The Holy Trinity Church in Nuwara Eliya, located in the breathtaking highlands of Numare Eliya, is a marvellous edifice. It is one of the finest examples of British colonial-era architecture, with Gothic and Tudor styles and a stained glass window gifted to the church by Queen Elizabeth II in 1954. The church acts as a place that has tied its people together with its rosary of tenderness and care. With over a century of memories hugging the plastered pillars, the church is a testament to Numare Eliya’s unique tapestry. It has become one of the must-visit places on the Sri Lankan itinerary.
History Of The Holy Trinity Church In Nuwara Eliya
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The foundation of the church was laid in 1845 under the guidance of Major Brunker, the Commandant of Nuwara-Eliya. Nelson is said to have been appointed the chief architect. The estimated cost of construction of the Holy Trinity Church was 900 pounds. In 1880, two enlargements of the church took place. One was the construction of a new church near the old cemetery. The other took place in 1889, for which a marble plaque recording the church’s further construction was seen on the church’s wall.
Queen Elizabeth II of England and her husband, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, also visited the church during their visit to Sri Lanka in 1945. This was her first formal visit to the country after her coronation. During her time here, the Queen gifted the church a stained glass window with biblical imagery. The window is still up on the west end of the church’s wall.
Must Read: Places To Visit In Nuwara Eliya
Architecture Of Trinity Church In Nuwara Eliya
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The church’s exterior is a marvel, with a high spire reaching towards the sky and complex stonework on its walls. Two large bell towers at the main entrance have bells ringing during services or special occasions. As the place was colonised by tea plantation owners from Britain and Scotland, their style of structural influence is evident in the pale white walls and saltbox-shaped rooftops.
Walking into Holy Trinity Church is like stepping into a shrine, where architectural grandeur meets the holiness of the ambience. It is a tranquil feeling of calm and quiet amidst the busy, noisy city.
Apart from being an architectural masterpiece, Holy Trinity Church occupies a unique place among residents. Many weddings, christenings, and burial records exist at this church, marking essential stages in the lives of Nuwara Eliya residents. These chimes would echo across hills and valleys as they rang out in joy and sorrow. It is also one of the oldest churches in town, and because of that, it is even more dear to the natives.
Places To Visit Around Nuwara Eliya
From unique weather to picturesque tea plantations, Nuwara Eliya is one of the best places to visit for a holiday. Many travellers from around the globe choose Nuwara Eliya as a place to visit to get a feeling of being at home away from their native countries. Listed below are a few places to visit around the Trinity Church, Nuwara Eliya
1. The Victoria Park, Nuwara Eliya
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Nuwara Eliya post office is next to Victoria Park, a place of great beauty where one can spend a beautiful evening in the city. This park, named Victoria Park Nuwara Eliya, was established in 1897 as part of the commemoration of Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee. It is a perfect location to unwind and find peace during your Sri Lankan trip. The park has several little lakes, which significantly add to its splendour. At this park, you can enjoy picnicking by the lakeside with your family or friends.
Timing: Monday to Friday (9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.)
Entry Fees: INR 300
Suggested Read: Single Tree Hill Nuwara Eliya
2. Lake Gregory, Nuwara Eliya
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Located in Nuwara Eliya, Lake Gregory, also known as Gregory Lake, was constructed in 1873. It is a wetland converted into a beautiful lake. Used for recreational purposes, the lake is visited by many tourists every year, especially during the spring. The lake is located in the heart of the city. It has become a lake park where one can enjoy relaxing picnics with their loved ones.
Timings: Monday to Sunday (8 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
Entry Fees: INR 200
Must-Visit Waterfalls In Nuwara Eliya
After you’ve had a nice stroke in the pretty parks, let me introduce you to Nuwara Eliya’s lovely waterfalls.
1. Pidurutalagala, Nuwara Eliya
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Pidurutalagala is the tallest peak in Sri Lanka, commonly known as Mount Padron. The Pidurutalagala’s estimated height is around 2,524 m. It is easily distinguishable from almost all the areas in the province because of its gigantic height. In collaboration with the military forces, the Government of Sri Lanka has built its communications array on the peak of the waterfall. The communications array contributes to the smooth functioning of Sri Lanka’s radar system. Its role is to maintain communication between military officers in the region. The peak is considered a high-security-risk area, which thus makes the area off-limits for the commoners. Nevertheless, it is a sight to behold. The peak features on every traveller’s wish list. Overlooking the fascinating scenery of Nuwara Eliya, Mount Padron stands tall in its duty to protect its people.
Timings: Monday to Sunday (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Entry Fees: INR 78
Suggested Read: Gregory Lake In Sri Lanka
2. Lovers Leap Waterfall, Nuwara Eliya
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With fantastic city views and tree plantations from the fall, the Lovers Leap Waterfall is a beautiful place to visit in Nuwara Eliya. Whether you take a pleasant stroll in the tea plantations or hike around the waterfall, there is everything for everyone’s little wanderer inner child.
Timing: Monday to Sunday (12:01 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.)
Entry Fee: NA
3. Glen Waterfalls, Nuwara Eliya
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The Glen waterfall originates from the northern side of Single Tree Hill, located in Nuwara Eliya. It is situated at an altitude of 2070 m. It is the second-largest waterfall in Nuwara Eliya and is within walking distance of the city centre. The perennial waterfall cascades down rocks from a towering height of 60–70 m. The perennial falls became a seasonal waterfall after drying up excessively in the early 1990s.
Timings: Monday to Saturday (6 a.m. to 8 p.m.)
Entry Fees: NA
Further Read: Nuwara Eliya Waterfalls
To enjoy a fulfilling trip around the beautiful country of Sri Lanka, you must visit its state-of-the-art churches. Now that you have a list of things to do at this Church Plan your trip to Sri Lanka and explore this fabulous spot for the experience of a lifetime. Don’t miss out on these opportunities; book your tickets now!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Holy Trinity Church In Nuwara Eliya
What are the timings of the Holy Trinity Church, Nuwara Eliya?
The church is open Tuesday to Sunday between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. and is closed on Mondays
Which diocese does the Holy Trinity Church come under?
The church comes under the Diocese of Colombo.
What is the oldest church in Nuwara Eliya?
The Holy Trinity Church is the oldest church in Nuwara Eliya, built-in 1845. The country was colonised by the British during that time, which influenced its architecture.
Is the Holy Trinity Church a Protestant Church?
No, it is an Anglican church and was built under the supervision of the Church of England.
How many days are enough to explore Nuwara Eliya?
Around 2–3 days would be enough to explore the breathtaking highlands of Nuwara Eliya. Being a tea plantation town, it is well known for its tea products.
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