Where Is Nanu Oya Located in Sri Lanka?

Nanu Oya (නනු ඔය) is a small town in Sri Lanka's Nuwara Eliya District,  just 8 km from Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as “Little England.”. It is known primarily for its railway station, which acts as a key gateway for travelers heading to Nuwara Eliya and the surrounding tea plantation areas.

Quick Keys About Nanu Oya

1. Where is Nanu Oya Located

Nanu Oya is nestled amidst lush tea plantations and misty hills in the Nuwara Eliya District of the Central Province. It's located just about 8 kilometers (5 miles) from Nuwara Eliya, making it the primary train station serving this popular tourist destination.

2. Why is Nanu Oya Famous?

Train Station

A key stop on Sri Lanka’s Main Line railway, connecting Colombo to Badulla
Famous for the Kandy–Nanu Oya–Ella train ride, one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world.

Gateway to Nuwara Eliya

Nanu Oya serves as the closest station to Nuwara Eliya, just 8 km away, with taxis and tuk-tuks available for the final leg. From Nanu Oya, you can take a taxi or tuk-tuk to Nuwara Eliya (15-20 mins).

3. Famous Things to Do & See in Nanu Oya

• Nanu Oya River: Originates from Pidurutalagala, Sri Lanka’s highest peak, and flows into the Kotmale Oya.
• Glassaugh Falls (Nanu Oya Waterfall): A ~60 m cascading waterfall of 25 steps, visible from the main road or reachable with a short walk (~1–1.5 km) from town or station.
• Colonial charm & hiking: The area features colonial-era buildings and scenic walking trails beneath bridges and through tea fields.
• Tea plantations: Ideal for walks and photography, with panoramic views and fresh mountain air.

Near Nanu Oya

• Visit Nuwara Eliya – Explore tea estates (Pedro Tea Factory), Gregory Lake, and colonial buildings.
• Horton Plains & World’s End – A stunning trekking spot (~1.5-hour drive).
• Ride the Kandy-Ella Train – The stretch from Nanu Oya to Ella offers breathtaking hill country views.

Travel Tips for Nanu Oya

• Best Time to Visit: Dec-May (dry season), but April is great for Nuwara Eliya’s flower festivals.
• Book Train Tickets in Advance: Especially for popular classes like 1st Class Observation Car or 2nd Class Reserved, train tickets on the Main Line (including to/from Nanu Oya) sell out quickly. Book them online or through a local agent well in advance.
• Sit on the Right Side (Colombo to Nanu Oya): For the best views of mountains and valleys when traveling from Colombo/Kandy towards Nanu Oya.
• Sit on the Left Side (Nanu Oya to Ella/Badulla): For equally stunning views if continuing your journey further into the highlands.
• Dress warmly: Especially if traveling during the cooler months or early morning/late evening.

In essence, Nanu Oya serves as a charming and essential transport hub for those wishing to immerse themselves in the stunning beauty of Sri Lanka's tea country.

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