Is Nuwara Eliya worth visiting? If you’re asking that question while planning your Sri Lanka itinerary—you’re definitely not alone. I asked the exact same thing.
I had less than two weeks to see the best of Sri Lanka. Between ancient cities, golden beaches, and epic train rides, I wasn’t sure if Nuwara Eliya—with its cooler climate and British colonial vibes—was worth the detour.
I kept seeing stunning tea plantations, but I also read it could be rainy, quiet, and a little underwhelming.
So, is Nuwara Eliya really worth it? The quick answer: It depends on your travel style, interests, and how much time you have. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.
In this post, I’ll help you decide once and for all whether Nuwara Eliya deserves a spot in your Sri Lanka itinerary. I’ll break down the pros, cons, and who should (and shouldn’t) go.
And if you decide to visit, you’ll also find a mini guide with the best things to do in Nuwara Eliya, where to stay, and how to get there without the stress.
By the end of this post, you’ll know if this misty hill town is right for you—and how to make the most of your time there.
✅ Reasons to Visit Nuwara Eliya (Why It’s Worth It!)
1. It’s home to some of the most stunning tea plantations in Sri Lanka
Everywhere you turn in Nuwara Eliya, you’re surrounded by green hills blanketed with tea bushes. This region is the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea industry—and the perfect place to dive into it.
You can tour estates like Pedro Tea Estate, Mackwoods, or Blue Field, which many consider the best tea factory in Nuwara Eliya.
Even if you’re not a tea drinker (guilty here!), visiting a tea plantation is still worth it. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the production process—and the views over the rolling green fields are absolutely stunning.
Most tours walk you through the full process—from leaf to cup—ending with a steaming sample of freshly brewed Ceylon tea.
2. It’s the perfect escape from the tropical heat
If you’ve been sweating it out along the coast or in cities like Colombo, Nuwara Eliya feels like hitting the refresh button.
With temps hovering between 15–20 °C (59-68 °F), it’s the coolest place in the country.
I visited during September, and honestly, the chilly mornings and misty afternoons were such a welcome change.
3. It gives you a taste of “Little England”
The British influence here is hard to miss—red-brick buildings, colonial bungalows, and even a golf course that looks like it was plucked from the UK.
Walking around town, you’ll see famous places in Nuwara Eliya like the old post office and The Grand Hotel. They’re charming and feel totally different from anywhere else in Sri Lanka.
4. It’s one of the best places for hiking in Sri Lanka
Just a short drive from town is Horton Plains National Park, home to one of the top things to do in Nuwara Eliya—the hike to World’s End.
This trail takes you through cloud forests and open plains, ending at a steep cliff with an 850-meter (2800 ft) drop. If the sky’s clear, the views are unreal. But go early—fog can roll in fast.
5. It’s great for slow, scenic outdoor activities
Gregory Lake is a calm spot where you can rent a boat, hop on a horse, or just chill with a snack and enjoy the views. It’s not mind-blowing, but it’s relaxing and adds to Nuwara Eliya’s laid-back vibe.
The places to visit in Nuwara Eliya don’t always need to be packed with action—and this lake is proof.
6. It’s a fun spot to try local flavors and shop like a local
Nuwara Eliya’s Central Market is packed with color—fresh veggies, fruits, and tons of street food.
You’ll also find short eats, Indian-inspired dishes, and handmade souvenirs. For foodies or bargain hunters, this is one of the most authentic Nuwara Eliya attractions to check out.
❌ Reasons to skip Nuwara Eliya (why it might not be for you!)
1. Short on time? You might want to look elsewhere
If your trip to Sri Lanka is under 10 days, I’ll be honest—Nuwara Eliya might not make the cut. It’s tucked away in the central highlands, and getting there takes time.
Whether you’re taking the famous train ride or going by tuk-tuk, expect long, winding roads. For many travelers, especially those trying to squeeze in a packed Nuwara Eliya itinerary, the travel time alone can feel like a commitment.
2. It’s cold—like really cold (for Sri Lanka)
This might be a surprise, but it can get chilly up here. Night temps can drop to 10 °C (34 °F) or even lower, especially during the shoulder seasons.
If you’re chasing tropical weather, beach days, and sunshine, this might not be your vibe. I definitely had to break out a jumper and socks, which I never thought I’d need in Sri Lanka.
3. Not big on cultural or historical sights. You might be disappointed
Nuwara Eliya shines when it comes to nature—but not so much when it comes to culture. Unlike other beautiful places in Sri Lanka like Kandy or Sigiriya, there aren’t many relevant temples or ruins.
If you prefer exploring ancient sites or soaking up history, you may want to spend that time elsewhere.
4. Don’t expect buzzing nights out
Looking for cool bars, beach parties, or a city that stays up late? You won’t find that here.
Evenings in Nuwara Eliya are super quiet—most places shut early, and there’s not much of a nightlife scene. If you’re all about sunset cocktails and music, consider visiting places like Ella instead.
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Is Nuwara Eliya right for you? Here’s Who should visit (and who shouldn’t)
Not every destination is a perfect fit for every traveler. And Nuwara Eliya is no exception.
Before locking it into your Sri Lanka itinerary, take a moment to figure out if this peaceful highland town actually matches your travel vibe.
✅ Who will love Nuwara Eliya
» Nature Enthusiasts
If you’re someone who lights up around mountains, waterfalls, and green open spaces—this one’s for you. From the misty trails of Horton Plains to the well-kept paths at Victoria Park, there’s no shortage of beautiful places in Nuwara Eliya.
It’s also ideal if you’re after a change of scenery from Sri Lanka’s usual tropical setting.
» Colonial Architecture Buffs
Nuwara Eliya isn’t packed with ancient temples. But if you enjoy colonial-style buildings and quiet towns with old-school charm, you’ll love it here.
Places like the Grand Hotel, the red-brick post office, and Tudor-style mansions add a layer of nostalgia you won’t find in beach towns or cultural cities.
» Tea Lovers, This Is Your Playground
Love a good cup of tea? Then you’ll want to carve out time for at least one day in Nuwara Eliya.
This is where Sri Lanka’s world-famous tea is grown and processed.
You can visit estates like Pedro or Blue Field to walk through the tea gardens, see the factory in action, and taste some of the freshest brews you’ll ever have. It’s one of the most popular things to see in Nuwara Eliya, and for good reason.
❌ Who might want to skip it
» Beach Chasers & Sun Seekers
If your ideal trip involves palm-lined beaches, surfboards, and sunbathing—Nuwara Eliya probably isn’t for you.
It’s far from the coast and way cooler than the rest of Sri Lanka. While it’s lovely in its own way, it won’t satisfy that tropical getaway craving.
» Time-Constrained Travelers
Planning a fast-paced trip and trying to squeeze in as much as possible? You might want to pass.
Reaching Nuwara Eliya can be time-consuming, and if you’re only working with a week, it’s often smarter to focus on destinations that are easier to get to or better connected.
You won’t miss any major tourist attractions in Nuwara Eliya that you can’t find versions of elsewhere. For example, if you want to go there to see the tea plantations, you can also do it near Ella.
So, is Nuwara Eliya worth visiting? My honest verdict
After visiting it myself, here’s the truth: Nuwara Eliya can be worth visiting. But it depends entirely on your travel style and how much time you have.
✅ YES, if…
- You love nature, fresh air, and scenic landscapes
- You’re curious about tea plantations and other of the best places to visit in Nuwara Eliya, like Pedro Tea Estate or Horton Plains
- You enjoy cooler weather, slower days, and relaxing lakeside strolls
❌ NO, if…
- You’re short on time and only spending a week or less in Sri Lanka
- You’d rather visit cultural or historical sites like temples and ancient cities
- You’re craving warm beach days or a buzzing nightlife scene
Final thought: If you have at least 2 weeks in Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya is a fantastic addition. But if you’re on a short trip, you might be better off focusing on places like Ella, Kandy, or the south coast beaches.
💼 TRAVEL INSURANCE: Unexpected events happen anywhere in the world, so I always recommend getting travel insurance. I regularly use Heymondo, which offers some of the highest coverages on the market at very competitive prices. As well as covering medical expenses, Heymondo’s insurance also covers the loss or theft of luggage, electronic equipment and more. They also have a 24/7 customer service through their App. As A Ticket to Take Off reader, you get a 5% discount when purchasing Heymondo insurance. The purchase must be made using this link, and the price shown on the website already includes the discount.
Planning your visit to Nuwara Eliya? Here’s what you need to know!
So, you’ve decided to add Nuwara Eliya to your Sri Lanka itinerary—great choice. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your time there.
How to get to Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya doesn’t have its own train station or airport, but the best way to get there is by train. The best way to get to Nuwara Eliya is to get on a train that stops at Nanu Oya station, just 30 minutes away from town.
From there, it’s an easy tuk-tuk or taxi ride into the heart of Nuwara Eliya.
Getting from Ella to Nuwara Eliya
The train from Ella to Nanu Oya is one of the most iconic rides in Sri Lanka—and for good reason. The views? Absolutely insane.
Hop on a morning or early afternoon train, then grab a tuk-tuk or taxi for the 30-minute drive from Nanu Oya station to Nuwara Eliya town.
- Duration: 3–4 hours (train) + 30 minutes (tuk-tuk)
- Tip: Book your train ticket in advance, especially in high season.
Getting from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
The train stretch is just as scenic as the one from Ella, especially if you’re sitting on the right side of the train. The ride from Kandy to Nanu Oya takes longer than it looks on the map—but it’s well worth it.
- Duration: 4–5 hours (train) + 30 minutes (tuk-tuk)
- Alternative: Buses run from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya too, but they’re slower and less comfortable.
- Bonus: If you’ve rented a tuk-tuk, you can stop at waterfalls, tea plantations, and viewpoints along the way.
🎫 If you want a stress-free trip, consider booking a guided tour from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya with stops at scenic spots along the way—like tea plantations, waterfalls.
Getting from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya
This is the longest of the three and honestly, driving is the best bet here. You can take a train to Nanu Oya from Colombo Fort, but it’s a long journey.
- By train: 6–7 hours + 30-minute tuk-tuk ride
- By bus: Cheapest, but takes a full day
- By private car/driver: Around 5–6 hours and far more comfortable
If you’re after flexibility, renting a tuk-tuk is hands-down the best way to explore the hill country. That’s what I did—and I genuinely loved the freedom it gave me. I rented with Tuktuk Rental, and the whole process was smooth, from the paperwork to their travel tips.
Even if you take the train to Nanu Oya (which I highly recommend—it’s one of the world’s most scenic rides!), Tuktuk Rental lets you pick up your tuk-tuk after the journey so you get the best of both worlds.
🎫 Check out my full guide on how to rent a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka—it includes everything you need to know, plus a discount code!
Best places to stay in Nuwara Eliya
I stayed near Nanu Oya train station, which made the most sense for my itinerary.
I booked a room at a homestay called Dream Stay Green. It was pretty basic, but honestly, the room was comfortable, the hosts were friendly, and the views from the terrace were stunning.
Plus, the location was super convenient for getting to town and other nearby attractions.
Anyway, here are some more suggestions of accommodation in Nuwara Eliya:
Best time to visit Nuwara Eliya
The best time to go is January to March when the skies are clear and the temperatures are cool but pleasant.
Avoid September to December. It’s the rainy season, and you’re more likely to be stuck indoors dodging downpours than exploring the outdoors.
How many days in Nuwara Eliya
For most travelers, 1–2 days is plenty to explore what Nuwara Eliya has to offer. That gives you time to explore the highlights without feeling rushed.
Unless you’re super into hiking in Nuwara Eliya or want to take it extra slow, there’s no real need to stay longer.
What to see in Nuwara Eliya
There’s no shortage of things to do in Nuwara Eliya—especially if you’re into nature, tea, and easygoing vibes.
Here are some of the best places to visit in Nuwara Eliya that are worth adding to your itinerary:
- Horton Plains National Park & World’s End: One of the most popular spots for hiking in Nuwara Eliya. The trail to the World’s End winds through misty plains and ends at a dramatic cliff with sweeping views.
- Pedro Tea Estate: A peaceful place to learn how Ceylon tea is made, from leaf to cup. The views across the fields are stunning. And yes, you can taste the tea too.
- Bluefield Tea Factory & Garden (free, but you should make a donation at the end): On the way to Nuwara Eliya from Kandy or Ramboda, this is a great stop for a tour, a tasting, and a walk through the neatly manicured tea garden. This is the tea plantation I decided to visit and I really enjoyed it.
- Gregory Lake (600 LKR): Perfect for a chilled-out afternoon. You can rent a paddle boat or just sit and soak up the mountain views with a snack in hand. Just a heads-up—if you visit during low season or on a cloudy day, the view might not be as impressive.
- Ramboda Falls (200 LKR): One of the tallest and most accessible waterfalls in Sri Lanka. It’s right along the road from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya and it’s about 20 min to reach it on foot.
- Victoria Park: A quiet, well-kept park right in town.
- The Grand Hotel & Old Post Office: If you’re into history or colonial architecture, these are two famous places in Nuwara Eliya that give you a glimpse into its British past.
Final Thoughts on Nuwara Eliya
At the end of the day, only you can decide if Nuwara Eliya is worth visiting—but I hope this guide has helped you figure it out.
If you’re into nature, cooler weather, and tea-filled landscapes, this little corner of Sri Lanka offers something special.
And even though it’s quieter than other places in the country, there are still plenty of things to do in Nuwara Eliya to fill up a day or two—especially if you’re craving a break from the heat or the chaos of bigger cities.
Now I want to hear from you. Are you adding Nuwara Eliya to your itinerary? Still on the fence? Already been and have thoughts to share?
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