Often referred to as ‘Little England’, this genteel highland community does have a rose-tinted, vaguely British-country-village feel to it, with its colonial-era bungalows, Tudor-style hotels, well-tended hedgerows and pretty gardens. Indeed, Nuwara Eliya was once was the favored cool-climate escape for the hard-working and hard-drinking English and Scottish pioneers of Sri Lanka’s tea industry.
A recent construction boom has blighted the scene to a degree, and the dusty and bustling centre is a thoroughly Sri Lankan urban tangle, but Nuwara Eliya still makes a fine base for a few days' relaxation. The verdant surrounding countryside of tea plantations, carefully tended vegetable plots and craggy hills is highly scenic. Treat yourself to a night in one of Nuwara Eliya’s colonial hotels, play a round of golf or a few frames of billiards, and soak up the town’s unique bygone heritage.
Pickup included
This lake is popular with domestic tourists who enjoy strolling the footpaths, taking out a swan-shaped pedal boat (30 minutes Rs 500) or trotting around on a pony (15 minutes Rs 300). However be warned that jet skis and speedboats disturb the peace on weekends, and during holiday times expect big crowds and funfairs. There are picnic tables, a small restaurant and a snack bar. Boat hire is from the smaller adjoining lake on the opposite side of the road from the main lake.
Rivers, as they flow over uneven ground or down mountains, often split into tributaries or form waterfalls. Sometimes two tributaries of the same river may form twin waterfalls very close to each other as the water spills down cliffs and rocks. However, it is quite uncommon for the tributaries to combine after forming the waterfalls making a Y shape.Ramboda Falls is 109 m (358 ft) high[ and 11th highest waterfall in Sri Lanka and 729th highest waterfall in the world.It is situated in Pussellawa area, on the A5 highway at Ramboda Pass. It formed by Panna Oya which is a tributary of Kothmale Oya. Altitude of the falls is 945 m (3,100 ft) above sea level.
This is one of the country’s most attractive, and best-maintained, town parks. A stroll around its paths, past manicured lawns, is a pleasure. The park comes alive with flowers around March to May, and August and September. It’s also home to quite a number of hill-country bird species, including the Kashmir flycatcher, Indian pitta and grey tit.
These attractive gardens, 10km southeast of Nuwara Eliya, are a peaceful retreat. Highlights include a fine rose garden, a Japanese garden, an orchid collection, cedars and giant cypresses. However, the entrance fee is very steep for foreigners. Planting season is between January and late March and at these times the gardens don’t really look their best.
Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling commercial capital, is a vibrant blend of modern life and colonial charm. With its diverse culture, rich history, and tropical beauty, the city offers everything from historic sites and religious landmarks to lively markets and beautiful beaches.
A scenic promenade along the Indian Ocean, popular for kite flying, evening strolls, and street food.
Sri Lanka's largest museum, showcasing the country's rich history and cultural heritage.
An ancient Buddhist temple with significant historical and religious importance.
A scenic lake in the heart of Colombo, offering boat rides and beautiful views.
A historic building transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination.
A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries made from vegetables, meat, or fish.
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.
A popular street food made from chopped roti (flatbread) cooked with vegetables, meat, or fish, and spices.
A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.
This period offers the best weather for visiting, with warm temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
GMT+5:30
230VV, 50HzHz
Colombo is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Be cautious of pickpocketing, bag snatching, and overcharging by taxis and vendors.
Colombo Fort Station
Bastion Street Bus Terminal, Colombo Central Bus Stand
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow.
Available • Apps: Uber, PickMe
Car, Bike, Scooter
Kandy, the last capital of the ancient kings' era, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and scenic beauty.
Galle is a historic coastal city known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dutch Fort, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.
Negombo is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant fishing industry.
Price varies by option