If you’re looking to enjoy some peace and quiet while you’re in Nuwara Eliya, be sure to visit the famed Victoria Park. Here you can take a stroll through the gardens, admire the scenery and take it easy for a couple of blissful hours.
This massive park complex was originally created for the ruling British elite to come and relax in. Following the first few years of its establishment, the park was simply referred to as the ‘Marsh”. In the early decades of the 20th century, however, the park was mainly referred to as Victoria Park. This is mainly attributed to the rising popularity of Queen Victoria herself, along with the many celebrations held in her honour at the location.
Nowadays, the park is open to all visitors and is lauded as one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful and well-maintained parks. If at all possible, try to visit the park during the periods from March to May and August to September. During these time frames, the tree and shrubs of the park tend to blossom with flowers adding a wondrous display of colour and a soothing aroma to the premises.
Victoria Park is also a great place for a spot of birdwatching. A variety of endemic bird species – some of which are found only in the central highlands – tend to frequent the park. So bring your binoculars and keep your eyes peeled for these feathery denizens.