Located in the mountainous Central Province, Nuwara Eliya is a popular holiday destination for both international tourists and local urban dwellers. Located approximately five hours from Colombo, the commercial capital of the country, the area is renowned not just for its breathtaking scenery, but also its cool and pleasant climate; the closest our tropical country will ever get to a winter wonderland. So whether you’re a local or a tourist visiting for some sightseeing, sometimes all one needs to chase the cold away is a glass of wine, or perhaps something a little stronger.
Given below are a few of the city’s best bars, ideal for a night out in the idyllic misty mountains, tucked away in the heart of Sri Lanka.
Lake View Pub
Lak View Pub offers its patrons an authentic lodger experience with its oaky wooden floors and makeshift wooden barrels lining its well-stocked bar. Located at a central point within the town in the Alpine Hotel, the bar is a warm respite from the chilly winds that sweep through the hills and hosts a pool lounge on its spacious second floor. Staying true to its name, the pub does offer a scenic view of the famed Lake Gregory and a variety of affordable pub fare and drinks for all those who grace its welcoming doorstep.
Road Hole Bar
Located within the luxurious Jetwing St. Andrew’s Hotel in Nuwara Eliya, Road Hole Bar is a treasure trove among the bars in the city and is perfect for an indulgent night out. Featuring a range of premium wine, beers and spirits, a drink here is always a classy affair and is ideal if you’re willing to spend a “little bit” of money on a boozy nighttime escapade in this sleepy city. Bonus? the hotel itself is a stunning imitation of a Tudor country house, a visit here guaranteeing a trip back in time. With the aid of your favourite poison, of course.
The Pub
If you’re after a low-key affair, keen to have a quick drink and head off, The Pub is the perfect place for you. Drinks and food here are as novel as the name of this oft packed watering hole, and won’t do too much damage to your wallet if you want to do a rapid round of drinks and a spot of dinner with friends. While it may not be the classiest of places to hit up, The Pub lives up to its name and provides a clean and friendly space to do some quick catching up. With the atmosphere of a British pub, this pub offers a variety of local and international beers and spirits that can do you good on chilly evenings in Nuwara Eliya.
Hotel Bars
Given that nightlife in Nuwara Eliya isn’t as lively as that in urban hubs such as Colombo, there are regrettably not too many standalone pubs in the city. Fortunately, most upscale hotels and inns in the area do have their own bars, which you can hit up for a relaxed night out for dinner and drinks for moderate prices.
Hotel Oak Ray is one such hotel, the in-house bar offering its patrons the traditional range of spirits and pub fare. Windsor Hotel is also a safe option and a good pick if you’re in the mood for a quick round of drinks in the city. 19th Hole Bar, located in the colonial and centrally located Hotel Glendower, is a good bet if you’re game for a lively ambience along with your bites and beverages.
Need more information? Feel free to get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to provide you with what you need. Check out the sections below for more places to visit and things to do in misty Nuwara Eliya.