Over View
Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as “Little England” due to its cool climate and British colonial influence, is a picturesque city in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. It’s surrounded by stunning landscapes, making it an excellent base for hiking and exploring the region. Here are some hiking destinations and ideas in and around Nuwara Eliya:
Horton Plains National Park:
- Hike through the rolling grasslands and montane forests of Horton Plains. The park is home to World’s End, a dramatic escarpment with breathtaking views, and Baker’s Falls, a stunning waterfall.
Pidurutalagala (Mount Pedro):
- Scale Sri Lanka’s highest peak, Pidurutalagala, which offers a challenging trek with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and tea plantations.
Lover’s Leap Waterfall:
- Hike to Lover’s Leap Waterfall, a picturesque cascade surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a relatively short and easy trek.
Single Tree Hill:
- Climb Single Tree Hill for a fantastic vantage point over Nuwara Eliya. The trail is relatively easy, and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views.
Moon Plains:
- Explore Moon Plains, an otherworldly landscape with hiking trails that lead to viewpoints where you can admire the moon-like terrain and enjoy birdwatching.
Victoria Park:
- Stroll through the serene Victoria Park in Nuwara Eliya, which offers well-maintained paths and a variety of flora, including beautiful rose gardens.
Tea Plantation Walks:
- Take leisurely walks through the lush tea plantations surrounding Nuwara Eliya. Many estates offer guided tours where you can learn about the tea-making process.
Ambewela Farm Walk:
- Visit the Ambewela Farm and enjoy walks around the beautiful dairy farmlands, surrounded by green pastures and cows grazing.
Galway’s Land National Park:
- Explore Galway’s Land National Park, which features serene walking paths through forests, grasslands, and marshy areas, with opportunities to spot birds and wildlife.
Pattipola to Ohiya Railway Walk:
- For a unique hiking experience, trek along the railway tracks from Pattipola to Ohiya. The journey offers picturesque views of the highlands and rail bridges.
Meepilimana Mountain:
- Climb Meepilimana Mountain, known for its pristine beauty and stunning vistas. It’s a challenging but rewarding hike.
Babarakanda Falls:
- Hike to Babarakanda Falls, Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfall. The trail is relatively easy, and you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool at the base.
Whether you’re seeking challenging hikes with sweeping views or serene nature walks, Nuwara Eliya and its surroundings offer a variety of hiking experiences to suit different preferences and fitness levels. Don’t forget to check local conditions and consider the weather when planning your hiking trips in this beautiful region.
