Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka? If you're planning to go to Nuwara Eliya, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

Based on the climate and weather in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Nuwara Eliya, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka by month

January

If you are traveling to Nuwara Eliya in January, you will notice that it is crisp. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuwara Eliya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

February

If you go to Nuwara Eliya in February, you will notice that it is relatively cool. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuwara Eliya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to get the correct type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

March

If you are traveling to Nuwara Eliya in March, you will notice that it can be chilly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuwara Eliya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to find the correct kind. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

April

If you are traveling to Nuwara Eliya in April, you will notice that it is mild. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuwara Eliya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to get the right kind. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

May

If you are traveling to Nuwara Eliya in May, you will notice that it is mild. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuwara Eliya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you find the right type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

June

June in this region is mild. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuwara Eliya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

July

July is balmy. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuwara Eliya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

August

If you are traveling to Nuwara Eliya in August, you will notice that it is mild. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuwara Eliya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

September

If you go to Nuwara Eliya in September, you will notice that it is balmy. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuwara Eliya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you pick the necessary kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

October

Traveling to Nuwara Eliya in October, you will notice that it is balmy. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuwara Eliya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to find the right kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

November

Traveling to Nuwara Eliya in November, you will notice that it is balmy. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuwara Eliya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

December

December in this region is crisp. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuwara Eliya. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to pick the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

What to do in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as "Little England," is a picturesque hill town located in Sri Lanka's Central Province. This charming destination, surrounded by lush green tea plantations and rolling hills, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With a tranquil atmosphere, cozy climate, and stunning natural beauty, Nuwara Eliya has become a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Nuwara Eliya that you shouldn't miss:

1. Horton Plains National Park - One of the most stunning natural parks in Sri Lanka, Horton Plains is known for its dramatic landscapes, including dense forests, rolling hills, and waterfalls. The park is home to many rare species such as the Sri Lankan Leopard, Sambar Deer, and Purple-faced Langur.

2. Tea Plantations - Nuwara Eliya is known for its world-famous tea plantations, where you can witness the production process and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea while surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

3. Gregory Lake - A man-made lake created by Governor William Gregory in the 19th century, Gregory Lake is a popular attraction for visitors to Nuwara Eliya. The serene lake offers boating activities, and horse riding.

4. Victoria Park - A beautiful park situated in the center of the town, Victoria Park is a beautiful place for a morning walk. It's home to many species of birds and various kinds of flora and fauna.

5. Galway's Land Bird Sanctuary - A paradise for birdwatchers, the Galway's Land Bird Sanctuary is home to over 20 species of birds, such as Yellow-eared Bulbul, Grey-headed Canary Flycatcher, and Sri Lanka Scimitar-babbler.

6. Seetha Amman Kovil - A Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Seetha, this beautiful temple is located on the outskirts of the town. It is believed that Goddess Seetha was kept captive in this area during the Ramayana era.

7. Pedro Tea Factory - Another fantastic tea plantation, Pedro Tea Factory offers guided tours, and you can learn about tea-making traditions and the history of the tea industry in Sri Lanka.

Nuwara Eliya is a destination that must be on your travel bucket list. From the stunning natural landscapes to the iconic landmarks and cultural attractions, there is something for everyone in this charming town. So, pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to Nuwara Eliya for an experience of a lifetime.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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