A family vacationin the mountains
Nuwara Eliya was a popular family vacation spot even during the colonial era, when throngs of British families would flock to the city to enjoy the cool weather, watch the horse racing and engage in quintessential British activities such as boating, fishing, golfing and picnicking. The town still has much to offer vacationing families. Take your pick from the following list of kid friendly things to do in Nuwara Eliya.
Recreational Activities
Nuwara Eliya possesses a number of attractions for the young and old. With its pleasant climate and resplendent views of the mountain landscapes, the Victoria Park is a great place for mom and dad to take a stroll, while the kids run around and expel some energy. The vibrant tropical flowers and many birds that frequent the Hakgala Botanical Garden make it another great place to visit with the kids. Head over to Lake Gregory, where kids can enjoy pony rides, kite flying and paddle boating. You can also take along some snacks and have a picnic on the lake shore.
Strawberry Farm Visits
Take the family to one of the many strawberry farms that are located in Nuwara Eliya. Tour the farm, pick some fresh red berries and enjoy some delicious strawberry desserts at the cafes run by the farms.
Explore Tea Country
A complete experience of Nuwara Eliya definitely needs to include a visit to a tea estate. Nuwara Eliya is considered to be ‘tea country’, and is renowned for growing some of the world’s best tea. Many of the tea estates that function today, have been doing so for at least the past 100 years. Take the family on a tea tour, offered by most estates, so that they can learn about tea cultivation and about the traditional manufacturing process for tea production. Some of the estates also provide access to beautiful waterfalls that are bound to excite the kids.
Ramayana Trail
If your family enjoys history and legend, you should add the Ramayana Trail to your itinerary. The Nuwara Eliya region is considered to have been one of King Ravana’s strongholds, and to have been the last place he held the kidnapped Sita captive. Visits to the temples that are linked to the Ramayana can be intriguing for both young and old, while also providing insight to local culture.
Galway’s Land National Park
The Galway’s Land National Park has a 2km walking trail which is pretty easy and well suited for kids. The park itself is considered to be one of the most significant birding areas of the central highlands, and is a great place to catch a glimpse of native bird species as well as rare migrant species.