DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF SRI LANKA’S HIGHLANDS

The nation’s central region, which spans mountains, waterfalls, tea plantations and colonial-era bungalows, offers a wide range of adventures

Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands are wellknown for tea, but there’s a lot more to them. Set your sights on its major city, Nuwara Eliya, and you’ll find a serene spot to explore with plenty of adventurous thrills. Where to stay? The Georgian-style Jetwing St Andrew’s, which provides a platform from which to indulge in the region’s sprawling nature, rich wildlife and traditional culture.

Enjoy relaxing city walks

Dubbed ‘Little England’, Nuwara Eliya is a go-slow place with remnants of the British colonial era popping up in all corners. Head to its centrepiece, the sprawling Gregory Lake; gaze at the immaculate gardens at Victoria Park; and wander around the city centre, breezing in and out of shops and picking up fresh juices.

Head out into nature

Kick off the day with a trip to the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, whose pristine flower beds are filled with fragrant botanicals, or whizz over Moon Plains — a reconditioned rubbish ground whose slopes are now home to elks, buffalos and leopards. Looking for a challenge? Try climbing Adam’s Peak or head to Devon Falls, where misty views of the highlands break through the clouds.

Discover some of Sri Lanka’s most elusive wildlife

Book a walk with Jetwing St Andrew’s naturalist after sunset and prepare to be left in awe by the cast of creatures darting around the gardens as darkness falls. Walk along winding paths and shine torches down holes in the earth to catch sight of frogs, otters and lizards.

Take part in an authentic tea experience

Tea is a complex business in Sri Lanka, and Nuwara Eliya is nestled amid the country’s verdant tea plantations. Sign up to a tour of a tea factory to witness how freshly plucked leaves make it into teacups, and take a walk through the tea estate, stopping to drink a refreshing cup of the famous beverage in the shade.

Play an 18-hole golf course

Nuwara Eliya Golf Club sprung up in

1899 as a cool-clime course for the British servicemen and tea makers in the region. Tee off here and you’ll take in scenic views of forested hills and mist-covered mountains. Let’s not forget its provenance: this is one of Asia’s oldest — and most spectacular — golf courses.