Nuwara Eliya, a renowned city in south-central Sri Lanka, sits at an elevation of 6,199 feet (1,889 meters) above sea level, giving it a unique Subtropical Highland climate. The average annual temperature ranges from 11 to 20°C, with recorded extremes of 0.4°C and 27.7°C. Nearby, Mount Pidurutalagala, standing at 8,281 feet (2,524 meters), is a prominent landmark, once known as Mount Pedro during the British era. Today, this mountain is a high-security zone, housing state communication and TV transmission towers. Discovered by Dr. John Davy in 1821, Nuwara Eliya became a favored hill station for British residents of colonial Ceylon, known for its temperate vegetation and as a major tea-growing region. Grand Hotel, located just 600 meters from the city center, offers a pleasant walk to the heart of Nuwara Eliya.
There are three excellent ways to reach Nuwara Eliya, each offering a unique travel experience to suit your journey to the Grand Hotel.
Travel from Colombo to Nanu Oya, followed by a scenic drive to Nuwara Eliya.
Drive directly from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya, enjoying the picturesque landscapes along the way.
Take a quick and convenient flight from Ratmalana (Colombo) to Nuwara Eliya, landing amidst the beautiful highlands.
Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
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Thursday, November 21, 2024
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Situated at 1,868 meters above sea level, Nuwara Eliya enjoys a comfortable, humid, and often overcast climate. The town, located at 6.97° N and 80.78° E, experiences temperatures ranging from 47°F to 72°F throughout the year, rarely dipping below 42°F or exceeding 79°F.
The ideal time to visit Nuwara Eliya for outdoor activities is from late February to early June, with the third week of March offering the most favorable conditions. The sky is generally clearer from early December through April, with February being the clearest month. The cloudier season begins in May and extends for about seven months, peaking in July.
April, with an average high of 22.9°C (73.22°F).
January, with an average high of 18.4°C (65.12°F).
October, receiving 228mm (9.0 inches) of rainfall.
March, with just 70mm (2.8 inches) of precipitation.
March, with an average of 198 hours of sunshine.
Nuwara Eliya is accessible via several scenic routes, including the Kandy-Nuwara Eliya road via Gampola or Hanguranketha and Walapane, the Badulla-Nuwara Eliya road, Haputale-Nuwara Eliya road, Avissawella-Nuwara Eliya road via Hatton, and the Bandarawela-Nuwara Eliya road. The city is approximately 175 km from Colombo, 75 km from Kandy (via the A5 Main Road), and 90 km from Ginigathhena (via the A7 Main Road). The drive to Nuwara Eliya, though bumpy in parts due to the tea plantations, offers rewarding views. However, those accustomed to faster driving might find the journey a bit challenging.
Although Nuwara Eliya itself doesn’t have a railway station, travelers can still reach this scenic hill station by taking a train to Nanu Oya, which is located just about 10 kilometers away. Nanu Oya is a key stop on the Main Line that connects Colombo to Badulla, and it’s renowned for offering one of the most breathtaking train journeys in Sri Lanka. As the train winds its way through the heart of the island, passengers are treated to stunning views of lush tea plantations, mist-covered valleys, and towering mountain ranges. The journey from Colombo to Nanu Oya typically takes around 7 hours, providing a comfortable and visually spectacular route to Nuwara Eliya. Once you arrive at Nanu Oya, a short drive will take you into the heart of Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as “Little England” for its charming colonial architecture and cool, temperate climate.
During peak months like April, August, and December, certain charter flight operators offer scheduled seaplane flights from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya. These flights usually depart from Colombo City (Waters Edge) at 10:30 AM and arrive at Lake Gregory, Nuwara Eliya, by 11:00 AM. The flight takes just 25 minutes, providing a swift alternative to the six-hour road journey.
For a stress-free travel experience, consider using a helicopter service. It allows you to avoid traffic, maintain your schedule, and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the stunning landscapes below. Helicopters can be arranged on a pre-determined date, departing from Colombo and landing at the Nuwara Eliya Race Course, just 500 meters from the hotel, with a travel time of about 50 minutes to an hour.
Nuwara Eliya offers an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka’s enchanting hill country. This immersive guide offers insight into the cold mist, tea estates, vistas, and more. Enjoy scenic train rides and immerse the atmosphere of this idyllic destination.
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Discover Nuwara Eliya's allure through tea plantations, waterfalls, Horton Plains National Park, colonial architecture, and the serenity of Gregory Lake.
St. Clair's, the wildest waterfall tumbles through vibrant green landscapes, showcasing nature's splendor in the heart of the island's central highlands.
Nuwara Eliya's Victoria Park is a tranquil haven, featuring vibrant flower beds and peaceful walkways, offering nature enthusiasts a lush, serene escape.
Moon Plains, 9.3 km from Nuwara Eliya, offers stunning vistas at 6,200 ft elevation. Mini World’s End, wildlife, and panoramic views make it a must-visit spot. Ideal for jeep safaris and cycling.
Ambewela Farm near Horton Plains, 17 km from Nuwara Eliya, known as Little New Zealand, offers dairy products, scenic beauty, and tranquility. Established with New Zealand's aid, it's a must-visit.
Within a 30-minute drive from Nuwara Eliya town, strawberry farming occurs in open fields and poly tunnels. The large enterprise near Horton Plains offers tractor tours of strawberry fields, along with vegetables and strawberry products for sale.
Ramboda Waterfall, nestled amidst lush landscape in Sri Lanka, cascades dramatically, enchanting with its powerful beauty, a mesmerizing and captivating natural spectacle of unparalleled splendor.
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