How to Explore Nuwara Eliya in 2 Days

Despite Sri Lanka being an island and experiencing a tropical climate for almost the entire year, some regions remain untouched by the heat and warmth experienced in most parts. Often called ‘Little England’, for its resemblance to England, Nuwara Eliya is one of Sri Lanka’s most enchanting destinations, where tea estates, colonial architecture, and cool mountain air become the perfect combination for a holiday. Spending a couple of days in Nuwara Eliya, especially if you are a first-time visitor, can be stressful if you don’t know what to do. With careful planning, it is possible to explore Nuwara Eliya’s highlights, sample its food culture, and discover scenic corners without feeling rushed. This guide will help you figure out the best way to spend two days in Little England.

Starting Your Journey into the Hill Country

Nuwara Eliya lies about 170 km from Colombo, and the drive usually takes between five and six hours, depending on the traffic situation. Many travellers choose to arrive via the train to Nanu Oya station, which offers one of the most scenic railway routes in the world. The journey from Kandy to Nanu Oya is particularly breathtaking, with its tracks cutting through the green tea plantations, mountains, as well as the mist-covered valleys. From Nanu Oya, a short tuk-tuk or taxi ride will take you to the heart of Nuwara Eliya. Once you arrive, the cool climate will feel like quite a change from the warmth of Sri Lanka’s lowlands.

Where to Stay in Nuwara Eliya

One of the most important aspects of any trip is choosing the right accommodation. The town is known for its colonial-style resorts, modern hotels, as well as cosy guesthouses. For first-time visitors who want to be comfortable while having access to important sites, choosing among 4 star Nuwara Eliya hotels is a good option. One of the well-known names in the region is Araliya Red, a modern property that merges stylish interiors with gorgeous views of the surrounding area.

Day One Morning: Start at the Heart

Start your first day off in Nuwara Eliya by getting to know the town and its important landmarks. Begin with a visit to the famous Victoria Park, a beautifully kept park with designated walking areas, colourful flower beds, and the chance to spot endemic birds. It is especially inviting in the early morning when the park is quieter and the air is crisper. Not far from the park is Gregory Lake, one of the most recognisable landmarks in all of Nuwara Eliya. Here you can enjoy a walk along the lakeside, hire a swan-shaped boat, or simply enjoy the mountain views.

Day One Afternoon and Night: Tea and Biscuits

As afternoon approaches, make your way to one of the cosy cafes nearby, for a Nuwara Eliya style high tea experience. The session usually consists of sandwiches, scones, and steaming cups of tea, which is perfect for warming up. For dinner, the town has a growing selection of restaurants serving both Sri Lankan and international cuisine. Whether you choose to go for a spicy rice and curry or a wood-fired pizza, the atmosphere is always enhanced by the cool climate and the warm food.

Day Two: Tea Plantations and Scenic Highlights

A visit to Nuwara Eliya is not complete without exploring the famous tea culture that it is known for. You can spend the second day checking out one or two of the well-known estates like Pedro Tea Estate or Bluefield Tea Gardens. Next, set out for Hakgala Botanical Gardens, which is a short drive from the town. Established in the 19th century, the gardens are home to many species of flora from orchids to ferns, as well as towering trees from different parts of the world. In the afternoon, you could take a drive towards the Moon Plains, which is an open plateau with an amazing view of over nine different mountain peaks.