Nuwara Eliya: Golf in the Hill Country

Experience golf in Sri Lanka's tea country, where colonial charm meets stunning mountain scenery and cool climate.

December 20, 2023

By Angela

The Little England of Sri Lanka

Nuwara Eliya sits at 1,900 metres above sea level in Sri Lanka's central highlands, earning it the nickname "Little England" from the British colonists who built it as a hill station retreat. The cool climate, manicured gardens, and colonial architecture create an atmosphere quite unlike any other part of Sri Lanka. For golfers, it offers one of the most extraordinary and memorable rounds available anywhere in Asia.

Nuwara Eliya Golf Club: A Course with History

Founded in 1889, the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club is among the oldest in Asia. The 18-hole course unfolds across undulating terrain at high altitude, surrounded by pine trees and bordered by the picturesque Nuwara Eliya Lake. Morning mists often roll across the fairways, creating an ethereal atmosphere that golf photographers dream of. The course plays firm and fast in dry conditions, but the ever-present chance of afternoon showers keeps strategy interesting.

Playing the Course: What to Expect

The altitude at Nuwara Eliya means the ball travels noticeably further than at sea level — a welcome surprise for most golfers. The greens are well-maintained and feature subtle breaks that reward careful reading. The par-3 holes are particularly memorable, with several featuring dramatic drops or carries over natural hazards. The course is walkable, and carrying your own bag in the cool mountain air is thoroughly enjoyable.

Beyond Golf: Exploring Tea Country

Nuwara Eliya sits at the heart of Sri Lanka's tea producing region. A visit to a working tea estate — including a guided factory tour and tasting session — is an essential complement to your golf round. The Pedro Tea Estate and Mackwoods Labookellie are both close to the golf club and offer fascinating insights into the tea production process. The drive through tea-covered hillsides between venues is spectacular in its own right.

Getting There and Where to Stay

The journey from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya takes approximately four to five hours by road through increasingly dramatic mountain scenery. Alternatively, the train journey from Kandy to Nanu Oya (the nearest station to Nuwara Eliya) is widely regarded as one of the world's most beautiful rail routes. I recommend staying for at least two nights to enjoy a leisurely round of golf alongside broader exploration of the surrounding landscape.

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