Visit Puna Ella
Visit Puna Ella
Visit Purana Kadadora Viharaya Kotmale
Visit Purana Kadadora Viharaya Kotmale
FAQ
Nanu Oya Railway Station – about 8 kilometers away.
Approximately 6-7 hours
Second Class – 300 LKR
Third Class – 160 LKR
No, The nearest railway station is Nanu Oya Railway Station.
To enjoy the scenic views, it is recommended to sit on the right side of the train.
- Renting a moped or bike
- hiring a tuk-tuk or car
- traveling by bus
Depends on personal references. A 2-3 day stay is usually sufficient to visit many attractions.
Yes, It has beautiful surroundings, pleasant weather, tea plantations, waterfalls, and a variety of outdoor sports.
From Nuwara Eliya to Ella
Nuwara Eliya to Ella
Credit: @Ayesh
Summary
| Country | Sri Lanka |
| Province | Central province |
| District | Nuwara Eiya |
| Road details | Avissawella > Kithulgala > Hatton > Nuwara Eliya(By Bus) Colombo > Nawalapitiya > Nanu Oya(By Train) |
| Elevation | 1868m |
| Temperature °C | 13° - 19° |
