Location

Journey to the Hidden Gems

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.

Getting Here

There are three excellent ways to reach Nuwara Eliya, each offering a unique travel experience to suit your journey to the Grand Hotel.

By Rail

Travel from Colombo to Nanu Oya, followed by a scenic drive to Nuwara Eliya.

By Road

Drive directly from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya, enjoying the picturesque landscapes along the way.

By Helicopter or Seaplane

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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Friday, December 06, 2024

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Climate Overview of Nuwara Eliya

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.

Climate Highlights

Warmest Month

April, with an average high of 22.9°C (73.22°F).

Coldest Month

January, with an average high of 18.4°C (65.12°F).

Wettest Month

October, receiving 228mm (9.0 inches) of rainfall.

Driest Month

March, with just 70mm (2.8 inches) of precipitation.

Sunniest Month

March, with an average of 198 hours of sunshine.

Transportation

By Road

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.

By Rail

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.

By Air

Seaplane

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.

Helicopter

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.

Discover Nuwara Eliya

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.

Things To Do Around Nuwara Eliya

Must do Experiences in Nuwara Eliya

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