Galway's Land National Park

Nuwara Eliya


One of Sri Lanka's newest (2006) and smallest (29 sq hectares) national parks, Galway's Land is a dense patch of montane forest a couple of kilometres east of town. It is renowned for its birdlife, including 10 Sri Lankan endemics, as well as buffalo, wild boar, barking deer and other mammals. There's very little on-site information, but guides are available (by donation) from the park office and a 2km-long walking trail also leaves from here.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Nuwara Eliya attractions

1. Victoria Park

0.65 MILES

This is one of the country's most attractive, and best-maintained, town parks. A stroll around its paths, past manicured lawns, is a pleasure. The park…

2. Buddhist Temple

0.75 MILES

Located just south of Victoria Park, this temple has a small white stupa.

3. Lake Gregory

0.94 MILES

This lake is popular with domestic tourists who enjoy strolling the footpaths, taking out a swan-shaped pedal boat (30 minutes Rs 500) or trotting around…

4. Lovers Leap

0.95 MILES

From the Pedro Tea Estate, take a very enjoyable 5km (round-trip) walk to Lovers Leap, an impressive waterfall.

5. Pedro Tea Estate

1.25 MILES

To see where your morning cuppa originates, head to the Pedro Tea Estate, about 3.5km east of Nuwara Eliya on the way to Kandapola. You can take a 20…

6. Seetha Amman Temple

3.19 MILES

This colourful Hindu temple, 7km southeast of Nuwara Eliya, is said to mark the spot where Sita was held captive by the demon king Rawana, and where she…

7. Hakgala Gardens

4.5 MILES

These attractive gardens, 10km southeast of Nuwara Eliya, are a peaceful retreat. Highlights include a fine rose garden, a Japanese garden, an orchid…

8. Mackwoods Labookellie Tea Factory

5.07 MILES

On the A5, 11km northwest of Nuwara Eliya, the Labookellie Tea Factory is a convenient factory to visit as it’s right on the roadside. Its tours are very…