How to Reach Nawalapitiya in Sri Lanka
Nawalapitiya is a beautiful town located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. If you are planning to visit Nawalapitiya, here are some ways to reach this enchanting destination:
Nawalapitiya
Nawalapitiya is a small picturesque town located in the central province of Sri Lanka. It is situated approximately 30 kilometers away from…
Best for you if…
- A week-long stay
- Exploring with transit or a car
- Nature and Wildlife travelers
- Historical Sites travelers
- Visiting in December to February
More about this guide
Nawalapitiya is a strong pick for nature and wildlife & historical sites — plan about 5-7 days days; group places into half-day loops. Peak season: December to February.
Solid guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 63/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)
Spread density — Sights are more spread out — plan transport between stops.
5-7 days
Recommended days
December to February
Best season
8
Nearby places
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When to go
High season: December to February
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Best months for lower-cost travel: April · May · September · October
Weather
Autumn
September to November
Spring
March to May
Summer
June to August
Winter
December to February
How to get there
By Air:
The nearest international airport to Nawalapitiya is the Bandaranaike International Airport located in Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Nawalapitiya. The distance between the airport and Nawalapitiya is approximately 130 kilometers, and the journey takes around 3-4 hours depending on the traffic conditions.
By Train:
Travelling by train to Nawalapitiya is a popular option among tourists as it offers scenic views of the breathtaking landscapes of Sri Lanka. There is a direct train service available from Colombo to Nawalapitiya, and the journey takes around 4-5 hours. The train ride is a memorable experience, passing through lush tea plantations and picturesque valleys.
By Bus:
Nawalapitiya is well-connected to major cities and towns in Sri Lanka through an extensive bus network. You can take a bus from Colombo or other nearby cities like Kandy or Nuwara Eliya. The bus journey to Nawalapitiya can take around 4-5 hours depending on the traffic and road conditions.
By Car:
If you prefer a more private and convenient mode of transportation, you can hire a car or take a taxi to reach Nawalapitiya. The town is easily accessible by road, and the journey offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and tea estates. The distance from Colombo to Nawalapitiya is approximately 130 kilometers, and it takes around 3-4 hours to reach by car.
Once you arrive in Nawalapitiya, you will be captivated by its natural beauty and charm. The town is known for its tea plantations, scenic landscapes, and pleasant climate. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or simply seeking tranquility, Nawalapitiya has something to offer for everyone.
Getting to know Nawalapitiya
Nawalapitiya is a small picturesque town located in the central province of Sri Lanka. It is situated approximately 30 kilometers away from the city of Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. The town is surrounded by lush tea plantations and offers scenic views of misty mountains. The name Nawalapitiya means "nine towns" in Sinhalese, which refers to the nine villages that were merged to form the town.
Nawalapitiya is known for its cool climate and is a popular destination for those who want to escape the heat and humidity of the lowlands. It is also a hub for the tea industry in Sri Lanka and visitors can take a tour of the tea factories and learn about the production process. The town also has a rich history and visitors can explore the ancient temples and ruins that date back to the Kandyan era.
Overall, Nawalapitiya is a tranquil town that offers a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you want to admire the breathtaking scenery, sip on a cup of tea or learn about Sri Lanka's rich history, Nawalapitiya is definitely worth a visit.
Pre-trip checklist
Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.
Local tips
- Try the famous Ceylon tea in Nawalapitiya
- Visit the scenic Ramboda Falls
- Explore the Horton Plains National Park
- Take a train ride through the beautiful tea estates
- Experience the traditional Sri Lankan culture and cuisine
The Grand Walawwa
Winston Wickramasinghe Mawatha, Kegalle, Sabaragamuwa Province
Highland Stonehouse Luxury Boutique Hotel
Unique View Road, Haddon Hill, Central Province
Tea Bush Hotel Nuwara Eliya
Well-reviewed by many guests
Haddon Hill Rd, Haddon Hill, Central Province 22200
Windsor Hotel
Well-reviewed by many guests
Old Kandy Road Old Bazaar Street, Nuwara Eliya, Central Province
Listings update over time — confirm availability before you book.
Frequently asked questions
Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.
How many days do you need in Nawalapitiya?
Most travelers spend about 5-7 days days in Nawalapitiya, Sri Lanka.
When is the best time to visit Nawalapitiya?
High season is typically December to February.
Which months are more budget-friendly in Nawalapitiya?
Travelers often find better value in April, May, September, October.
What kind of trip is Nawalapitiya good for?
Nawalapitiya suits Nature and Wildlife, Historical Sites, Tea Plantations, Waterfalls.
Is Nawalapitiya walkable?
Sights are more spread out — plan transport between stops.
Any local tips for Nawalapitiya?
Try the famous Ceylon tea in Nawalapitiya
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