NUWARA ELIYA & HORTON PLAINS
Nuwara Eliya, or ‘Little England,’ is a colonial-era hill station nestled among emerald tea plantations and mist-shrouded mountains. It is a stunning blend of temperate climate and Victorian architecture.
This serene highland is the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country, offering a refreshing escape with access to vital natural reserves and breathtaking panoramas of the island’s interior.
Most Popular Attractions
Tea Country and Highland Views:
Pedro Tea Estate: A working tea factory where visitors can take a tour to see the process of Ceylon tea production from leaf to cup.
Mackwoods Labookellie Tea Centre: A popular spot for tea tasting and enjoying stunning views of the surrounding plantations.
Lover’s Leap Waterfall: A picturesque waterfall easily accessible by a short hike through tea bushes, with a romantic local legend.
Devon Falls: A magnificent, tiered waterfall visible from the main road, often called the ‘Veil of the Valley.’
St. Clair’s Falls: Known as the ‘Little Niagara of Sri Lanka,’ this is one of the widest waterfalls on the island.
Piduruthalagala: The highest mountain in Sri Lanka, offering incredible views from its summit (restricted access, but views from the base are great).
Ramboda Falls: A beautiful, cascading three-sectioned waterfall located in the Pussellawa area en route to Nuwara Eliya.
Bomburu Ella Waterfall: One of the largest and most impressive waterfalls in Sri Lanka, requiring a trek to reach.
Nature Reserves and Hiking:
Horton Plains National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique cloud forest, montane grasslands, and diverse wildlife.
World’s End: The iconic sheer cliff within Horton Plains, offering a dramatic drop and, on a clear day, breathtaking views stretching to the coast.
Baker’s Falls: A beautiful waterfall nestled within the rugged terrain of Horton Plains National Park.
Hakgala Botanical Garden: The second-largest botanical garden in Sri Lanka, known for its extensive collection of roses and ferns.
Lake Gregory: A central reservoir where visitors can enjoy boating, pony rides, and picnicking in the fresh air.
Galway’s Land National Park: A small national park close to the city, ideal for birdwatching and gentle nature walks.
City Core & Colonial Heritage:
The Grand Hotel: A historic and iconic colonial-era building that represents the grandeur of ‘Little England.’
Nuwara Eliya Post Office: A charming, red-brick Tudor-style building considered one of the most beautiful post offices in the country.
Victoria Park: A well-maintained public park in the heart of the town, popular for a leisurely stroll.
Holy Trinity Church: A beautiful Anglican church with historic stained glass windows and a connection to the British colonial past.
Race Course: The highest-altitude racecourse in the world, often hosting horse races, particularly during the April season.
Golf Club: One of the oldest golf clubs in Asia, established in 1889, retaining its classic colonial charm.
Sita Amman Temple: A Hindu temple with cultural significance, believed to be the spot where Sita was held captive in the Ramayana epic.
Activities & Experiences
Trek to World’s End in Horton Plains: Embark on the famous loop trail to World’s End, a sheer cliff with a dramatic drop, and Baker’s Falls. Start early (pre-sunrise) to ensure clear views before the mist rolls in.
Explore a Tea Factory & Go Tasting: Visit a working tea estate like Pedro Estate or Bluefield Tea Gardens. Take a guided tour to learn about the plucking, wilting, rolling, and firing processes, followed by a professional tea tasting.
Hike through the Cloud Forest: Beyond the main trail in Horton Plains, explore the unique montane cloud forest, which is rich in endemic flora and fauna.
Stroll around Gregory Lake: Rent a swan-shaped paddle boat, go horse riding, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk around the shores of this scenic, central lake in Nuwara Eliya town.
Visit the Seetha Amman Temple: Explore this colorful temple near Nuwara Eliya, which is deeply rooted in the Hindu epic, the Ramayana, and is considered a significant religious site.
Hike to Little World’s End: A less strenuous, but still scenic hike near Nuwara Eliya (not to be confused with the main site in Horton Plains), offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valley.
Wander through Victoria Park: Relax in this beautifully maintained public park in the center of Nuwara Eliya, famous for its seasonal blooms and bird-watching opportunities, especially in spring.
Experience a ‘High Tea’ at a Colonial Hotel: Indulge in a traditional high tea service at a historic establishment like the Grand Hotel or the Hill Club to soak in the area’s preserved colonial ambiance.
Visit Hakgala Botanical Garden: Explore this stunning botanical garden, the second-largest in Sri Lanka, known for its diverse collection of roses, ferns, and montane species.
Take a Scenic Train Ride from Nanu Oya: Catch the famously scenic train ride from the nearby Nanu Oya station (Nuwara Eliya’s stop) to Ella or Kandy for breathtaking views of tea plantations and waterfalls.
Explore the Town’s Colonial Architecture: Take a self-guided walking tour to admire the well-preserved Tudor-style post office, racecourse, and numerous colonial-era bungalows.
Local Tips & Transport
Tuk-Tuks for Local Travel: Tuk-tuks are the primary and most convenient mode of transport for short-to-medium distances around Nuwara Eliya town, to the botanical gardens, or nearby viewpoints. Always agree on the fare before starting the journey.
Pre-Arranged Transport to Horton Plains: The roads to Horton Plains are narrow and remote. The best way to visit is to hire a car/van with a driver for the round trip from Nuwara Eliya, or hire a specialized safari-style jeep/van near the park entrance. Tuk-tuks are an option but can be very cold and slow for the early morning drive.
The Scenic Train: While the train does not pass through Nuwara Eliya town, the nearby Nanu Oya station is the gateway to the famous rail journey. Book tickets (especially 1st or 2nd class reserved seats) well in advance, as they sell out quickly. This is a must-do for panoramic views.
Intercity Bus: An affordable option, the bus network connects Nuwara Eliya to major cities like Kandy and Colombo. They are often fast but can be crowded and not as comfortable as the train or private car.
Dress for the Cold: Nuwara Eliya is often called “Little England” for a reason. Its elevation leads to cool days and genuinely cold nights, especially from November to March. Always carry warm layers, a jacket, and maybe a hat, even if the rest of your Sri Lanka trip is hot.
Early Start for Horton Plains: The golden rule for visiting World’s End is to start hiking by 6:30 AM at the latest. Mist and clouds often roll in around 9 AM-10 AM, completely obscuring the spectacular view.
Respect Tea Plantations: When photographing the scenic tea estates or the tea pluckers, be respectful. Always ask permission before taking a close-up photo of the workers, and be prepared to offer a small tip in appreciation.
Hidden Gems:
- Galway’s Land National Park: A small but rich national park, excellent for birdwatching and a quiet escape near Nuwara Eliya town.
- St. Clair’s and Devon Falls: Two spectacular waterfalls that can be viewed from roadside viewpoints (especially along the Hatton road), often framed by lush tea plantations.
- Moon Plains: A quieter, elevated grassland area offering 360-degree views of the area’s mountain peaks, a great alternative to the crowds.
Local Cuisine: Embrace the local Sri Lankan curries, but also seek out restaurants serving Kottu Roti (chopped flatbread stir-fry) and Hoppers (bowl-shaped pancakes). Due to the colonial heritage, you can also find bakeries with excellent pastries.
Altitude Awareness: Nuwara Eliya sits at over 1,868 meters (6,128 feet). Take your time when trekking and keep hydrated. The intense sun at this altitude can cause sunburn quickly, so use high-SPF sunscreen.
Top Restaurants
De Silva Food Centre [$5-$10] – A highly recommended, no-frills local eatery near the bus stand known for serving authentic and budget-friendly Sri Lankan rice and curry, kottu roti, and Chinese-Sri Lankan dishes.
Remarko’s [$5-$10] – Located close to the main bus station, this is a very cheap and popular spot among locals for good, simple Sri Lankan food like fresh rotis and curries.
Themparadu [$5-$15] – Situated overlooking Victoria Park, this casual restaurant offers Sri Lankan food with a slight modern twist in a setting that’s popular with locals for its scenic view and relaxed vibe.
Ambaals [$5-$15] – A favorite spot for excellent South Indian vegetarian cuisine, offering a wide array of dosas, idlis, and thalis that are flavorful and authentic.
Milano Restaurant [$5-$10] – A decent, casual place in Nuwara Eliya town, favored by locals for its large portions of Sri Lankan rice and curry, kottu, and other basic local dishes.
Hill Cool Restaurant [$5-$10] – A simple eatery in the Kotagala area, popular for its authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and offering a straightforward, local dining experience.
Patiya Hotel (පැටියා හොටෙල්) [$5-$10] – Located in Ohiya, this very local spot serves authentic Sri Lankan flavors and is a great stop near the Horton Plains area for a genuine local meal.
Chill Ramboda [$10-$20] – Situated near Ramboda Falls, this restaurant offers local and international dishes in a setting with breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty.
Queenswood Restaurant [$10-$20] – Known for its versatile menu that includes Sri Lankan, Asian Fusion, and Western dishes, this spot has a cozy atmosphere and is often cited for quality food in the town.
Queenswood Cottage [$10-$20] – Offers a home-cooked style Sri Lankan meal, often noted for being a quiet and serene place to enjoy authentic flavors in a cottage setting.
Nitwo Restaurant by ONASIUS [$10-$20] – A local favorite in picturesque Nuwara Eliya for its authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, providing a genuine taste of local flavors.
Eleven 2 Eleven Restaurant (Ashley Hills) [$10-$20] – Offers a mix of local flavors and international cuisine, set with stunning views, making it a good spot for a casual yet scenic meal.
Cool Feel Rest & Cafe [$5-$15] – A simple rest and cafe that provides local snacks and simple meals, perfect for a quick and casual stop.
Horton Plains Cafeteria [$5-$10] – A very basic, simple stop at the Horton Plains National Park entrance/area for quick bites and light refreshments before or after a hike.
The Kitchen [$10-$20] – Located in a well-regarded local hotel but known for excellent Sri Lankan Rice and Curry, often using fresh local produce.
The Grand Market [$5-$15] – A popular food market or cluster of stalls in the center of Nuwara Eliya where locals gather for very cheap and fresh Sri Lankan street food like egg hoppers and kottu.
The Curry Bowl [$10-$20] – Known for its variety of traditional Sri Lankan curries, serving a hearty, authentic meal that can be customized to different spice levels.
Aasai Amutha [$5-$15] – A small, independent South Indian restaurant focused on simple, tasty vegetarian fare, beloved by the local Tamil community.
The Spice Road [$10-$20] – Offers a robust selection of Sri Lankan and Indian dishes in a setting that is slightly more comfortable than a simple food stall, often noted for its deep, authentic curry flavors.
Bakers Bend [$5-$10] – A great local bakery and cafe, popular for traditional Sri Lankan short eats (savory snacks) and fresh-baked goods, ideal for a morning or afternoon break.
Cottage Inn [$10-$20] – A mid-range option with a cozy atmosphere, often recommended for travelers seeking hearty meals, including Sri Lankan and international dishes.
The Grand Indian [$15-$30] – While popular, it is a highly worthy exception for its authentic, flavorful North Indian cuisine, which is a staple for many locals and travelers in the area.
Grand Thai [$15-$30] – Another worthwhile exception within the Grand Hotel complex, offering authentic and well-prepared Thai dishes for a change of pace from local cuisine.
Rambo’s Restaurant [$5-$15] – A casual and budget-friendly spot serving generous portions of both Sri Lankan and Chinese cuisine, popular with both locals and tourists for its affordability.
Upul’s Restaurant [$10-$20] – Located near Lake Gregory, offering a diverse menu that includes Sri Lankan specialties with a scenic view, great for a traditional meal.
Tea Bush Ramboda [$10-$25] – Located outside of the main town but with fantastic sweeping views of waterfalls and valleys, offering light meals, snacks, and, of course, a wide variety of high-quality tea.
The Coffee Bar [$10-$20] – Praised for its excellent beverages, decadent cakes, and delectable pastries in a cozy ambiance, set amidst a well-manicured garden.
Blue Field Tea Center [$5-$15] – While mainly a tea center, it offers light snacks and a cafe experience with beautiful views, a perfect spot to sample various Ceylon teas.
The Coffee Shop at The Windsor Hotel [$10-$25] – Offers a sophisticated ambiance, serving international dishes and light snacks, ideal for a classy afternoon tea or a quick bite.
A2B (Ambewela Farm) [$5-$15] – A cafe near the Ambewela Farm known for its fresh dairy products and simple snacks, popular with families visiting the nearby farms.
Grand High Tea at The Grand Hotel [$20-$40] – While touristy, it’s a must-do for the quintessentially colonial experience, offering traditional sandwiches, cakes, and world-famous Ceylon tea in an elegant setting.
Grand Indian Terrace [$15-$25] – Offers a selection of light Indian snacks and beverages on a terrace, providing a more casual setting than the main Grand Indian restaurant.
The Bake House [$5-$10] – A simple, local-style bakery known for its fresh bread and sweet treats, a classic stop for those looking for local short eats.
Coffee & Tea Room at Hill Club [$10-$25] – A more casual area within the historic Hill Club for light refreshments, tea, and snacks in a colonial atmosphere.
Heritance Tea Factory Hotel Restaurant [$30-$50] – Set in a stunning historical building (a converted tea factory), offering a selection of contemporary Sri Lankan and international cuisine with a unique industrial-vintage ambiance.
The Grand Hotel – Barnes Hall [$30-$50] – The main dining hall of the Grand Hotel, famous for its extensive international buffet and formal, colonial-era dining experience.
The Hill Club Restaurant [$30-$50] – Offers a quintessential British dining experience with a colonial-era ambiance, serving classic European and an elevated Sri Lankan Rice and Curry.
The Sackville (Golden Ridge Hotel) [$30-$60] – A bar & grill offering a blend of colonial charm and contemporary elegance with panoramic views and a menu featuring Sri Lankan curries, steaks, and seafood.
The Grand Hotel – The Grand Boiler Room [$50-$80] – Offers a private and novel dining experience in the 132-year-old boiler room, featuring a 5-course fusion menu for an intimate and exclusive meal. (Reservation required).
The Grand Hotel – The Grand Tree Top [$30-$50] – Located in the Grand Greenhouse, this venue offers a refreshing, veg-centric menu, including a signature Vegan Burger, in a unique setting.
The Grand Hotel – The Grand Chef Table (Teppanyaki) [$40-$70] – An interactive, communal dining experience where skilled chefs grill and entertain, creating flavorful Japanese-inspired dishes with flair.
The Grand Hotel – The Grand Laundry [$50-$80] – A unique private dining experience in the hotel’s original 132-year-old laundry room, often featuring a bespoke 5-course menu.
The Pedro Heights (Golden Ridge Hotel) [$50-$80] – A private dining option at The Golden Ridge with a crackling fireplace, offering an exclusive and luxurious dining cocoon.
The Clovelly Kitchen (Golden Ridge Hotel) [$25-$45] – The all-day dining venue at The Golden Ridge, offering a sophisticated menu with modern English accents for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Indian Summer Restaurant Nuwara Eliya [$15-$30] – Located on the bank of Lake Gregory, this elegant venue specializes in Indian cuisine, offering great views and a refined dining experience.
Salmiya [$15-$30] – A cozy restaurant offering authentic Italian cuisine, famous for its wood-oven fired pizza with real mozzarella and high-quality ingredients, a great non-local option.
The Grand Fish & Chip Shop [$10-$20] – Located outside the Grand Hotel, this spot offers a taste of British seaside fare with quality fish and chips in a casual setting.
Ekko’s Cafe & Juice Bar [$5-$15] – Known for its fresh juices, milkshakes, and light, healthy snacks, a good option for a lighter meal or break.
Victoria Park Market Stalls [$5-$10] – A cluster of very local food stalls often found near the park, serving incredibly cheap and authentic Sri Lankan street food that changes daily.
Green Chili [$10-$20] – Known for its mix of Chinese and Sri Lankan dishes, a popular fusion that caters to local taste preferences for a hearty meal.
The Sackville [$10-$25] – An Irish pub and restaurant offering international cuisines alongside local favorites in a comfortable, pub-style atmosphere.
Single Tree Hotel Restaurant [$15-$25] – A local hotel restaurant offering a mix of Sri Lankan and international cuisine, often noted for its hearty breakfast and dinner options.
Garden Cafe [$5-$15] – A simple cafe, often associated with a guest house, offering home-style cooking and a tranquil atmosphere.
Ohiya Restaurant and Bar [$10-$20] – Located in the quaint Ohiya area, this spot is a community hub that offers local dishes and serves as a perfect pit stop for travelers exploring the area near Horton Plains.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Public Bar at The Grand Hotel: An upscale, historic bar located within the Grand Hotel in central Nuwara Eliya. It boasts a cozy fireplace, a proud legacy, and expert mixologists crafting cocktails and serving premium spirits from around the globe.
The 19th Hole Pub: Found on the first floor of the Hotel Glendower, conveniently situated on Grand Hotel Road in Nuwara Eliya. It’s a trendy spot combining a traditional English pub style with local culture, offering a wide selection of cocktails and beers, often with happy hour specials.
Horton’s Wine Bar: A chic and cozy bar located on the rooftop of Araliya Green Hills in Nuwara Eliya. It offers stunning panoramic views, a tranquil ambiance, and specializes in signature spirits, cocktails, and a selection of rare vintage wines.
Road Hole Bar: This bar in Nuwara Eliya features wrought-iron furnishings and pairs an English bourgeois style with modern aesthetics. It offers a vast selection of Ceylon teas and signature cocktails, appealing to a variety of palates.
Lake View Pub: Situated within the Alpine Hotel, this cozy English pub in Nuwara Eliya overlooks the Nuwara Eliya Racecourse and Gregory Lake. It features comfy leather sofas and is ideal for a cold beer or a craft cocktail while enjoying the view.
The Pub (by Lion): One of the oldest and most atmospheric bars in central Nuwara Eliya, providing the authentic ambiance of an old English tavern. It’s a hotspot for both tourists and locals, well-known for serving Lion’s beer and Western food.
The Sackville: An Irish Pub and Restaurant located in Nuwara Eliya, offering a relaxed setting with local and international cuisine. It is noted for its great cocktails, wine, and beer selection, sometimes featuring live music or jazz.
Windsor Bar: Located in the Windsor Hotel in central Nuwara Eliya, this bar is known for its cozy atmosphere and is a great place to enjoy a refreshing drink and mingle with locals.
Niro’s Pub Nuwara Eliya: A welcoming pub in Nuwara Eliya known for its warm Sri Lankan hospitality, serving delightful drinks and local flavors in a picturesque setting.
Pub London Nuwaraeliye: A lively establishment in Nuwara Eliya offering a great atmosphere, scenic views, and a blend of local cuisine and entertainment.
The Skyline – Rooftop Lounge & Bar: Found in Nuwara Eliya, this rooftop lounge offers stunning views and is an ideal location to enjoy exquisite dining and cocktails in a beautiful natural setting.
The Thinking Cup Coffee Bar: Located in central Nuwara Eliya, this spot is built from upcycled wood and offers a unique, buzzing atmosphere with a selection of coffees and beer, sometimes featuring live music.
Jaya Bar: Situated in Nuwara Eliya, this bar is a lively gathering place for locals and tourists, known for its vibrant ambiance and selection of local and international beverages.
Rogue Elephant Bar: A medieval-style bar within the Windsor Hotel in central Nuwara Eliya. It has a wide collection of local and foreign spirits and is known for serving excellent side dishes.
Bar at Oak Ray Summer Hill Breeze: Located within the hotel in Nuwara Eliya, this bar serves an impressive range of local and foreign liquor and an assortment of interesting cocktails.
The Hill Club Bar: Part of the historic Hill Club in Nuwara Eliya, while primarily a private members’ club, its bar and facilities can be accessed by international visitors or guests. It offers a taste of colonial-era refinement and tradition.
The Library Bar: A sophisticated bar found in Nuwara Eliya, ideal for a quiet and refined drink after a long day of sightseeing.
Wildhorse Pub: A pub in Nuwara Eliya known for its warmth and charm, providing a comfortable place for great drinks amidst the stunning highland landscapes.
Pub Jamis: A centrally located pub in Nuwara Eliya that offers a vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks, popular for socializing.
Boralanda Drink Shop: A charming bar in Nuwara Eliya that provides a cozy retreat with a selection of refreshing beverages in the hill country.
Midland Liquor Stores (with Bar): Located in Nuwara Eliya, this establishment has a bar area offering a diverse drink selection and a welcoming atmosphere.
Yathavan: A charming bar in Nuwara Eliya known for its tranquil ambiance and delightful drinks.
The Shack: A casual bar located near Gregory Lake, popular for its relaxed atmosphere and simple selection of drinks, ideal after a walk around the lake.
Themparadu: A bar and restaurant in Nuwara Eliya where local and international flavors meet, offering a pleasant spot for a drink and dinner.
Highland Milk Bar: While more of a cafe, located in Welimada (near Nuwara Eliya), it’s a popular spot for local beverages, offering a unique highland social experience, often with simple alcoholic selections available.
Araliya 555 One Night Club: Located within the Araliya Green City hotel complex in Nuwara Eliya, this is one of the main dedicated nightclubs in the area. It features electrifying DJ music, mesmerizing light displays, and often has a dedicated karaoke area for an energetic night out.
Night Club at Araliya Green City: Another dedicated night club option within the Araliya Green City in Nuwara Eliya, known for its lively and enticing atmosphere with great beats, mixed cocktails, and dancing.
The Pub (Late Night Sessions): On weekends and peak seasons, this central Nuwara Eliya pub often extends its hours and liveliness, transforming into more of a vibrant late-night venue with music.
The Grand Hotel Ballrooms/Banquets: While not a permanent club, The Grand Hotel often hosts themed nights, live DJ music, or special events/parties, especially during peak holiday seasons (like April), which act as temporary nightclub experiences in central Nuwara Eliya.
The 19th Hole Pub (Music Nights): Known to host occasional live music or themed nights that create a more upbeat, club-like atmosphere compared to its typical calm setting.
Lake View Pub (Upper Room): The upper room of this pub near Gregory Lake sometimes transforms into a livelier space, especially on busy weekends, where the pool table and couches provide a relaxed party setting.
Karaoke Lounges in Hotels: Several upscale hotels in Nuwara Eliya, though specific names may vary, feature dedicated karaoke bars or lounges that provide a club-style entertainment option for guests and visitors.
Seasonal Night Fairs/Carnivals (Gregory Lake Area): Particularly during major holidays (e.g., Sinhala and Tamil New Year in April), the area around Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya hosts night fairs and carnivals with open-air music, dancing, and a festive, high-energy atmosphere.
Pedro Hotel Bar (Late Night): The bar at the Pedro Hotel, known for its local flavors, can get particularly lively on weekends, drawing in a crowd looking for a late-night drink and social setting in Nuwara Eliya.
Welimada Pub: A pub located in nearby Welimada, which, especially on weekends, can become a lively spot where locals and tourists gather for drinks and a bit of a party atmosphere.