Nuwara Eliya district

Nuwara Eliya district is a unique district in Sri Lanka. It is known for its cool climate and beautiful landscapes. It is often called “Little England” because of its British-style bungalows and gardens. This district is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists who want to enjoy nature and escape the heat of the lowlands. It is known as නුවරඑළිය දිස්ත්‍රික්කය (Nuvaraeḷiya distrikkaya) in Sinhala and நுவரெலியா மாவட்டம் (Nuvareliyā Māvaṭṭam) in Tamil.

History

The history of Nuwara Eliya is rich and fascinating. It began as a forest land that was mostly untouched until the British colonial period. In the early 19th century, the Scottish tea planter James Taylor realized its potential for growing tea. This discovery changed Nuwara Eliya forever. The British started tea plantations, and soon, it became a major tea-producing area. The cool weather was perfect for growing tea, and the tea industry boomed. Over time, Nuwara Eliya became a popular retreat for British colonial officers seeking cooler climates.

Geography

Nuwara Eliya is located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, at an altitude of about 6,000 feet above sea level. This high elevation gives it a cooler temperature compared to the rest of the country, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C. The district is known for its lush green hills, waterfalls, and misty landscapes. The tallest mountain in Sri Lanka, Pidurutalagala, is also located here, standing at 2,524 meters. This area receives a significant amount of rainfall, especially during the southwest monsoon season, helping to maintain its deep green landscapes.