Nuwara Eliya Heritage Excursions

Nuwara Eliya, 48 km from Tea Trails, was first conceived as a health resort - a ‘hill station’ in British jargon - around the year 1825. After the area was ‘discovered’ by a British hunting party in 1819, Sir Samuel Baker, the well-known explorer, fell under its spell in 1846 and planning to make it his home, imported to Nuwara Eliya all the appointments of an English country town, including a bailiff, Hereford and Durham cows, and even a blacksmith and a forge.

Nuwara Eliya is where old-world English architecture meets an evolving city striving to define a new identity, with old symbols of British Heritage standing strong. One such example is the ‘Hill Club’ – a castle-like private resort that was once a bastion of leisure and lifestyle of the elite. Visitors are welcome for a brief tour and a spot of tea on the lawn.

Other sites that can be visited include Lake Gregory, the Hakgala Botanical Gardens and the lively commotion of the Nuwara Eliya Market. The age-old Grand Hotel which also houses Dilmah Tea Lounge is also part of the experience.The day trip to Nuwara Eliya is in the company of a Tea Trails resident Naturalist who is well versed in the significance and detail of key points of interests. Guests also have the option to experience part of the excursion by train, which we recommended for beautiful views and scenery.

A chronicle of remarkable narratives from across our island and resorts.