The RoyalTurf Club

In addition to functioning as a mountain getaway for former British planters, Nuwara Eliya also became a popular holiday destination for the families of the resident colonials. This meant that the town was designed to hold sporting and social events for the entertainment of the holidaying families.

The British were fond of horse racing, and didn’t take long to introduce it to Ceylon. The Race Course Track in Nuwara Eliya still stands as a testament to colonial traditions, as the Royal Turf Club, established in 1897, still hosts a number of prestigious cups, such as the Governor’s Cup in the festive month of April. It is the only remaining horse racing venue in the country. The lush race course, surrounded by the magnificent views of the hill country, is definitely a beautiful place to visit.