If you’re looking for things to do in Nuwara Eliya, besides snuggling by the fire with a nice cup of hot chocolate which I highly recommend by the way, here’s a list of activities for the “not” couch potatoes.

1. Take a Drive to Horton Plains

Here’s the great thing about Horton Plains. It’s got something for everyone regardless of whether or not you’re an early bird or a night owl. For the early birds out there, an early morning hike to World’s End is a must. There’s little that can beat an early morning stroll through forests and patana grasslands. The view at the end of the hike makes the early morning wakeup call well worth it. For those who have already undertaken the famous World’s End hike, Kirigalpotha is always a good hike for a second visit.

The best part about Horton Plains? It’s still a great adventure even if you are not a morning person. Home to stately Sāmbhar and the majestic leopard, an evening safari through the park is sure to be an evening well spent. An afternoon hike up to Thotapolukanda is an easy hike and an enjoyable close to the day. I would highly recommend a stop by at the Jagro farms on your way back to Nuwara Eliya or packing a picnic basket to enjoy once you have left the park.

2. Safari to Moon Plains

Looking for a quick nature excursion just outside the town then Moon Plains is the place for you. A verdant valley the lookout point at Moon Plains boasts a fantastic view on a clear day. Home to a variety of wildlife, safari goers should keep their eyes peeled for deer and if lucky the elusive leopard. Dozens of bird species also nest in the plains, and I would never have guessed even peacocks. Seeing a peacock strut over a ridge, well, that was a surprise.

3. Visit a Tea Plantation and Factory

Nuwara Eliya is the heartland of the famous Ceylon Tea. You would be remiss if you miss out on a visit to a tea factory whilst there. The Pedro Tea Factory is an excellent option that is situated just 15 minutes from town. They offer an informative tea factory tour detailing the tea making process ending with a taste of the end product. I am particularly fond of the Labookellie Tea Factory on the drive up to Nuwara Eliya where ending the tour with chocolate cake and a cup of tea is my favourite part. The Labookellie Special Blend, makes a fantastic gift for loved ones, and is an excellent way to start your morning. I swear this is not a paid endorsement, buy a pack on your way out and thank me later.  You know the tea is good when your ex-planter tea addict of a hubby gives it his endorsement!

4. Visit the Gregory Lake

Gregory’s lake has become synonymous with a visit to Nuwara Eliya and no trip is complete without a stroll around the lake. The biting chill in the air makes it a brisk and invigorating walk. The food carts along the lake, help keep you warm, with their jumbo hotdogs on sticks, potato spirals, cotton candy and the famed prima kottumee noodles. If your feeling adventurous, zip across the lake on a jet-ski, or enjoy a romantic paddle boat for two.  

Nuwara Eliya City Tour

I have always loved taking a stroll around Nuwara Eliya town. Compact in size, this city tour can be done on foot or by vehicle. Make sure to stop by the central market which boasts some of the freshest veggies in the country, and if like me, you enjoy the sight of fresh produce, this place is heaven. You can even pick something up to cook for the evening. I also never miss an opportunity to scout the fruit markets for Nuwara Eliya peaches, pears, tree tomatoes, strawberries and rhubarb. Local delicacies these are definite treats for the taste buds.

No tour of Nuwara Eliya town would be complete without a stop at the old post office, and whilst I would under usual circumstances never resort to the post as a means of communication, there is something fun about shooting off a post card from one of the oldest post offices in Sri Lanka. The bale bazaar is great for affordable winter wear in case you forgot to pack your coat.

Visit a Garden

Nuwara Eliya is nothing if not a riot of colour boasting its beautiful floral blooms. A leisurely stroll through the Victoria gardens is always a delight, as an afternoon meandering through the well-manicured gardens of the Grand Hotel. I personally, like to finish my garden strolls with a hot latte at the Grand Cafe.