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Nuwara Eliya

Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka's tea country, Nuwara Eliya is a charming city known for its soothing cool climate and breathtaking panorama of verdant mountains, meticulously terraced tea plantations, gushing streams, and towering waterfalls. Often referred to as 'Little England', this gorgeous city embodies quaint features of a British colonial past, from its well-preserved Victorian-style architecture to the manicured gardens and sophisticated hedgerows of its country house-like hill clubs. Apart from luxuriously sipping fresh local tea, visitors here can partake in visits to lush tea estates, enjoy a round of golf on an immaculate 18-hole course, indulge in trout fishing, or savor the beauty of blooming roses and magnolias in the renowned Hakgala Botanical Gardens. Houses of worship, like the Seetha Amman Temple, add to Nuwara Eliya's rich cultural flavor, making it an irresistible retreat for tourists seeking serenity and scenic beauty.

3.9 /5

Based on our research

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Safety:Safe

Nuwara Eliya is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. The locals are friendly and respectful, but like in any location, it is always important to remain aware of your surroundings. Crimes against tourists are not common, but it's wise to avoid very isolated areas and try not to travel at night on your own. Always keep in touch with someone about your whereabouts, and as long as you take standard precautions, you should have a safe journey.

Transport:Easy

Nuwara Eliya is fairly simple to navigate and explore. The town's compact nature allows for convenient exploration on foot, while local transport options like tuktuk and buses are available for longer distance. However, the roads can be somewhat confusing so a reliable GPS app or a local guide can be useful. Locals are generally friendly and willing to help if you get lost.

Things to do:Interesting

Nuwara Eliya holds a captivating blend of panoramic landscapes and colonial history. The city's lush tea plantations, botanical gardens like Hakgala, and scenic lakes like Gregory are not to be missed. Visit the Seetha Amman Temple, a highlight of the city's rich cultural tapestry. The ambience is usually cool and refreshing, a contrast to the tropics of the rest of the country. For solo female travellers seeking peace and rejuvenation, soaking in the natural beauty of Nuwara Eliya can be an inspiring experience. However, it may lack variety in terms of bustling city activities or nightlife.

Food:Above average

Nuwara Eliya offers a good variety of food options. The cuisine is quite diverse, ranging from authentic Sri Lankan dishes to international fare. You’ll find a plethora of fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat dishes here. Seafood is also popular, despite the town's location in the hill country, away from the coast. Many local dishes are made with unique spices for which Sri Lanka is famous. Dishes are typically flavorful and appealing. Street food in local markets is a must-try for any food enthusiast. However, if you prefer less spicy food or have certain dietary restrictions, options might be a bit limited.

Budget:Affordable

Nuwara Eliya is relatively budget-friendly for solo female travelers. The cost of accommodation, food, and transportation is reasonable compared to other often-visited destinations in Sri Lanka. There are low-cost guesthouses and local restaurants providing cheap, yet delicious, local meals. Additionally, the main attractions like tea plantations, gardens and hikes often have little to no entrance fees. However, prices can vary depending on the season.

Shaf (42)

South Africa

Solo travel experience

I spent one day and night here in order to take the train to Ella. I wish I had stayed longer! The crisp weather was a refreshing break from the heat. The town is adorable and a lovely paradox: Asian culture and European aesthetics. I wasn't able to do much but I loved just walking around and exploring the pretty buildings. There are loads of great places to eat, but I enjoyed the Indian food and warm service at Grand Indian.

Posted: January 23, 2024Experienced: November, 2023

Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5