How to Explore Nuwara Eliya in 2 Days

Although a weekend or two days may not be sufficient to experience everything that Little England has to offer, it is more than enough time to enjoy some of the main highlights. Whether you're visiting the hill station for the cool mountain air or to explore Sri Lanka's tea country, there's plenty to see and do in this fascinating region of the island. Here's a list of some of the best ways to explore the breathtaking city in the hills during a two-day visit.

Day One: Morning Explore a Colonial-Era  Tea Factory

The best way to kick-start a 2-day getaway in Nuwara Eliya is with a tea estate and factory tour. Those based at 5-star hotels in Nuwara Eliya such as the Heritance Tea Factory will find that they don't need to venture far to explore the area's lush tea plantations. In addition to diving into the rich history of Ceylon Tea and engaging in tea-tasting sessions, visitors can get an in-depth look at how tea leaves are handpicked and processed back at the factory to produce an aromatic cup of nature's bounty. Those who wish to purchase tea-themed gifts for loved ones back home can also pick up quality Ceylon Tea from the factory's own tea outlet.

Day One: Midday - Relax at Hakgala Botanical Gardens

This horticultural heartland is considered to be one of the world's highest-altitude botanical gardens and is located in Nuwara Eliya. It is not an ordinary attraction and is one of the most scenic spots in Sri Lanka. The sprawling space is dedicated to blooms of a hundred hues and is the perfect place to relax after a hearty lunch. The parkland contains several greenhouses, a medicinal garden, and highlights such as the Rose Garden and enclaves devoted to orchids.

Day One: Evening - Sign up for a Boat Ride around Gregory Lake

There's no better way to end a glorious first day in Nuwara Eliya than with a boating excursion on Gregory Lake. Occupying the heart of Nuwara Eliya town, this man made body of water was established in the 1820s by none other than Governor William Gregory who also used the lake for water sports activities.

Day Two: Morning - Shop Around

The second day in Nuwara Eliya can begin with a shopping spree at the Winter Market, which is also called the Bale Bazaar by local residents. As one of the best places to buy winter wear in Sri Lanka, the market is the ideal venue to pick up affordable jerseys, sweaters, windbreakers and mufflers. Don't forget to drop by the Laksala Gifts shop and the Franciscan Sister’s Jam Room, where freshly-made jams from the church's own gardens are on sale.

Day Two: Midday - Visit St Clair Falls

Grab some lunch and drive up to witness the majesty of St Clair Falls before the light recedes as it is one of the island's most captivating cascades. Those who love to chase waterfalls will find that Nuwara Eliya is home to more waterfalls than any other city in Sri Lanka.

Day Two: Afternoon - Pick Strawberries at Adma Agro Farm

Head over to the Adma Agro Farm for an afternoon strawberry picking excursion, as it's possibly the most rewarding activity that nature lovers can engage in during a trip to Nuwara Eliya. Afterwards, drop by the venue's café to sip on fresh strawberry juice or a slice of strawberry cake instead of enjoying afternoon tea as usual.

Day Two: Evening - Picnic at Victoria Park

Before driving back to the hotel to pack for the trip back home, visitors should pop by the largest public park in Nuwara Eliya for a picnic. Victoria Park, which was built in honor of Queen Victoria's 60th jubilee coronation back in 1897, is a 27-acre enclave lined with jogging paths, a playground and flower beds where visitors can unwind and bid ad ieu to the hill station until the next visit.