Things to do in Nuwara Eliya Highlands
Discover the best attractions and experiences Nuwara Eliya Highlands has to offer
Historic Monuments
Nuwara Eliya's colonial era heritage is evident in its stately architecture and landmarks.
Nuwara Eliya Clock Tower
A quintessentially colonial clock tower at the heart of town, a popular photo stop and symbol of the era's planning.
The Grand Hotel
A grand colonial-era hotel that once hosted British tea planters; still an atmospheric landmark and place to stroll by.
Nuwara Eliya Post Office
A pink-painted colonial-era post office perched by the lake, reflecting the town's architectural heritage.
Museums
Discover the region's tea heritage and traditional industries through short, engaging tours.
Pedro Tea Factory
Tea processing demonstrations with a small museum and tasting opportunities.
Mackwoods Labookellie Tea Centre
Tea centre offering insights into production and short tastings at a classic tea estate.
Religious Monuments
Spiritual sites and temples dot the highlands, reflecting Sri Lanka's diverse faiths.
Seetha Amman Temple
Hindu temple near Seetha Eliya linked to the Ramayana legend, set among tea-country scenery.
Holy Trinity Church
A 19th-century Anglican church and architectural landmark in the town's center.
National & Theme Parks
The highlands' dramatic landscapes unfold in protected parks and dramatic cliffs.
Horton Plains National Park
Grasslands and scenic vistas with diverse wildlife, including the famous World's End.
World's End
A sheer cliff edge offering sweeping views across the plains.
Baker's Falls
A picturesque waterfall tucked near Horton Plains, perfect for a short walk.
Neighborhoods
Explore the surrounding towns and tea-country communities that shape the highlands.
Nuwara Eliya Town
The hub of the highlands with colonial streets, markets, and a lakefront stroll.
Hatton
A tea-growing town just west of Nuwara Eliya, ideal for scenic drives.
Talawakelle
A small town along the rail route known for its tea estates and views.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the region without breaking the budget with these easy, free activities.
Walk along Gregory Lake
Stroll the lakefront and watch boats and birds in a tranquil setting.
Stroll the Clock Tower area
Wander the town’s central square and admire colonial-era architecture.
Explore the town on foot and visit local markets
Meander through stalls and observe daily life in the highlands.
Gastronomy
Highland tea is a must and the local eateries offer memorable meals.
Pedro Tea Factory
Tea tastings and light bites at the iconic tea factory in the hills.
Mackwoods Labookellie Tea Centre
Tea tastings and factory tours showcasing Sri Lanka’s famed leaves.
The Grand Hotel dining
Dine in a colonial-era setting with Highland-inspired specialties.
Nightlife
Evenings in Nuwara Eliya can be relaxed with a drink and a stroll.
The Grand Hotel Lounge & Bar
A refined spot for cocktails and late-night ambiance in the historic hotel.
Hill Club, Nuwara Eliya
A historic social club with dining and a classic colonial atmosphere.
Entertainment
Local experiences and views that entertain beyond the usual sights.
Nanu Oya to Ella scenic train ride
Grab a window seat on one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic railway journeys.
Moon Plains
Open plains ideal for sunrise photography and wide-country vistas.
Victoria Park visit
A peaceful stroll in a historic public park with a variety of birds.
Sports
Active options to stay sporty in the cool highlands.
Nuwara Eliya Golf Club
Play a round on a historic golf course amidst pine trees and tea country.
Horton Plains hiking
Trek across the plains to the famed World's End and Baker’s Falls.
Off the Track
Unconventional routes and hidden spots off the typical itinerary.
Lipton’s Seat viewpoint
A sweeping hilltop vantage point named after tea magnate Sir Thomas Lipton.
Ambewela Dairy Farm
Visit a model dairy farm and observe rural highland farming.
Demodara Nine Arch Bridge
A dramatic railway bridge set in the hillside landscapes near Ella.