Four Uncommon Places to Visit in Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya, sometimes called ‘Little England’, is a small town perched high in the mountains of Sri Lanka. Although lacking in size, it certainly makes up for it with the many activities you could engage in, from trekking through Horton Plains National Park, exploring the nearby Pedro Tea Estate, going on a boat ride on Lake Gregory, and strolling along Victoria Park. While these are the more common things to do in Nuwara Eliya, there are other uncommon places to visit in Nuwara Eliya for couples, family, and even the solo traveller. Here are four uncommon, but equally important attractions in Nuwara Eliya to visit.

It is without a doubt that the vast Horton Plains National Park is the most notable nature reserve in the region, which is known for unique biodiversity. More recently, however, the Galway’s Land National Park also possesses an interesting landscape that is filled with so many diverse flora and fauna. Although small, there is a lot to see and do here, as it serves to be a great place to engage in a short hike.

The park is also a great place to go birdwatching, if you do not want to venture far from the city limits of Nuwara Eliya, as there are more than 20 species of birds that take refuge in the treetops. Other mammals such as buffalos, wild boars, and barking deer can also be seen when hiking across the nature trails. The experience is guaranteed to be all the more memorable with the assistance of Jetwing St. Andrew’s, as it is one of the more sought-after luxury hotels in Nuwara Eliya and is located in close proximity to the national park.

Steeped in myth, the Seetha Amman Temple is a unique temple and the only one of its kind in the island, as it is dedicated to the wife of Prince Rama of India. According to the Ramayana (an ancient chronicle that talks of conflict between Prince Rama of India and King Ravana of Sri Lanka), it is the very place that King Ravana imprisoned the wife of Prince Rama, Seetha.

Although a myth, there is reason to believe that the story is true, as the footprints of varying size at the nearby rocks are believed to be of Lord Hanuman, who came to save Seetha.

Just like the Galway’s Land National Park, the Moon Plains is another place that showcases the natural splendour of the central highlands. Although a nature reserve, the highlight of this particular place is its mountain trek, which will enable you to see amazing views of the lush green hills. In addition to the scenery, there are many animals that dwell in the plains, and if you are lucky, you just might be able to spot the roaming elk, buffalos, and deer.

The Single Tree Hill, which is considered to be the 10th tallest mountain in the island still makes for a challenging climb and rewarding vistas. Climbing the mountain will take you through resplendent tea estates, and many other interesting features. Make sure you climb the mountain in the early hours of the morning, as the sunrise and the view of the distant mountain ranges and the town of Nuwara Eliya below make for an iconic view of the hill country.
When you do visit, make sure you add these in your list of Nuwara Eliya travel places. Make it even more convenient by staying in a central location like Jetwing St. Andrew’s, as it makes these places all the more accessible, which would make the entire trip to the city a memorable one.