The lush green mountains in Nuwara Eliya have captivated our hearts for decades. Their enchanting charm is indeed so beautiful. Sri Lanka is a land embellished with natural beauty and the green hills have always beckoned us with a deep sense of adventure. Exploring nature is a rewarding experience.
Nuwara Eliya is a travel destination that has attracted foreign tourists for decades, who appreciate its unique vintage buildings cast against the misty mountains. If one loves nature, then a hill station will be the best place to visit and surrender yourself to nature. A scenic, a mist dominated region, Nuwara Eliya comes alive with emerald peaks, hillsides carpeted with tea plantations and waterfalls cascading down with inspiring grace. Vintage English cottages complete with roses complete the mesmerising appeal of this region.
Great opportunities
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath opens ‘Eagle’s Viewpoint’ Pix by Sulochana Gamage
Tourism offers great opportunities for emerging economies and developing countries. It creates jobs, strengthens the local economy, and contributes to local infrastructure development. This can be achieved, in particular, if local people are able to benefit from the income opportunities arising from tourism. People’s decisions on where to travel depend greatly on their personal view of the overall situation at a given destination. Sustainable tourism is based on a long-term perspective. It adheres to ethical principles and is geared towards respect for cultural differences, environmental responsibility and economic benefits.
Sri Lanka Air Force opened the Nuwara Eliya Shanthipura ‘Eagle’s Viewpoint’ (on January 26, 2025), which is set to welcome local and foreign tourists-who desire to enjoy nature. Nestled at the top of Shanthipura village, the highest village in Sri Lanka, at an elevation of 7,339 feet above sea level in the Nuwara Eliya district, this new attraction was opened under the auspices of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, the chief guest.
The outgoing Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa, also participated. The establishment of the ‘Eagle’s Viewpoint’ aligns with the Government’s broader strategy to position Sri Lanka as a leading destination for tourists, thereby fostering the growth of the tourism industry to benefit the local economy. The project, which commenced 31 July 2024, was conceptualised and completed with diligence by the Sri Lanka Air Force, with financial support from the Tourism Development Authority.
SLAF personnel worked hard with commitment to complete this much needed project, which will enhance the tourism appeal of Nuwara Eliya. The majestic observation deck and tower was prudently designed by Air Force architects. SLAF crews worked with much effort to make this tower a reality for all Sri Lankans. One level of the tower has a modern coffee shop, with a cozy setting to unwind and relax.
Minister Herath inspects the facility
From this viewpoint, visitors can enjoy splendid views of the Uva Province, Nuwara Eliya city, Pidurutalagala, Haggala, Gregory Lake, Kikiliamana Mountain, Adam’s peak and the Sapthakanya Mountain range showcasing the natural beauty of the region. Mountains are important for sustaining life on Earth because they provide water, food, energy, and biodiversity. They are also a vital part of our climate systems and cultural heritage. They are often viewed as sacred sites and have inspired legends and rituals. This cultural heritage enriches our understanding of human history and spirituality.
The event was attended by Government and corporate officials, representatives from the Tourism Development Authority, Chief of Staff, Members of the Air Force Board of Management and other Air Force personnel, amidst a crowd of happy local residents. I spoke to the local residents-including schoolchildren who were very happy that this tower was in their village, giving the village an uplift in many ways.
Tourism creates a source of pride for local communities and their traditions. As awareness of global warming and carbon footprints grow, ecotourism is becoming increasingly popular, particularly among younger travellers. People want to explore and experience new places, without feeling that their presence is damaging. Tourism is a significant driver of economic prosperity as it contributes to job creation and spurs innovation and investments. SLAF has done a worthy mission and contributed to nation building.
Happening venue
The lush, green landscape of the Hill Country took over the scene fast and I spent the most beautiful part of the morning watching the hills come alive with wakefulness. From my vantage point, the sight seemed straight out of an imaginary world- a divine sight of natural glory. Nuwara Eliya can boast of a new “happening venue”, for the upcoming April holiday season. The blissful experience from the Eagles Viewpoint at Shanthipura, can rejuvenate your inner self, gently filling your mind with a deeper sense of tranquility. This grand viewpoint is a must visit safe venue, for the entire family.
