Everyone is well aware of the charm and beauty of perhaps the most visited place in the Hill Country. ‘Little England’ is rich in culture, heritage and is home to a multitude of breathtaking wonders.
1. Gregory Lake
Set in a scenic environment the lake is one of the main attractions in Nuwara Eliya.
Gregory Lake is a serene environment, complete with a stretch of green grass and grazing horses where countless visitors go to unwind. Here, along the lake you will see groups either enjoying a family picnic, riding horses, on a paddle boat or taking a leisurely stroll.
One of the main attractions in Nuwara Eliya, Gregory Lake was built by Governor William Gregory between 1872 and 1877, in order to utilise the water from the Nanu Oya which runs across the town. It is said that the lake was used for water sports and recreational activities during the British period.
2. Victoria Park
An ornate public park to get away from a busy life
The park is said to be named to commemorate the 60th Jubilee Coronation of Queen Victoria in the year 1897. Originally this was used as the research field of Haggala Botanical Garden. 27 acres in size, the park is home to many foreign species of trees. The location is a frequently-visited destination of birdwatchers as the serene atmosphere provides the opportunity to observe a large number of rare birds. There is also plenty of space for kids to play. The park comes alive with flowers during the month of April. Get a breath of fresh mountain air while relaxing in the warmth of nature at Victoria Park, Nuwara Eliya.
3. Bale Bazaar
The Winter Market for all your winter-related gear.
Locally referred to as the Bale Bazaar, it is also called the Winter Market. Aptly named, at a glance you will see that the market houses a majority of products that are winter-related (cold weather, since there is no real winter in Sri Lanka). This is where you should go to gear up for the harsh climates, if you’re planning to stay a day or two in Nuwara Eliya. You will also come across a countless number of people who have driven in from far off, with the sole purpose of stocking up on some high-quality and affordable winter-wear before they fly back to their wintery homes abroad. The Bale Bazaar is a great stop filled with a diverse array of clothing and winter wear which you can get for a great bargain. Don’t miss out!
4. Tea Estates
On the way to Nuwara Eliya or if you are to drive a few minutes away from the town, you will be treated to breathtaking views of tea estates! Make your way through the maze of tea bushes and discover where the elixirs of Sri Lanka come from. There are many tea plantations and tea factories that will be more than happy to show you around, and explain the tea plucking and tea-making processes as well as let you try some of their freshly brewed tea! A truly Sri Lankan experience.
5. Strawberry Fields
For an enchanting experience, visit one of the many strawberry fields in Nuwara Eliya. A sea of emerald dotted with juicy strawberries will greet you as you inch closer (a great backdrop for your photographs) and at certain fields during the season time, you are able to walk through the fields picking your own strawberries! It is also possible to arrange a tractor tour around the premises—just speak to your tour guides or the ticketing counter. Some of these fields also have an attached shop where freshly picked strawberries along with jams, juices and other strawberry-based products are readily available.
...[ Continue to next page ]
Comments