Discover Ella Sri Lanka – The Ultimate Hill Country Paradise
Explore Ella Sri Lanka, a breathtaking hill country destination filled with tea plantations, waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints. Discover top attractions and travel tips for your Ella adventure.
Ella Sri Lanka – The Hidden Gem of the Hill Country
Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country, Ella Sri Lanka is a charming mountain village that captures the hearts of travelers with its misty hills, cascading waterfalls, lush tea plantations, and laid-back atmosphere. Often called the “paradise of nature lovers,” Ella offers a perfect escape for those seeking both adventure and relaxation in the cool highlands of the island.
Whether you’re hiking to breathtaking viewpoints, sipping freshly brewed Ceylon tea, or watching the famous train pass over Nine Arches Bridge, Ella Sri Lanka is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences.
Why Visit Ella Sri Lanka?
Ella is a place where nature, culture, and serenity come together. Located about 200 km from Colombo and around 1,041 meters above sea level, Ella enjoys a cool climate throughout the year. The town is surrounded by stunning green landscapes and tea estates that make it one of the most scenic destinations in Sri Lanka.
Travelers from all over the world visit Ella Sri Lanka for its peaceful vibe, breathtaking hikes, friendly locals, and its unique combination of relaxation and adventure.
Top Attractions in Ella Sri Lanka
1. Nine Arches Bridge – The Iconic Landmark
The Nine Arches Bridge, also known as the “Bridge in the Sky,” is one of the most photographed spots in Ella Sri Lanka. Built during the British colonial period, this beautiful stone bridge connects the railway between Ella and Demodara.
Watching the blue train curve gracefully over the arches amidst the misty hills is a sight you’ll never forget. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and the scenery magical.
2. Little Adam’s Peak – A Hiker’s Delight
For those who love hiking but prefer something not too challenging, Little Adam’s Peak is the perfect trail. The hike takes around 30 to 45 minutes, leading to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking lush valleys, tea plantations, and distant mountain peaks.
The sunrise and sunset views from the top are simply spectacular, making it one of the must-do activities in Ella Sri Lanka.
3. Ella Rock – The Ultimate Adventure
For a more adventurous trek, head to Ella Rock. The hike is about 8 km round trip and takes around 2 to 3 hours depending on your pace. The journey passes through railway tracks, tea fields, and forests, rewarding you with breathtaking views from the summit.
It’s best to start early in the morning to enjoy the cool air and clear views before the clouds roll in.
4. Ravana Falls – The Natural Wonder
Just a short drive from the town center, Ravana Falls is one of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka. The water cascades dramatically down the rocky cliffs, creating a refreshing mist and a great photo opportunity.
During the rainy season, the falls are at their most powerful. According to legend, the waterfall is named after King Ravana from the epic Ramayana, who is said to have hidden Princess Sita in the nearby Ravana Cave.
5. Ravana Cave – A Historical Legend
Located close to Ravana Falls, the Ravana Cave is an ancient site linked to the story of King Ravana. Archaeologists have found evidence suggesting the cave dates back over 2,000 years. Climbing up to the cave gives visitors not only a touch of myth and history but also lovely views of Ella’s landscape.
6. Tea Plantations and Factories
Ella is surrounded by lush tea plantations, part of Sri Lanka’s world-famous Ceylon tea industry. A visit to a local tea factory, such as Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory, gives you a chance to see the tea-making process from leaf to cup. You can also taste freshly brewed tea while enjoying scenic mountain views.
7. Demodara Loop – The Railway Marvel
The Demodara Loop, located a short distance from Ella, is an engineering marvel of the British era. The train line makes a full loop under itself through a tunnel before emerging above — a fascinating sight for train lovers and photographers alike.
Things to Do in Ella Sri Lanka
Apart from sightseeing, Ella Sri Lanka offers plenty of relaxing and adventurous activities:
-
Enjoy a scenic train ride: The journey from Kandy to Ella is often called the most beautiful train ride in the world.
-
Take a cooking class: Learn to cook traditional Sri Lankan dishes using local spices.
-
Visit Diyaluma Falls: The second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka, perfect for hiking and natural swimming pools.
-
Explore the village: Walk through the peaceful town, visit cafes, and meet friendly locals.
-
Relax at cafes: Popular spots like Café Chill offer good food, music, and relaxing vibes after a long day of exploring.
Best Time to Visit Ella Sri Lanka
The best time to visit Ella Sri Lanka is between December and March, when the weather is dry, and skies are clear. This period offers the best conditions for hiking and sightseeing. However, Ella’s cool mountain climate makes it a pleasant destination year-round.
How to Reach Ella Sri Lanka
There are several ways to reach Ella:
-
By Train: The scenic train ride from Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, or Colombo is the most popular option, offering breathtaking views of tea estates, mountains, and villages.
-
By Car or Taxi: You can also reach Ella by private car or taxi, which is more flexible and comfortable, especially for families or groups.
-
By Bus: Budget travelers can take intercity buses to Badulla or Bandarawela and then a short ride to Ella.
Where to Stay in Ella Sri Lanka
Ella offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets — from luxury boutique hotels to cozy homestays. Popular choices include:
-
98 Acres Resort & Spa – Luxury eco-friendly resort with stunning views.
-
Ella Flower Garden Resort – Beautiful rooms overlooking Ella Gap.
-
Hangover Hostels – Perfect for backpackers and solo travelers.
-
Zion View Ella Green Retreat – A scenic spot for couples and families.
Ella Sri Lanka is truly a magical destination — a place where you can breathe in the fresh mountain air, walk among tea-covered hills, chase waterfalls, and connect with the beauty of nature. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, Ella offers something special for everyone.
From the mesmerizing Nine Arches Bridge to the adventurous Ella Rock, and from tranquil tea gardens to local hospitality, Ella will remain one of the most unforgettable highlights of your Sri Lanka journey.
So, pack your bags and let the charm of Ella Sri Lanka capture your heart!
