Nestled among Sri Lanka's verdant hills, we decided to explore Nuwara Eliya, a town that promised a quaint British experience within the heart of the island nation. I sought a brief respite from the long train journey between Kandy and Ella, with plans to immerse myself in the curious charm of "Little England" for a single night.
Upon our arrival, Nuwara Eliya's worn exterior belied its European moniker. The town's streets were a far cry from the idyllic countryside I had imagined. However, amidst the urban grime, a scattering of British-style homes and hotels served as a reminder of the colonial past.
Despite not visiting any tea plantations up close, the surrounding landscape of lush tea gardens became the highlight of my trip. An early morning hike through these emerald terraces offered breathtaking vistas that captured the true essence of Sri Lanka's natural beauty.
With just a fleeting stay, I did not experience any memorable encounters with the locals. Nuwara Eliya, though steeped in history and a unique blend of cultures, ultimately failed to captivate me. My advice for fellow travelers? If you seek an authentic Sri Lankan experience, look beyond this curious, if underwhelming, town.
Reading
- Kyle: Man's Search For Meaning by Viktor Frankl
- Kelsey: The Three-Body Problem by Cixin Liu