4 Places That Make the ‘Little England’ of Sri Lanka A Must-Visit

The ‘Little England of Sri Lanka’, is a genteel highland community, located at 2,000 meters above the sea level. Still emanating a British colonial feel to it, Nuwara Eliya does have a rose tinted, colonial era bungalows with pretty gardens, Tudor-style hotels and hedgerows.

This little town was once a favorite of British and believed to be founded by Samuel Baker in 1846. Samuel Baker was an explorer who also discovered Lake Albert in Uganda as well as the Nile River. Soon after making Nuwara Eliya which means “City of Light” their home away from home, the British started growing their English vegetables like strawberries and lettuce.

Although due to recent development in construction has blighted the natural scene to some degree, but the beauty of town still makes a fine halt for those who are looking for some relaxation and isolation. If you are awaiting the approval of your Sri Lanka ETA visa then make an itinerary of the places you would like to visit in Sri Lanka and include Nuwara Eliya in the list. Here are the main attractions you can visit in this town:

1.       Pedro Tea Estate- If you take your morning brew very seriously then head towards Pedro Tea Estate which is located about 3.5 km east of Nuwara Eliya on the way to Kandapola. Originally built in 1885, you can take a 20 minute guided tour of the factory which still features 19^th century engineering.

2.       Hakgala Gardens- Located 10km in the southeast of Nuwara Eliya, Hakgala Gardens are a peaceful retreat. The major highlights of the garden are Japanese garden, a fine rose garden, an orchid collection, giant cypresses and cedars.

3.       Seetha Amman Temple- This colorful Hindu Temple which is one of its kinds in the entire world is held in high respects by the Hindus. The temple is dedicated to the wife of Lord Rama -Sita and it is believed to be the place where Sita was held captive by the demon king Ravana. It is believed to be the place where she prayed daily for Rama to come and rescue her. The temple is located at a mere distance of 1 km from the Hakgala Gardens and 5 km from Nuwara Eliya. If you want to visit this beautiful temple make sur you apply for Sri Lanka ETA visa on time.

4.       Victoria Park- Victoria Park is one of the country`s most alluring, appealing and brilliantly maintained town parks. Take a stroll across its manicured lawns and you will have an amazing experience.  Best time to visit this park is either March to May or August to September as the park comes alive with blooming flowers and hill-country bird species that also include the Kashmir Flycatcher, Indian pitta and grey tit.

This little town of Sri Lanka offers verdant countryside surrounded of tea plantations, craggy hills and a pleasant weather. If you are planning to travel Sri Lanka this year, make sure that you do not miss out on Little England. To apply for Sri Lanka ETA visa you can visit sri-lankaeta.com.