Things to Do in Ella, Sri Lanka: A Complete Travel Guide
Hidden in Sri Lanka’s cozy, lush hill country, Ella is a small town that has a lot to offer, from scenic beauties to experiences of a lifetime.
The town is hugged by cold, misty mountains, tea plantations, and sparkling waterfalls, and is a real zen escape from the country’s buzzing beaches and jam-packed tourist destinations.
If you’re a traveler looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, then Ella’s crispy, cool, and clean mountain air, along with its panoramic views, is what you need.
There’s so much to indulge in from trekking along hillsides, to sipping freshly brewed Ceylon tea beside tea estates, and catching a sunrise over the Nine Arch Bridge – whatever it is, these experiences at Ella will stay with you for a while.
If you’re planning to make the most of Ella, keep reading this guide, which has everything you will want to know, from the perfect hiking trails, hidden waterfalls, scenic train rides, local gastronomical experiences, and of course, practical travel tips.
Why Ella Belongs on Your Sri Lanka Itinerary
Ella is the epitome of Sri Lanka’s hill country – it’s got the perfect postcard views with a slow-paced vibe that most travelers look for after heavy, long trips.
This small town stands about 1040 m above sea level, and for its size, it can still bring you the tranquility you cannot find in the island’s warm coastal zones and busy cities. Here’s why Ella is a must in your Sri Lanka travel itinerary:
Breathtaking Scenic Views
One thing about Ella landscapes is that they will not bore you. From plantations that shroud hills to cool forests that hang onto ridges, and plunging valleys that reveal infinite views – Ella has what it takes to please your eyes.
If you catch a sunrise, you won’t miss how mist floats like silver streaks over smooth mountains, and by afternoon, you will notice how the warm light touches the peaks, giving them a soft glow. Sounds heavenly, doesn’t it?
There’s more where that came from, from iconic viewpoints such as Little Adam’s Peak, Ella Rock, and the famous Nine Arch Bridge show panoramas that give Europe’s top alpine vistas a run for their money – but with, of course, a dash of tropical flair.
A Relaxed, Slow-Paced Atmosphere
If you want to take a break from the city bustle and crowded beach scene, then Ella is your solution. Here, cafés don’t face the beach, but they do light up silent streets, and friendly locals are always about for a small chat – there’s community and comfort knit together amongst these misty hills.
You can sit back and sip a hot cup of fresh Ceylon tea while waterfalls hum around you and trains roll around and across the hills.
Most travelers find Ella a cozy pitstop to snuggle into before exploring other locations across the country.
A Perfect Mix of Adventure and Comfort
Ella has the perfect balance between:
- Adventure – Picturesque hikes, secret waterfalls to explore, and popular train rides that give opportunity for tonnes of exploration and adventure.
- Comfort – You can find comfort in a range of cozy boutique hotels, eco-lodges, and stunning guesthouses that give you views of mountains and waterfalls. At Ella, you can get down and dirty on a morning trek, then indulge in a rich spa session, followed by a steaming cup of latte at a hip café – no compromise on comfort even though you’re this close to nature.
Whatever you’re into, whether it's going for the perfect nature photography, searching for a chill mountain breeze, or simply needing a serene haven to relax, Ella is a combo of natural beauty and soft charm – but it's anything but boring because Ella is here to give you an unforgettable experience in Sri Lanka.
Best Time to Visit Ella
Ella has its golden moments, so you need to time your journey according to the gorgeous changes of the season to make the most of your trip.
High Season (December – March):
This is the best time to visit Ella. During this season, the weather is dry but cool, which is the ideal temperature for hikes, sightseeing, and exploring tea plantations.
With dry weather comes clear skies, which give you undisturbed panoramic views of the mountains, valleys, and sunrise or sunset hikes that give you ample opportunity for some great snapshots.
Due to brilliant visibility during this season, it's also known as the perfect time for scenic train rides.
Shoulder Seasons (April-May, September-October):
Visiting Ella during the shoulder seasons comes with its own benefits. This is the time when the hills are bright green and most lush, waterfalls are gushing, and the landscapes are speckled with dew after those small tropical showers.
The crowd is also a lot lesser compared to high season, which makes your hikes, viewpoints, and café visits more calm and peaceful. It's advisable to look out for the occasional downpour; however, they pass quickly and add a bit of a mystical vibe to the hills.
Tip for Foreign Travelers:
During the colder months, evenings in Ella can be freezing, especially after a hike. Remember to pack a light jacket or sweater, and layers to stay comfortable and cozy in case the rain pours or the temperature falls. Comfy, sturdy walking shoes and a hat for sun protection are a must for daytime hikes.
Top Outdoor Adventures in Ella
If you’re an outdoor adventure enthusiast, then Ella is heaven. From scenic hikes, visits to famous landmarks, and evergreen landscapes that make each step better than the last.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual adventurer looking for a new experience, as always, Ella has something for everyone.
Little Adam’s Peak
As the name suggests, Little Adam’s Peak is a smaller, more gentle hike that takes around 30-45 minutes to climb all the way to the summit. This hike works well for hikers of all levels starting from beginners to intermediate, which makes this a great warm-up hike for the rest of your Ella adventure.
The Little Adam’s Peak trail will take you past lush tea plantations, quiet villages, and bamboo groves with soft streams that trickle on the sides and friendly locals who bring a bit of company to the journey.
Once you reach the top, you’ll find that the climb was well worth the expansive 360-degree view of the surrounding valleys, mountains, and the low hum of waterfalls in the distance, and if you’re on time, you may catch a breathtaking sunset or sunrise. This is a location you cannot forget your camera, as it's titled as one of the most photographed places in the region.
Ella Rock
If you’re looking for adventure with high stakes, then Ella Rock is for you. This 4-hour trek (round-trip) takes you through thick, winding forests, tea estates, and jagged mountain paths, which is sure to keep your heart racing.
This trail comes with steep edges and slippery surfaces, so it's best to do this one with a local guide by your side for extra safety measures and to point out secret view points as you go.
At the summit, you can feast your eyes upon one of the most beautiful panoramas in Sri Lanka, which includes a wave of rolling hills, misty peaks, and patchwork tea plantations that unfold under clear blue skies.
This hike is all about perfect timing – if you set off early morning or late afternoon, you will get to experience soft lighting, cool temperatures, and the best tone for photography – not to mention peace.
Nine Arch Bridge
Known as one of Ella’s trademark locations – the Nine Arch Bridge, also referred to as the Bridge in the Sky, is an iconic railway structure built during the British Colonial rule in 1921. It runs above Ella’s dense forests and tea plantations, spouting smoke into the air, making it one of the most iconic favorites for photographers and train enthusiasts everywhere.
Time your visit to the bridge to coincide with a passing train, as this will give you a cinematic photography opportunity with the diesel engine crossing the arches.
It's also a very quick walk to the bridge on the path leading to it, and the surrounding area is filled with many vantage points that make great spots for pictures of the bridge and the beauty of nature beyond.
Your best time to visit the Nine Arch Bridge is early mornings or late afternoons, when you can easily avoid the crowd and capture the mythical mist of those hills around.
Waterfall Wonders
Some of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful and famous waterfalls belong to Ella. Whether you’re on a ride or a relaxing stroll, waterfalls are unmissable in Ella.
Ravana Falls
All it takes is a very short tuk-tuk ride from the town center to Ravana Falls. Being one of the most iconic and accessible waterfalls in Ella, this waterfall drops about 25 meters into a rocky pool, creating a bloom of mist around it.
During heavy rainfall, the waterfall is a majestic sight as it rushes down with a powerful force. Travelers can take a walk around the trails, snap photos from many viewpoints, and even dip into the shallow pools at the bottom.
There is lore around this waterfall, as there is with many Sri Lankan locations, and this waterfall is titled after King Ravana from the famous and ancient Ramayana epic, which adds a dash of cultural twist to your trip.
Diyaluma Falls
If you’re up for a bit of a ride, you can find Diyaluma Falls, which is another must-see waterfall. It’s recorded as Sri Lanka’s second-highest waterfall, with a drop of 220 meters across a number of tiers into gorgeous natural pools.
You can even take a spontaneous day trip from Ella to Diyaluma, then stop by and swim in natural pools, hike cliff-top trails, and dip in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and tea plantations.
The environment around Diyaluma Falls is a lot quieter than Ravana Falls, which makes it perfect for travelers who are looking for a bit of peace and quiet in nature.
For photographers, Diyaluma is a portal for some of the best pictures, surrounded by cascading streams of water, hugged by dense greenery, and the cinematic backdrop of the Central Highlands.
Tea Country Experiences
Situated at the heart of Sri Lanka’s Uva Province, Ella is mostly popular for its tea. You can never get enough of the mounds of green tea plantations that hug the town, which is a win for both nature lovers and photographers.
With tea plantations come tea factories, so you cannot miss out on visits to local tea factories such as the Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory. If you’ve ever been curious about the tea production process, a tea factory will show you everything you need to know, from plucking of tea leaves to withering, rolling, and drying.
Well-educated guides on the art of tea making will tell you about the nuances that make the Ceylon tea world stand out from the rest of Asia- and what’s more, you will get to taste samples of freshly brewed warm teas right from the source. A tea factory in Ella will introduce you to authentic, rich flavours of tea that reflect the real taste of Sri Lanka’s heritage.
Apart from the tea factory, even a walk around the tea plantations can give you a tranquil, magical experience. From walking down narrow, winding paths that are flanked by tea bushes, to capturing breathtaking photos and meeting tea pluckers who readily share warm smiles, there’s a lot that tea plantations in Ella can offer.
Tip: Travelers have pointed out that some of their most memorable strolls through the tea plantations of Ella were during sunrise or sunset.
Scenic Train Journeys
The Ella train journey through Sri Lanka’s picturesque hill country is titled as one of the world’s most scenic rail rides- that means you cannot miss it for the world.
This Kandy-Ella rail route takes you through tea plantations, misty mountains, lush forests, and quaint villages, giving travelers much to look at and sink into the wonder of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.
The train also passed through over 80 tunnels and many bridges that offer perfect viewpoints for good photography.
If you want to feel that cool mountain air on your skin and through your hair, then booking second-class reserved seats, which come with open doors and windows, is recommended. Some of the essentials you need to carry on this train ride are a light jacket to tackle the cool breeze and a camera.
However, if you’re on a time crunch, begin your journey from Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya station), which is much closer to Ella. This route will still give you views of those majestic landscapes of the hill country, but the only difference is that it’s a bit shorter than the Kandy-Ella ride.
It is a known fact that the train ride in Ella is more about the journey than the destination due to its immense scenic beauty, cultural insight, and local flair. You get to take in everything you pass on that train ride from tea pluckers in the fields, to waving at children in the villages on either side, and taking glances at those hidden waterfalls – this train journey is remarkable and serves as a real highlight for foreign travelers in Sri Lanka.
Relax & Rejuvenate
Ella’s hill terrains may seem like an adventurer’s slice of heaven, but it also has the opportunity to take it slow and unwind in peace. The town already comes with a quiet atmosphere that is shrouded with misty mountains and tea plantations, which creates the perfect spot for relaxation and wellness.
If you’re after a more soulful, spiritual experience, Ella has some popular yoga studios and meditation retreats that might have what you’re looking for.
Most of these retreats are burrowed in the hills and tea estate resorts, which gives you a wonderful opportunity to take in all the peace of nature’s best while you relax in your yoga or meditation session.
If you can score a session during a sunrise, then it's even better, not to mention magical!
If you’re after something a bit more lux and lavish, then boutique spas around Ella readily offer Ayurvedic treatments, massages, and wellness therapies. These spas are careful with their products and processes, with herb oils sourced locally, these treatments are curated to satisfy both your body and desire for a unique cultural experience. Some spas have the option of an open-air massage pavilion that gives you unrestricted views of Ella’s iconic natural beauty, which is great for an afternoon of relaxation.
After a pumping hike up Ella Rock or an adrenaline-spiked exploration of waterfalls, a yoga session or spa treatment is the best way to connect with your soul and body, soften up sore muscles, and drink in Ella’s unique atmosphere.
Including these wellness and relaxing experiences in your Ella itinerary definitely adds a lot of much-needed serenity and peace to your journey.
Cultural & Culinary Highlights
While Ella is known for its stunning views, that’s not all this small town is known for. Ella has a track record for offering fresh and flavourful culinary experiences from the local cuisine. As a traveler, what better way to connect with the local life than to indulge in its local flavours?
Food to Try
If you’re ever in Ella, these are some local traditional dishes you must try: starting with hoppers (appa), a crispy-edged, bowl-shaped pancake that is served with a spicy curry, spicy chilly sambal (katta sambol), or egg. Along that same line, you will string hoppers, which a soft steamed rice noodles paired well with coconut sambal and curry.
If you’re looking for something more hearty and filling, you can always try kottu roti, one of Sri Lanka’s famous street foods, which includes a spicy stir-fry of chopped roti strips, vegetables, eggs, or meat.
For a sweet treat, one of the must-try authentic desserts is a bowl of buffalo curd topped with palm treacle, which is a popular favorite among the locals.
You can wash it all down with a steaming cup of freshly brewed Ceylon tea right from a nearby plantation, and you can confidently say you’ve done right by the Ella culinary experience!
Cooking Classes
If you’re eager to pick up some of the art behind Sri Lankan cuisine and add a few recipes to your own culinary arsenal, then there’s an array of local cooking classes in Ella that offer you hands-on experiences.
With the support and guidance of friendly local chefs or even locals from villages, you are in good hands to whip up authentic curries, sambals, and snacks using fresh, farm-to-table ingredients.
These cooking classes are anything but boring as they allow you a fun opportunity to interact with the local community, culture, and leave with some stellar cooking skills and recipes to wow your friends and family back home.
Local Markets
There’s so much to experience in the local market in Ella. From fresh. Fruits, spices, teas, and locally handcrafted goods – there’s something for everyone. That’s not it, when walking through these vibrant, buzzing markets, travelers have the opportunity to learn so much from local vendors on regional produce and grab some souvenirs.
Some sensory teasers from these markets are the sweet, spicy smell of cinnamon sticks, chilli powders, and tropical fruits like mangosteen and rambutan.
When you bring together the culinary beauty of food, cooking, and the cultural flavour of local markets, Ella gives you a full Sri Lankan hill country experience that stands out against its natural aura.
Where to Stay in Ella
With Ella being one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic locations, there has been no shortage of accommodations that offer great views plus service. There’s a list of options in Ella that has something for budget travelers, mid-range explorers, and luxury seekers.
Budget Options
If you’re looking for something affordable but still cute and charming, the guesthouse options near the railway station are your best bet.
These cozy houses give you comfortable rooms, friendly hosts, and communal spaces where you can get to know other fellow travelers. Some of the plus points of staying near the station are that you can easily hop on the scenic Kandy-Ella train, discover nearby boutique cafes, and take tuk-tuks to nearby attractions such as Ravana Falls. Most of these budget guesthouses come with simple yet decent breakfast options, which makes these accommodations ideal for travelers on a tight budget.
Mid-Range Options
Now, if you’re looking to indulge in a bit of comfort and style, Ella has got a neat collection of boutique hotels lined up.
These boutique hotels come with private balconies or terraces with panoramic mountain and tea plantation views, new amenities, and warm common areas to snuggle up and relax.
If you go a bit higher, you come to mid-range hotels that offer in-house restaurants, spa services, or yoga sessions that hit the sweet spot between adventure and indulgence.
Boutique hotels allow you to enjoy beautiful surroundings and stay close to all of Ella’s main attractions, which is ideal for couples, solo travelers, and small families.
Luxury Options
Want to splurge on your Ella trip? We’ve got options for an immersive and indulgent experience. From eco-lodges and private villas nestled within tea estates that give you all the privacy and access to amazing vistas, and lux amenities such as infinity pools, private terraces, and customized services.
These private properties are famous for romantic getaways, honeymoons, or a peaceful retreat. A lot of these luxury options offer well-rounded experiences such as guided hikes, tea plantation tours, and wellness treatments, which give you the perfect combo of relaxation and adventure in a stunning atmosphere.
Whatever budget you’re settling for, one thing Ella offers all travelers is free access to cold, misty mountains, sunrise views over tea plantations, and a chance to sink into the serene charm of Sri Lanka’s hill country. But choosing the accommodation that fits your budget and lifestyle makes everything even better.
Practical Travel Tips for Foreign Visitors
With the right travel plan and timing for local events, Ella can be one of your top travel experiences in Sri Lanka.
Here are a few practical tips you can follow so that you can have a hitch-free, smooth trip:
Visa & Entry
All travelers coming into Sri Lanka should possess an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arrival. You can obtain this through an easy online process via the official Sri Lankan government website.
Your ETA is usually approved within 24-48 hours, andit'ss valid for stays between 30 to 90 days based on your nationality.
Tip: For all foreigners travelling to Sri Lanka, it would be best if you can carry a printed copy of your ETA and a valid passport of at least six months’ validity, since there is a chance immigration officers may request it on arrival.
Currency & Payments
Sri Lanka’s local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). A lot of hotels. Restaurants and other large shops accept credit cards; however, some small eateries, local markets, and tuk-tuk drivers usually prefer cash payments. While Ella town has ATMs, we advise you to carry cash with you when exploring remote locations.
For extra safety measures, go for ATMs that are put up inside banks, and try not to exchange money outside on the street.
Transport & Getting Around
Ella has an endless supply of tuk-tuks, as it’s the main and most common mode of transport in the area. Tuk-tuks are the most convenient mode of transport in Ella for you, as they're quick and budget-friendly. Plus, local tuk drivers are familiar with the main attractions in Ella, such as Ravana Falls, Nine Arch Bridge, and tea plantations – so you’re unlikely to get lost.
If you’re setting off on longer trips, such as to Diyaluma Falls or Lipton’s Seat, it’s best if you can hire a private cab service for the day. This would be more convenient, safe, and budget-friendly, especially when travelling in groups.
However, if you’re more spirited, then walking or cycling to nearby sights is also an adventure in itself, as you can enjoy the scenery at a more gentle pace, and it also means more photographs!
Packing Essentials
While Ella’s climate is a lot cooler than the coastal regions, it doesn’t mean you can’t expect unpredictable weather.
Don’t forget to carry these with you:
- For daytime hikes and cooler evenings, wear light layers.
- A rain jacket or a poncho is a must, especially if your trip is scheduled for the shoulder season (April – May, September – October).
- Supportive, sturdy shoes for walking and hiking trails, waterfalls, and rugged paths.
- Mosquito/bug repellent sprays or salves for early morning or late afternoon walks.
- Rather than buying plastic water bottles, try to stick to a reusable water bottle. That way, you can stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
- Sun protection kit (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat) for use during hikes and walks.
Extra Tips
- Health & Safety: Stay hydrated with bottled or filtered water and always avoid the consumption of ice from unknown sources.
- Local etiquette: Stick to modest attire when visiting temples and remove shoes when required.
- Connectivity: A lot of guesthouses and cafes offer Wi-Fii; however, mobile and data signals tend to be laggy in rural areas, so best to keep an offline map ready before your journey.
With these extra practical tips, you can stay safe and stress-free and have a memorable cultural experience, outdoor adventures, and a peaceful view of Ella’s majestic landscapes.
Plan Your Ella Adventure with Tourstro
Looking for a cozy small town in the hills to get away from the bustle and indulge in tranquility? Then Ella’s clean, cool climate and lush hillside landscapes are the remedy you’re after.
Whether it’s a quick stop for two days or a lavish week, Ella has all the experiences from hikes, waterfalls to explore, tea plantation experiences, and a warm hospitality to keep you cozy and content even long after your journey.
Got your bags packed? Let's explore! Get your customized Ella itinerary with Tourstro and let our team of local tour experts curate the Ella tour of your dreams.